Sermon: The Local Church (Turn & Trust)

Christians have leaned on the value of catechism for centuries to summarize their core beliefs. Originally, catechisms and creeds helped those without formal instruction to understand the things of God. Over time these catechisms turn into compliance mechanisms leading many modern believers to overlook their true value. It's time to get back to that and re-explore the catechism of our beliefs. Prepare to be challenged as we undergo the daunting task of declaring what we believe.

This section discusses the relevance of the local church and the role it plays in our faith. Is the church a center for cultural exchange or maybe a social hub? For many, it is that and solely that! For others, it is a blend of cultural hub and religious gathering spot where we can consume Jesus-themed goods and services. However, our God is a jealous God (Deut 4:24) and He desires all of our hearts, minds, and souls. However, many have become accustomed to fashioning church in *their* own image, like a golden calf that they are comfortable bowing to. Change their church, and suddenly God becomes too foreign and uncomfortable. Maybe they forgot that the focus is the savior and not the throne *they* built for Him. Christ's church is unity (in Him), it is purpose (in Him), and it is intimacy (in Him). As Christians, our desire in the assembly should be to embrace what it means to be a part of Christ, not for how to make Christ a part of us.