We have seen that a Spirit-controlled church is unified which is characterized by fellowship and worship. We have also examined the fact that it also emphasizes evangelism through a lovingly, obedient ministry and heart from the people. Let me suggest 2 other evidences of a Spirit-controlled church: 7. It is a submissive church. This means that it’s obedience grows out of a glad heart, willing to do those things that are clearly identified in the Word of God. It submits to the Lord because it loves its Lord and seeks to please only Him. In so doing it bleeds into the other 6 areas that we have already looked at. 8. The Spirit-controlled church looks for ways to serve the Lord. Like the Lord Jesus Christ, our call and goal is not to be served but to serve others. It is a community of believers in which each one ministers by using the gifts given by the Holy Spirit, and using their talents and abilities to bring honor and glory to God. These evidences are impossible for any church to manifest without the willingness of those who are apart of the local church to allow the Spirit of God to … READ MORE

 Last time we looked at the first 3 evidences of a Spirit-controlled church, being a Unified body, that is characterized by fellowship and worship. Today we continue that discussion, but looking at the next three. 4. A Spirit-Controlled church is one that is involved in Winning others to Christ. The Holy Spirit is the true instrument of every conversion, and a church that is responsive to Him lives and shares their faith in a way to draw others to Christ. And are excited about the opportunity that God gives them to reach out to people who long to find purpose in their lives. 5. The Spirit-controlled church is loving. It is an assembly of people who care and help others, and the people around them. The are willing to give of themselves selflessly, and sacrifice their time and energy to help and assist those around them. 6. The Spirit-Controlled church is marked by those who attempt to be obedient to the Word of God. They walk in the path that God prescribes, and choose to obey not out of compulsion, but out of their appreciation and love for what God has done for them. As we approach today, may we … READ MORE

 It has been said that if the Holy Spirit left today, much of what happens in many churches would go on without interruption. This is a condemnation to churches who are relying on personal talent and ability and not on spirit directed gifts. I want to suggest 8 evidences of a spirit controlled church this week. 1. The Spirit- controlled church is unified. The Holy Spirit the source and preserver of unity (Ephesians 4), and that unity does not equal uniformity, but individuality. Yet in the midst of the differences of the people that are apart of the church there is a unity of purpose to glorify God by knowing Him and making Him known. 2. The Spirit-controlled church is characterized by fellowship. This fellowship is deep and wide, honest and intimate, inclusive of every believer who cares and participates. The is usually seen by how long the people linger at the church after the services (the longer the more fellowship), and what they do together outside the confines of the regular services. This fellowship leads to a family atmosphere. 3. The Spirit-controlled church is worshipful. That means its worship is meaningful, genuine, God-centered, and shared by all, as it … READ MORE