On Purpose: Connect

SUMMARY:

Connecting with Jesus Changes Our Eternity

Throughout the Gospels, there are countless stories of people having transformative encounters with Jesus. Earlier this year, we explored these stories in our "Encounters with Jesus" series.

As you reflect on these stories, think about the paralyzed man whose friends lowered him through the roof to reach Jesus, or the blind man whose sight Jesus restored. Consider Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, who left everything to follow Him. Peter's journey with Jesus was far from perfect—it was messy. He went from walking on water to cutting off a man's ear, to denying Jesus three times, and finally being restored by Jesus to become the rock on which the early church was built.

The reality is that every follower of Jesus, from the New Testament to today, has had an encounter with Him that changed their eternity. By putting your faith in Jesus as your Lord and Savior, confessing your sins, and believing in His perfect life, death on the cross, and resurrection, you are saved. This connection with Jesus changes your eternity, promising you eternal life and communion with Him forever.

In Luke 6, there’s a pivotal moment when Jesus calls His twelve apostles. Before making this significant decision, Jesus spends the whole night in prayer, demonstrating the importance of time with God. Jesus understood that time with His Father was always well spent. Reflect on your own life—when was the last time you spent meaningful time alone with God, praying, singing, or talking to Him about your current circumstances?

Jesus chose a group of ordinary people to invest in, be vulnerable with, and live life alongside. They were not religious elites; they were willing, available, and dedicated to Jesus' calling. It’s so important to surround yourself with a community of believers who can support and encourage you.

Connecting with Other Believers Changes Our Present Reality

The early church, as described in Acts 2:42-47, thrived on the principles of teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. Their faith was central to their lives, fostering a strong community that supported one another through life's challenges. They were connected by their faith, and it changed their realities. Life was still tough; there was still sickness and heartbreak, but they faced these challenges together, supported by God and their fellow believers.

Ask yourself—what does your life revolve around? Is it your faith, your job, finances, hobbies, or family? While none of these things are inherently wrong, strive to center your life around Christ. When you do, everything else falls into place.

Making time for what you value is essential. Whether it's prioritizing church, small groups, or personal time with God, these connections are crucial. Reflect on your own experiences; diving into the community at LCC can be one of the best decisions of your life. The support and encouragement from friends, staff, and your small group can make even the hardest days better.

Hebrews 10:24-25 says to consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together but encouraging one another. The church should be the most encouraging place you end up each week. By connecting with Jesus, you change your eternity, and by connecting with other believers, you change your present reality.

The church needs you—your mind, heart, and spirit to spur one another on and encourage each other in our faith.

WANT TO DIVE DEEPER?

Joining a group is a great way to know people and strengthen your relationship with Jesus Christ. Take a look at available groups to get plugged in to and find the group that is right for you. 

GIVING

Everything that happens at LCC is because of your generous gifts. When you give to God through LCC, you're helping reach thousands with the Gospel each week and are making a difference for the Lowcountry and around the world.