Hello Church.
Transforming the spiritual climate of Anchorage. You already know Who is that transforming agent. You don’t yet know how he will use you. But be sure, that is his intention.
“… exponentially increase your impact on society… You’re more needed now than ever. Our culture is reeling from the demise of biblical literacy… you’ll find yourself at the epicenter of God’s solution in your own circle of influence. God has designed you uniquely for such a time as this.” Says, Mark Moore in his new book, “Core 52” which claims, in 15 minutes, 5 days a week, in a year “you’ll know the vast majority of what every preacher preaches.” (I think he is telling the truth. I just loaded it onto my phone. I recommend you do the same).
Here’s why I am sending this to each of you. The people of Anchorage need spiritual healing, direction and a saving faith! God has positioned us to participate in delivering His message.
Mark proceeds,
“Do you want to know the Bible better? You’re not alone. You’re not even in the minority. Eighty percent of people in church want to know the Bible better. Surprisingly, the desire may be even stronger in those outside the church. In a recent survey here in Phoenix, 60 percent of those who said they were interested in the Bible were not connected with any church. There’s a reason so many people want to know the Bible better: they know the Bible will make them better. The positive impact of Scripture on individuals, families, and society has been proved time and again. One study involving one hundred thousand people over eight years showed dramatic results. This research (by Arnold Cole and Pamela Caudill Ovwigho of the Center for Bible Engagement) showed that those who engage the Bible four or more times a week experienced far less destructive behavior: 62 percent less drunkenness, 59 percent less pornography use, 59 percent less sexual sin, and 45 percent less gambling. These results were not from guilt manipulation but were rather the mark of personal transformation. The positive message of Scripture allowed individuals to reduce bitterness by 40 percent, destructive thoughts by 32 percent, isolation by 32 percent, inability to forgive by 31 percent, and loneliness by 30 percent. 1 Bible engagement improves your self-esteem, family structure, and social interactions. It’s “the single most powerful predictor of spiritual growth.” 2 So if you want to know the Bible better—you’ll be better for it.
Since so many people who want to know the Bible better are not in church, we can’t rely on pastors as the sole delivery system for Scripture. Lay leaders must take responsibility for bringing biblical truths to their networks at work, at home, and in the community. That’s the purpose of this book. It’s not designed to make you smart; it’s designed to make you effective. Those who move from Bible curiosity to Bible confidence are far more likely to engage their gifts in service to others for God’s glory. Bible confidence fosters social engagement, acts of compassion, and community transformation.”
I have said the last 2 Sunday’s:
There are people around us who would turn to Christ if their heart would just change and their mind become aware that God and His Word are real and reliable. The first takes an act of The Spirit. The second takes an act from us.
As the school year begins, CCA is going to pray. We are going to be persistent as the widow (Luke 18.1-8), expect God-sized answers and actions, and pray for specific things we will be asking God to do here and around the world. It will be August 25-September 8. Three Sundays with the two weeks between.
We will pray for personal conviction and involvement in Christ’s mission (Matthew 9.38), our families, our city, all 11 CCA missions and the Back to Church Sunday (September 15). Praying for our neighborhoods and neighborhoods around the world through our Missionaries.
Christ through you; “exponentially increase your impact on society”
Prepare!