Carbondale Church of Christ- A tool for local outreach?

I had some response to Sundays sermon regarding the idea that our local congregation is a tool that God can use to expand His kingdom in Carbondale and surrounding areas. It seems that many congregations lose site of this life giving purpose for the local church. Yes exist to worship God. Yes we exist to take care of one another. And yes we exist to be reaching into our community with great excitement with the message of God's saving grace. I love the story of the woman at the well because she went to tell the town people without regard for what they might think of her. We to must become like her in sharing God's message with our surrounding neighbors. I say all of that to say this, a congregation can be a sharp tool or a dull, rusted tool. A sharp congregation has members that are excited about what is going on at their congregation. They are committed to their congregation. They are active in their congregation. They make a church a priority in the busyness of their lives. When I was growing up (lol as if I am old) the church played a more central role in a families life. Not so anymore. We put sports, school, musicals, other extra curricular activities before church or church activities. Then fewer members are at worship, class, youth group, etc. Numbers begin to lag. Excitement drops. Congregations become a dull, rusted tool for God to use. I would issue a call for our members and members at other congregations to examine their commitment to the purposes of their local church. God's purposes for the church are worship, fellowship, serving, discipleship, & outreach. What is your role in assisting your congregation in fulfilling these purposes?
A recent study on churches that are growing faster than the area in which they are located revealed that those church leaderships expressed high expectations of their members. They were expected to be in a small group, attend a class 80 % of the time and serve in some ministry of the congregation. Could you imagine what our congregation could accomplish with all hands on deck working. May the Lord bless all of our hearts with a zeal for seeing this congregation grow with new life like the churches in the book of Acts did. God bless.

Fall Retreat

The Southern Illinois Youth Retreat will be October 12-14 at Dixon Springs State Park. The cost is $15 per person. I greatly encourage all teens attend this weekend. The theme: YOU CHURCH will challenge you to realize that church is not a place or appointment. The church is you! As the church YOU are forever connected to your creator and each other. YOU are a singe piece to a larger puzzle (the church). Together we are a beautiful picture. Where do you fit in the church? What is your role? You are not just a little teenager. You are as much apart of the church as any person of any age. Will you join as we explore God's plan for you as apart of the church body?
The cost is $15. Scholarships are available. Registration cards are at the youth information board. Fill out the card & give to Ryan by Sept. 30th.
If you would like to bring your whole family then see Ryan for a special discount.