Disciples

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) began on the American frontier around 1800 out of a concern that the church should not be divided by doctrine, government, or worship, but instead should express unity based on our common faith in Jesus Christ. Christianity is a matter of common commitment to Christ rather than specific ideas or practices. Founders Alexander Campbell and Barton Stone envisioned a movement among the churches that would restore the simplicity of the New Testament church, especially as seen in the sharing of the Lord's Supper. That unity would be a witness to the love which God has for all of us.

As members of the Christian Church, we confess that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and proclaim Him Lord and Savior of the world. In Christ's name and by His grace we accept our mission of witness and service to all people. We rejoice in God, maker of heaven and earth, and in the covenant of love which binds us to God and one another. Through baptism into Christ we enter newness of life and are made one with the whole people of God. In communion of the Holy Spirit we are joined together in discipleship and obedience to Christ. Within the universal church we receive the gift of ministry and the light of the scripture. In the bonds of Christian faith we yield ourselves to God that we may serve the One whose kingdom has no end. Blessing, glory, and honor be to God forever. AMEN.

VERSE OF THE WEEK

The Lord hath given me the tongue of the learned that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary. Isaiah 50:4

THOUGHTS ON THIS WEEK’S VERSE

“You are a nice boy,” I said to a seven-year-old child after church one Sunday. He grinned and said, “No one ever told me that before.” Perhaps that was the very reason people had stereotyped him as an unruly and mischievous youngster. Perhaps no one complimented him when he behaved, but he received plenty of criticism when he did something wrong. Even his parents, though well intentioned, withheld encouragement because they felt that complimenting him would lead to pride, a grievous sin.

Children live up to what they think is expected of them. They respond to what they hear about themselves. It is very important in developing a good self-image to receive compliments and encouragement, especially from parents. Colossians 3:21 says, “Fathers, do not provoke your children or they may lose heart.” Constructive criticism may serve its purpose, but there’s nothing like words of encouragement to help us press on to serve God and do what is right in his eyes.

PRAYER
Dear Lord, help me not to let a single day go by without encouraging someone. Amen

Ref: The Secret Place, Devotions for Daily Worship, Vol. 74, #3, pg 21

Disciples of Christ (home page)

Disciples of Christ (lectionary)

“Disciples of Christ Identity Statement”

A Movement for Wholeness in a Fragmented World, Welcoming
All to God's Table as God Welcomed Us!