Key Bible Verse: But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent (Acts 6:1). Bonus Reading: Acts 6:1-7

At the inner-city Chicago high school where he coached, Wayne Gordon launched a Fellowship of Christian Athletes program. Guys lifted weights in his storefront apartment and talked about serious issues. When Wayne's bride, Anne, moved into the 'hood with him, the gathering took on a coed flavor. The newlyweds urged several youths who became followers of Christ to become involved in a good church. But after an in-depth Bible study on the subject, the youth determined that their fellowship was a church and that Wayne was their pastor!

Soon the Gordons' storefront living room was packed, and guitar-strumming young professionals showed up to lend support. The teenage "elders," concerned that white folk were molding the young church to their own cultural preferences, called a closed meeting. They unanimously voted that while others could attend, only neighborhood residents could belong to their Lawndale Community Church.

Curious parents began joining. Professional outsiders relocated to the community. Today 600 families attend the church, which has reclaimed entire city blocks, started small businesses, and operates a health clinic and a residential drug rehab program.

—Robert Lupton in Renewing the City

My Response: Do I see ruling out commuter church growth as negative or positive?

Thought to Apply: What I am is God's gift to me; what I do with it is my gift to Him.—WARREN WIERSBE (pastor & author)

Adapted from Renewing the City (InterVarsity, 2005) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, Your Church should be validating Christ's reconciling power. Help me to do my part.

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