The good words #2

Firstly, Tom you are not only a man of immaculate hair, but you also made a good comment on my previous post. If you don't know Tom, check out his insightful musings at http://www.runnoft.blogspot.com

Now, to resolve the cliffhanger ending...

Why do i normally tell what the Gospel is during my sermons and give a chance to respond?

One - Because any sermon should, whilst accurately explaining and applying the text, point towards the life-giving message of Jesus. The response should be to place your trust in Him, either for the first time or anew in greater obedience.

Two - Despite how long they have been "warming the pews" you can never be sure where they are at with God. Even though they may have been at church for ages, they may never have actually given God control over their life.

Three - I remember an animated discussion that occurred during a small group once about the uselessness of Ephesians(?) 1. On face value, Paul writes about the gospel that the readers should have already been familiar with. But, upon further thinking, i see the value in allowing those who are believers to hear the basic truths again. The same can be said for Christians in the modern church.

Four - People know what they are going to get when they invite someone to church. They won't be confused whether their guest will hear the core message of Christianity (hopefully the reason they invited them in the first place!).