The Permanent Christian Visitor
In every neighborhood there are those who come to watch someone work on a project. They simply watch while offering “expert” advice and criticism. One can’t help but wonder if Noah had such a neighbor as he constructed the ark. What I have just described is the Christian who is the permanent visitor. They do not desire to be a part of the local church. They may attend all the services and give every appearance of being a faithful Christian. The Lord does not approve.
Just as God gave plans to Noah on how to construct the ark, Jesus had a plan for his church. Part of that plan was for Christians to serve in the local church as we see in Revelation 2 and 3. Just like Noah, Christians work hard following the plan Jesus delivered. As we see in Acts 15, strife among brethren happens. The plan Jesus gave for his church is the standard by which all matters are settled.
Making it known that you are putting your hands to the plow with the local brethren is imperative. Elders need to know who they are to watch over. (Heb. 13: 17) Those making up the local church are accountable for whom they fellowship. (2 Cor. 6: 14 – 15) All the brethren are to take part in the work of the church. (1 Cor. 12: 12 – 27) The permanent Christian visitor is not under the watchful eye of the elders. They have not been approved for fellowship nor are they taking part in the work.
The permanent Christian visitor should make himself available to the Lord to use for his good purpose. They should have a mind to do his will. (Neh. 4: 6, Eph. 4: 11 – 16) Being a part of the local work is the will of God. When Saul came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples. (Acts 9: 26) They did not believe he was a disciple. The apostles heard Barnabas testify for Saul and in verse 28 we see Saul was accepted.
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Are you a Christian? Have you joined a local church? If you have plans on being a permanent visitor, please repent. You cannot be pleasing to God and be a permanent visitor. That may be your plan, but it is not the plan of God.
JRD
I'm A pastor and a humanitarian am taking care of the total orphans, street children's and elderly people by building them houses and feeding them come and join me to serve the living God amen
3 个月Dear Servant of God Greetings from Kenya in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ. How precious and favour from God to connect with here. This is Pastor Geoffrey Geoffrey from Kenya.... we are young fellowship with 44 members apart from that we are caring 28 orphans in our home who we straggle up and down to feed. We don't have any ministry name. We call it Ogosemeri fellowship in nyamecheo village Kenyanya sub county kisii County. We humbly welcome you to come and teach us the word of God so that we can grown spiritually. Read Acts 16:9-10. Kindly pray for us and if you have any Christian books and bibles, and any help to our orphans send them to help our fellowship because we don't have any bibles except mine and it is now old without all pages. This is our WhatsApp (+254757542837) we love to hear from you Yours in Christ Pastor Geoffrey
BLC TVR
4 个月I agree!
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4 个月Can provide this for anyone in need of it as well
Family Business Owner at Bethlehem Wood Crafts
4 个月Good to know!