Looking ahead Spring 2008
In recent weeks we have finished our two teaching series.
The morning series saw a look at Jesus Christ from the perspective of His being a healer, judge, saviour, teacher, historic figure, servant and Lord. I have enjoyed looking at the different passages and hope the congregation have as well. In preparing the series I was greatly helped by A Spectator's Guide to Jesus by John Dickson, published by Blue Bottle books. It's well worth a read.
In the evening we have tried to get back to first principles of doing church, namely the importance of Gospel and community summed up by 1 Thess 2v8 "Not only did we share the Gospel with you but our whole lives as well, because you had become dear to us..."
For me this is the primary model of evangelism: a community exploring the Bible, deepening fellowship and attracting the interest of others as God wills. By His grace I think we have seen this already with our Faith @ 530 outreach services.
As we look at the spring and summer 08 season, we will look at Philippians in the morning and Job at night. Philippians as ever will be such a joy to explore. The letter says so much about Gospel partnership and Christian unity in love.
Job on the other hand is tough! But then life is also tough for many in our community. Job speaks powerfully of God's controlling hand in bad times. A lesson well learned early on in our walk together with the Lord and each other.
Outside of church, community contacts have developed well.
It is a real encouragement to support the work of our school which has done so well in recent years. The Boxing club continue to provide training for young men in the area and have seen fruit for their labours in local competitions recently.
I have met with the local flute band who are recognised as one of the best in Northern Ireland. I have also met with Ballykeel FC who are close to promotion in the Saturday morning league. These clubs and community providers continue to support the renewal of Ballykeel as a good place to live and a good community to be part of.
As a church in the heart of the area we want to pray for God's blessing on Ballykeel and ask Him for wisdom and a servant heart as we outwork our witness in the area.
In Christ
Martin McNeely