As we continue to review the three priorities of Calvary Chapel Eagle we will today take a close look at the priority of “IN-Reach”. I believe these are God’s priorities in the order of importance. First, we must be a “God focused” church reaching up to Him in personal service and worship (UP=Reach). Second, we must, as the family of God love and care for each other as the scriptures teach us (IN-Reach). Finally, we should be a healthy church that reproduces itself by reaching out to the lost and lovingly inviting them into the family of God (Outreach).

Some would be tempted to overlook or minimize “in-reach” claiming that it is not a worthy priority. Yet, a portion of today’s text makes it clear that one of the churches’ purposes of existing is to build each other up in love…

“So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” Ephesians 4:14-16, ESV.

Remember, Jesus said that this is what distinguishes His disciples from those who are merely “religious” …

“By this all will know that you are My disciples,

if you have love for one another.” John 13:35, NKJV.

Are you loving God by loving your fellow believer? Are you seeking to use your God-given spiritual gifts to build up the faith of those in your circle of fellowship? Are you allowing the Holy Spirit of God to manifest His love and grace through you as you interact with the community of believers?

These are some worthy considerations for your “New Year’s resolution”

Pastor Mike