A Gospel Culture from Connections Weekend
This weekend, over 200 people gathered for our fourth annual Connections Weekend. Dr. Scot McKnight, professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, taught the gospel from the scriptures. Although most of us grew up thinking this good news was a plan, the gospel is simply telling people about Jesus. When we share His story, Jesus reveals to them they are sinners, converts them, and saves them. By learning to share the gospel in this way, we create a gospel culture in our church that introduces people to Christ and elevates Jesus’ lifestyle in church and community. We are empowered to go out on mission proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ.
This approach is rooted in scripture through the story of ancient Israel. Through God’s dramatic creation and calling of these people, he prepared the world for its completion in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through the book of Acts and Paul’s letters, these apostles continually “remembered Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel” through their preaching (2 Timothy 2:8). They pointed people to Christ’s life, death, burial, and resurrection. By focusing on Jesus’ life, people were changed—both the people sharing the gospel as well as the people who heard it.
I’m so grateful to Josh Hall. He and his team put together a seamless weekend. Our music staff practiced with our children for the children’s musical. Breakout session leaders taught about how the gospel impacts households, relationships, sexuality, work, the arts, worship, and community. Our church family reconnected to one another and grew together as the body of Christ.
I’ve taken away a few things I want to challenge you to do as I will be doing.
- Recite the Jesus Creed in the morning when you wake up and when you go to bed.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:29-31). I want to try this for lent, and I hope you will do the same. - Reflect in your Kairos journals where Jesus spoke to you. Where did you see and sense the presence of Christ this weekend, and what are you going to do about it?
- Recommit to loving Jesus and each other through action. Love is a rugged commitment that moves us and the recipient toward Christlikeness.
- Remember that Jesus is at work in every person in the world. Keep the focus on the one who’s already working in them. Introduce them to him; he will attract them to himself.
What are you taking away from this weekend?