The Weekly Epistle 10/14/20

Why is it that people ignore warnings?  When fires ravage the forests and homes, there are those who ignore warnings to evacuate.  When hurricanes threaten to wipe out coastal properties, some people choose to ride it out rather than listen to officials warning them of impending danger. 

Even more tragic is not taking seriously the clear and timeless warnings in Scripture.  Here are a few for us to ponder.

  “Be self-controlled and alert.  Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (I Peter 5:8).

  “But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1). 

  “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” (Matthew 7:15). 

Frequently we find the words, “Be on guard,” and “do not be ignorant of,” and “watch out.”  These are warnings we dare not ignore.  What then should be our response?  Live in fear?  Find a demon under every rock?  Shrug our shoulders and look the other way?

Church, continue in the things you have learned.  Open God’s Word.  Don’t be surprised by deception.  Be discerning.  Pay attention.  Be good news to others.  Stay connected to your church family.  Cling to truth.  Live the truth. 

And above all things, remember our God is Sovereign.  At the end of the day His will is being done.  That doesn’t mean we aren’t to live responsibly in the world, but our trust is the good outcomes that come from a perfect God who does all things well.  In these challenging times, be awakened to the many opportunities we have to be part of the grand plan of Jesus’ commitment to building His church. 

Do you know where God wants you to serve?  Have you gone through the Network Spiritual Gifts workshop?  This is the tool EBC uses to place the right people in the right ministry.  Are you in the right ministry?  Do you want to discover and then serve in line with your gift set, personality, and passion?  Participate in the network workshop on Saturday November 7 & 14 from 9:00-noon.  Sign up by stopping at ministry counter or contacting the church office and pick up the materials you need to get started.

Our fifth annual “Trunk or Treat” will look a little different this year, but the potential for impact is still high.  Will you decorate your trunk this year?  Sign up or contact the office ASAP. 

I leave you with this reminder.  Jesus is building His church.  The gates of hell will not prevail against it.  We get to be part of that great purpose!  Carry on, EBC, carry on! 

Blessings, Pastor Brian