Many years ago an older Christian Business man said to me, "Scott, always remember to keep the main thing the main thing." That was and is a great line but often it depends what church you go to and what they determine the main thing to be! In some, it is helping other people come to Christ and then they become part of the team to reach the rest of the world. In other places you would think taking care of the poor is the main thing. Different churches incorporate all the same things some package them differently. In some churches you would think worship style or being cutting edge is the most important thing. Many young pastors are very proud of being different as if being different is what God has called us to become.

 

From my current vantage point (read the previous post) I believe the main thing is to have a growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ. After 30 years of being a believer, Paul the great apostle in his writing to the Phillipian Church said, "That I may know Him and the power of his resurrection sharing in his sufferings. . ." Jesus said in John 17:3, "This is life eternal that they might know You, the only true God and Jesus Christ whom you sent." Jesus also said in John 15, I am the vine and you are the branches if you abide in me you will bring forth much fruit. In Matthew 7, Jesus says to some really active religious people, "Depart from me for I never knew you." The main thing is being in a vibrant, growing relationship with Jesus Christ. When I am in that place, I want to worship, I will have an impact on others, I will care about helping hurting people and I will make a difference. I hate to say it, worship style is fluff, its personal preference, being cutting edge has nothing to do with anything. The only thing that matters is am I personally in a growing relationship and is what I’m doing in ministry promoting that same cause for others to enjoy. The outcome of the relationship will be surrender, humility, love, service and impact. When I know Him, I have eternal life. When I know Him, He directs my life. When I know Him, He teaches me everything He wants me to know. When I know Him, He prompts me where to serve, give, share and who needs His touch. "Come to Me," Jesus says, I will give you rest for your souls, learn from Me! Knowing Him is the main thing!