The Trumpet Sounds: ‘Erased’

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This Sunday at South Side we begin a new series on a subject that is often neglected in the church that we are calling “Erased.” Today the church is missing something that is desperately needed. As I examine the state of the church in America today it’s clear to see that it is often focused on programs, gimmicks, and creative slogans more than the power of God for its growth and development.

Christianity today is about a million miles wide, but often just a quarter inch deep. Many Churches are filled with man-centered messages, slogans, campaigns, and gimmicks instead of operating out of the power of the Holy Spirit and proclaiming a Christ-centered gospel! The message of the church has often become a “me” centered gospel instead of a “He” centered gospel. Many ministries have become entertainment industries focused specifically on their own promotion rather than being about the promotion of the message of Christ.

Sadly, Christianity has often become more about social status rather than about helping the poor, the outcast, the broken, and the lost! Scripture warns us of a time when “teachers” will preach what itching ears want to hear. I believe we are now living in those times. Many believe that we are in an era where early believers wouldn’t even recognize what we call the “church.” We learn from science that when we keep watering down something its original substance is erased. This subject is of great concern to me as I observe western Christianity among others as a whole in our nation and within our own community! So what do we need? What is missing, and what has been erased?

I believe we need to restore the presence of the Holy Spirit in our churches today. In John 14:16-17 Jesus said: And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. Francis Chan addresses this issue by saying “Without Him, people operate in their own strength and only accomplish human-size results. The world is not moved by love or actions that are of human creation. And the church is not empowered to live differently from any other gathering of people without the Holy Spirit. But when believers live in the power of the Spirit, the evidence in their lives is supernatural. The church cannot help but be different, and the world cannot help but notice”

This Sunday at South Side we will begin a new series entitled “Erased.” Each week we will unpack biblical facts about the Holy Spirit. We will also address how the Holy Spirit is often the most neglected person of the Trinity in church services, and in our daily lives. Worship begins at 10:15, and our Children’s Ministry offers children’s classes for all ages. We are continuing to practice social distancing at our services. If you are unable to attend our online services will be available at 3:00 on Facebook and our website. If you would like to give generously text: 84321 then the word “help” and follow the simple instructions. We would love to have your family worship with us! For more information visit us on our website at: www.southsidewch.com or on Facebook.

In Christ,

Barry Pettit

Lead Pastor

South Side Church of Christ

www.southsidewch.com

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By Barry Pettit

Religion Writer

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