Cross City Church
There's no such thing as a perfect church, but we can strive to be authentic and pursue Christ. Join us for our "Real Church" series as we discover what Cross City is all about.
A REAL Church LEADS People to Grow
2 Timothy 2:1-7
You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
Being “real” means that we are authentic, imperfect people who find hope and help in Jesus – and who passionately entrust the truth of the gospel to others.
…be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. v. 1
One command: ENTRUST truth to others.
2 Timothy 2:2
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
Identify - Invest - Invite - Inform - Instruct
82% of people would come to church if a friend invited them. Only 2% of Christians bother.
– Carey Nieuwhof
Three challenges:
Challenge #1 - Be focused.
2 Timothy 2:4
No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier.
“Only one life, t’will soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.”
– CT Studd
Mark 3:14
And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach…
Challenge #2 - Be authentic.
Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. v. 5
1 Corinthians 9:26-27
Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim…but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.
Challenge #3 – Be patient.
The hard-working farmer ought to be the first to receive his share of the crops. v. 6
1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.
If you will be faithful, God will make you fruitful.
One leader: Christ.
2 Timothy 2:7
Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
2 Timothy 2:2
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.