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The Weekly Word: The gates of hell shall not prevail

By Pastor Paul and Dixie Phillips, Gospel Lighthouse Church, Floyd

“And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.”

— Ephesians 1:22,23

Have you ever noticed how people search for a perfect church? Some hop from congregation to congregation, hoping to find one without any problems.

Let’s be honest. There is no such thing as a perfect church, because the Body of Christ is made up of broken people.

The famous British pastor, Charles Spurgeon, once shared this story: A man came to him, searching for the perfect church.

The prince of preachers replied, “My church isn’t the one you’re looking for, but if you should happen to find a perfect church, I beg you not to join it, for you would spoil the whole thing.”

Our culture today is increasingly not only secular, but almost anti-Christian. They’ve attacked the foundation of our faith in so many ways.

The church has certainly been attacked this past year. Some churches are still closed. There are numerous congregations in many parts of the country that haven’t been able to reopen since the pandemic started. The church has been hit hard. Pastors are very discouraged.

As a member of a Bible-believing church all my life, I see firsthand how God gave us a wise and marvelous gift in the local church. It is a wonderful place for individuals, families and people of all ages.

It prepares us for eternity and gives us support during difficult times. We can seek and worship the Lord together, study, grow in His grace and knowledge. God has ordained the local church to provide this kind of environment so we can thrive spiritually.

I am very thankful for the local church. Don’t let the enemy rob you of the benefits of belonging to a local congregation.

Think about this: the local church is where some of the most sacred events of our lives have taken place.

Many of us were married in our church sanctuary. We dedicated our children to the Lord in our church. And we have said our final farewell this side of heaven to our loved ones in our local church.

Yes, the church serves as a vital center of every community and has impacted our whole circle of life.

The greatest mission of the local church is to introduce people to a personal relationship with Jesus. He is the life, the truth, and the way. No one comes to God except through Him.

As a local church, we present Jesus in the best light we can as Savior of the world. Jesus brings us purpose, peace of mind, and the promise of eternal life.

The local church has always been and always will be one of the greatest blessings to people all over the world. Be sure to attend and support your local church this weekend.

“… On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”

— Matthew 16:18

 

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