God's Will for the Local church

Prayerfully consider the following passages and discussion.

: Consider the words of Jesus to the seven churches. In what ways is Elmcrest similar to these Churches? What are similar strengths? What are some similar weaknesses? What do you learn about God’s will for the local church from these chapters?

; : Consider the words of the Apostle Paul to the church at Corinth. In what ways is Elmcrest similar to the church at Corinth? How would his instruction apply to our situation? What do we learn about God’s will for the local church from these chapters?

; : These verses contain some of the richest themes from the Apostle John. What is specially encouraging to you in Jesus’ words in ? What do we learn about God’s will for the local church from the book of 1 John?

: In these chapters the apostle Paul applies the rich theology of to the context of the local church. Which themes stand out the most? What take-aways are there for our life together at Elmcrest?

: List down with a pen and paper all of the things that you see in this New Testament church fellowship? Which does Elmcrest do well? Are there any areas in which we are weak? What do you learn about God’s will for the local church from these verses?

6. In light of the reading, what are the major components of God’s ideal for a local church?

7. What are the defining characteristics of a vibrant congregation? Are there any characteristics that we tend to focus on that irrelevant when it comes to a biblical understanding of the church?

8. Consider the 9 Marks of a Healthy Church according to Mark Dever:

a. Expositional Preaching

b. Biblical Theology

c. The Gospel

d. A Biblical understanding of conversion

e. A Biblical understanding of evangelism

f. A Biblical understanding of church membership

g. Biblical church discipline

h. A concern for discipleship and growth

i. Biblical church leadership

Would you agree, disagree, add, or take away from these 9 Marks in light of your reading?

9. Consider the five purposes of the church from Rick Warren:

a. Warmer through fellowship

b. Deeper through discipleship

c. Stronger through worship

d. Broader through ministry

e. Larger through evangelism.

Would you agree, disagree, or take away from these 5 purposes?

10. In considering God’s ideal for the church, what are some things we need to consider for our own life together at Elmcrest? What needs to change? What needs attention? What do we need to strengthen?