Vitality Update 11.08.19

Posted on November 8, 2019.

Healthy Missional Marker #1: Centrality of the Word of God.

The ECC has laid out ten identifying characteristics of a Healthy, Missional Church. By "healthy” we mean pursuing Christ. By “missional” we mean pursuing Christ’s priorities in the world.  These characteristics are called the "Ten Healthy Missional Markers". Over the course of these Vitality emails, we will look at these ten markers, and consider how they apply to our church life, if we see them in our church life, and how you can live into the calling of each marker.
 
Marker #1: The Centrality of the Word of God.
“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness…” – 2 Timothy 3:16
 
A church that is focused on the centrality of the Word of God as a healthy missional marker can say the following:
  • "We believe that the bible is the only perfect rule for faith, doctrine and conduct. Our preaching and teaching in all settings reflects careful preparation, relevance, and creativity. Our people are equipped and growing in their ability to study and apply biblical truth in ways that lead to a scripturally integrated life."
A sign of church that is full of Vitality, is a church where Scripture is regularly preached and taught in all areas of church life, and to all ages and demographics in the church.
 
For further resources from the Covenant on this Healthy Missional Marker, click here.
 
Questions for Personal Reflection:
  • Is this Healthy Missional Marker (Centrality of the Word of God) a strength for Messiah Church? If so, where do you see it in the life of the church today? If not, where do you see it lacking and how could Scripture be integrated more?
  • Is daily, faithful Bible Study a part of your faith journey? If so, how has it impacted your life to regularly be in the word of God? If not, how can you take steps to begin to reading the Word, both individually and in community?
  • Pray that Messiah Church may boldly preach and teach the word of God and the saving message of Jesus Christ to the word.