The other night I had a conversation with a close friend in Florida and we began talking about church. For the next few minutes, I went on about life change that I witnessed each week, the excitement of their vision with the statement that "we're going to make it hard to go to hell in East Tennessee".
Growing up in an extremely conservative church, meant you had to follow the rules that were given by Alexander Campbell, Barton Stone, Elias Smith, Thomas Campbell, and Walter Scott. Yes I was taught from their teachings. During that time there was very little discussed about "Grace". It was following their church guidelines in doing the "work" of the Church. It was not until 13 years ago that I examined a contemporary church that spoke on the grace of the Lord and not the works in the church.
Then when we moved to Tennessee, we searched for a church that met that criteria and vision for reaching the lost. After some search, Lynnette said, "Guess we are just going to have to start a church here." Note - BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY WHEN TALKING ABOUT THE LORD'S CHURCH.
So our goal for these years here in Tennessee has been to partner with a church who carries the vision for expanding the kingdom and help the lost find eternal life in heaven.
Having degrees so there can have great discussions on one sentence in the Bible does not help a person far from a relationship with the Lord to make a decision. It has to come from your excitement in seeing the Lord work in a mighty way. That is found in faith for the Lord to work in you for making the first step of seeing someone come to the Lord and witness life change.
I believe you are never too old to dream BIG. If the Lord is calling you to more ministry or a new area of ministry, quit rationalizing your response and go for it. You will be amazed the peace, joy, excitement, fulfillment, and many other adjectives that comes from faithful service in seeing that the lost in your area do not go to hell.
Read, listen, and building a daily relationship with the Lord will give you understanding for His place in your life.
