The Rise of Imperial Christianity: Part 2

Today’s message is the tenth in a series titled “How People Change,” in which we are taking a break in our exposition of John’s Gospel.

We have been examining the Biblical view of the process of sanctification. That is, what do we need in our lives to become more like Jesus? In a world where most are opposed to the things of God, it is a challenge for Christians to change in the sanctification process. One theme of the New Testament is the importance of redeemed relationships, that is, true fellowship with other believers where we help one another in encouragement. Without these relationships, our sanctification is dramatically hindered; we won’t be who God wants us to be without these relationships. The importance that God places on relationships is evident in the way the Ten Commandments focus on our relationship with God, and our relationship with others. The Persons of the Trinity exist in a relational communion of love, and God creates us in His image to relate and love one another.

In this message, taken from Acts 20:17-38, we will examine the redemptive relationship we are all called to have with the Elders of our church. The thesis: “Every church desperately needs an effective shepherding ministry