13 Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
2 Timothy 1:13-14 ESV
This past week I had the privilege of meeting with several of our pastor friends in Mexico. The purpose was simply to talk about the past year and think about the next. One question we asked was, “What was it about this particular group that attracted you when you first arrived? What drew you back?” There were three things that spoke to these experienced ministers to become part of the group:
- Sound teaching: A commitment to the Scriptures and instruction therein.
- The Power and Person of the Holy Spirit: He is allowed to move, and that move is done in an orderly fashion.
- Real relationships: Commitment and love are not just talked about, but lived out. One lady remarked, “People really cared about our lives.”
Today, we gather in our local churches to worship. I don’t know what brings you back to your church, but I know that those three things bring me back to mine. They are life to me. I love what Paul said to Timothy. Look always for words and places and songs and groups that move you toward faith in God, love for His people, and reliance on the Holy Spirit within you. Let’s have church!
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