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GLEANINGS FROM THE WORD
Encountering an extraordinary God in ordinary life
Issue #294 October 17, 2001
Christian Bubbles
I met a young man at church this past Sunday. In his late teens, and a former devout atheist, he came to know Christ about two years ago.
Like many, he was intent on disproving the Christian perspective, and to his surprise found that the harder he tried and the more he researched, the more convinced he became that Jesus is real.
He is in the midst of a search to find a church home. He has been visiting a number of congregations and denominations, looking for the right combination of theology, worship style and a place he feels comfortable.
In his search he encountered a number of congregations he did not feel comfortable with due to a phenomenon he called the Christian Bubble. Christian Bubbles are places where the members of the congregation spend all their time at church or with other Christians. They have no desire to have anything to do with non-Christians whatsoever.
His question about these congregations was pointed, but valid, "How in the world does this type of church help tell people about Christ?"
There is a great deal of wisdom in this young mans observations. We are called to fellowship with one another, be supportive of the body and worship together, but we are also called to take the Gospel of Jesus into the world.
[Jesus is speaking] "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Romans 10:14-15 NIV
Perhaps it is time for some serious thought. Are you living in a Christian Bubble?
Until next time, may you follow the commands of our Lord and take His Gospel into all the world.
God bless.
Kevin
Are you like this young man was and convinced Christianity is not real or not valid? Put it to the test. Read God’s Word and check it out yourself. Don’t base your opinion of what Christianity is about on second hand information, or the actions of Christians, go straight to the source. I think you will be surprised if you approach it with an open mind.
If you would like to know more about a relationship with Jesus, email me. I’ll share a few Bible verses that explain why that relationship is so important and a prayer that will make it possible.
To share your thoughts on this issue of Gleanings, or to share prayer concerns email us at corbin_writer@hotmail.com. At Gleanings, we have a dedicated team of prayer warriors and all prayer concerns are kept strictly confidential.
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© 2001 K.F. "Kevin" Corbin
All Rights Reserved
To share your thoughts on this issue of Gleanings, or to share prayer concerns email us at corbin_writer@hotmail.com. At Gleanings, we have a dedicated team of prayer warriors and all prayer concerns are kept strictly confidential.
If you enjoyed this issue of Gleanings From The Word, email it, in its entirety, to a friend. For information on use of Gleanings in your church newsletter or other situations please visit the permissions page on our website http://gleanings.jesusanswers.com
© 2001 K.F. "Kevin" Corbin
All Rights Reserved