Life was the reason Jesus came.
John 1:4, In him was life and that life was the light of men. John 10:10, I have come that they may have life and life to the fullest. John 14:6, I am the way, the truth and the Life.
There are two kinds of life:
1
Biological Life
2
Eternal Life
Characteristics of the “God-engaged life” From Luke 4:18-19: Good news proclaimed to the poor
Freedom to the prisoners Sight to the blind Releasing the oppressed
Three “C’s” of a Life-Giving Church…
A connected community that contextualizes the message of God’s love.
In a post-modern, post-Christian world, we must hold forth the only life-giving message…
Jesus is still asking his people, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15) A Life-giving church has a fresh vision of Jesus and lifts him up in all things. John 12:32, If I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men unto myself.
A Life-giving church knows that life flows from the Spirit.
John 6:63, The Spirit gives life. 2 Corinthians 6:3, The Spirit gives life
The anointing of the Holy Spirit is essential for life-changing ministry to occur. John 3:6, Flesh gives birth to flesh. Spirit gives birth to Spirit.
A Life-giving church takes prayer seriously. Acts 2:43, They devoted themselves…to prayer.
Jesus said the Father’s House would be a House of Prayer. (Matthew 21:13; Isaiah 56:7) A Life-giving church connects with God’s Kingdom through prayer and intercession, motivated by compassion. A Life-giving church is also connected to other like-minded churches with a Kingdom agenda to touch reach our city and touch our world.