Next Steps

 When a person embraces faith and experiences conversion, they become a member of the true universal Church—the body of Christ (Ephesians 2:19-22). It is essential for every believer to connect with a local church community (Hebrews 10:25).  Why is this connection so important? 

• Identity as a Believer: Joining a local church identifies you as part of the family of God and signifies your commitment to living out your faith. 
• Spiritual Family: A local church provides you with a supportive spiritual family that encourages you in your walk with Christ. 
• Discovering Your Gifts: Being part of a church allows you to discover and actively use your spiritual gifts in ministry, contributing to the body of Christ. 
• Spiritual Protection: Local churches place believers under the guidance and protection of godly leaders who are committed to nurturing their spiritual growth.

 1. Worship 

• Purpose: Helps us focus on God and prepares us spiritually and emotionally for the week ahead.
• Key Aspects: - Preaching - Praise - Prayer
  (References: John 4:24, Hebrews 10:24-25, Psalm 100, 150, 146)

2. Fellowship 

• Purpose: Provides support and encouragement from fellow Christians to help us face life's challenges.
• Key Aspects: -Breaking bread together - Bearing one another's burdens      - Building each other up - Blessing one another
  (Reference: Galatians 6:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Acts 2:46)

3. Discipleship 

• Purpose: Strengthens our faith by learning the truth of God’s word and applying biblical principles in our lives.
• Key Aspects: - Bearing one another's burdens  - Telling and sharing testimonies - Teaching and training each other

                 (Reference: Matthew 28:19-20, 2 Timothy 3:16-17)

4. Ministry 

• Purpose: Helps us discover and develop our spiritual gifts as we serve God and others.
• Key Aspects: - Sowing seeds of faith  - Serving those in need   - Seeking opportunities to help
  (Reference: Ephesians 4:12-13, Romans 12:3-8, 1 Peter 4:10-11)

5. Evangelism   

• Purpose: Fulfills our mission to reach friends, family, and others for Christ.
• Key Aspects:  – Seeking the lost   – Seeing their needs – Sharing the gospel
  (Reference: Romans 10:14, Mark 16:15, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8)

6. Giving 

• Purpose: Supports ministry efforts and maintains church operations
• Key Aspects:  – Giving your treasure (financial contributions)  – Giving your time (volunteering) – Giving your talent (sharing skills)
  (Reference: Proverbs 3:9, Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:7, Acts 20:35, Matthew 25:40)

  By engaging in these components, we grow deeper in our faith while building a vibrant community that honors God.