Is the Lockdown of the Church advancing the Gospel?
Do you think it strange that in Auckland churches cannot meet but movie theatres and bars are open for people to attend, spaced out in groups no more than 10?
Also, the church in Mt Roskill who were holding prayer meetings during Lockdown 3, & contributed to community transmission, has made many people angry with “the Church” universally.
I think Satan is having a field-day with this pandemic. This is all the more reason for the church to stand firm and still keep meeting online, and still keep preaching the gospel to anyone who will listen.
This week my Indian neighbour, who is suffering depression through being in Lockdown with a 1 year old, and all family back in India, asked me why my children live in other NZ cities? She couldn’t understand why I wasn’t living with my children, and they caring for me “in my old age!” This opened up a conversation about me being a minister and how God called me to the people of Connect. She was shocked that anything could be more important than living with family.
What conversations have you been able to have this week that promote the Gospel and your faith in Christ?
When Paul was in “Lockdown” in prison and in chains because of the Gospel of Christ, He said this:
“Now I want you to know brothers that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly,” Philippians 1: 12-14.
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, through the Spirit working daily in you.
About Pastor Julie
I’m passionate about the church – building believers up in their faith, to be all God intended them to be; and I’m passionate about sharing the love and hope of Jesus with people who don’t know Him yet.