…which should equal “Can I Get a Witness”. Anybody else remember that Marvin Gaye Song…
As we start what is traditionally known as open house month in The United Methodist Church, I have been thinking about what that really means to me and our church (especially our youth)! Over the next month, you will probably be watching a college or pro football game and all of sudden there will be a thirty second commercial on the television talking about the United Methodist Church.
The question is not…
…what is the commercial doing to help people make decisions to become disciples of Jesus Christ?
…what is the church doing to help people make decisions to become disciples of Jesus Christ?
…what is First United Methodist Church doing to help people make decisions to become disciples of Jesus Christ?
The better question is…
…what are you doing to help people make decisions to become disciples of
Jesus Christ?!
In 2008 the General Conference of the United Methodist Church added a word to the statement we say when we join the church.
The statement used to read: “As members of this congregation, will you faithfully participate in its ministries by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, and your service?” The statement was great, but we added the words…
…and your witness…
Now a lot of people will say if you are doing the other four then your witness should already be there! And I partially agree with that, but even the best Christians at living out their faith need that reminder daily!
Webster’s Dictionary says a witness is…
…one that gives evidence; specifically : one who testifies in a cause or before a judicial tribunal
…public affirmation by word or example of usually religious faith or conviction
What is your Witness…
…Do your friends know that you are a disciple of Jesus Christ…
…Do your family members want to hear your stories of Jesus Christ…
…Do your neighbors know that you are set apart for Jesus Christ…
…Do your employees/employer know that Jesus Christ is the number one
priority in your life…
…If you were to be put on trial for the criminal act of Christianity (this does not happen in America, but it is going on in other countries across the world), would you be convicted of your witness…
The question of open house month is not…
…Are you inviting people to the United Methodist Church?
…or are you inviting people to First United Methodist Church?
The question of open house month is…
Are you helping people make decisions to become disciples of Jesus Christ?
Is coming to our church a by product of that?
It sure can be.
But the question I have for you right now is…
…Are you being a Witness? Can I get a Witness?
