We gather as members of God's family because...

1.  We are invited. But will we go in?

2.  We are invested. But will we grab hold?

3.  We are involved. But will we get plugged in?     Being plugged in means we are...       •  Examining one...

1.  Grim reality (1–3)2.  Redeeming love (4–5)3.  Ascended position (6–7)4.  Costly gift (8–9)5.  Empowered for service (10)

1.  Living as a disciple of Jesus Christ means...       •  You don't do everything you want to do.       •  You do some things you don't want to do.

2.  What the world has to offer you       •  Popularity and prestige       •  Power     ...

For one to have a clear understanding of the church, one must explore the church...

1.  Grammatically.      Ekklesia: an assembly of people gathered together       •  The invisible ekklesia:  The church that only God sees       •  The...

1.  Disciples seek to discover other disciples by...       •  Seeing their situation.       •  Sharing the gospel.       •  Showing them the way.

2.  Some important action steps       •  Acknowledge that God alone changes lives.       •  Ask God for...

Learning from those we don't know reminds us that...

1.  Notoriety doesn't equate to intimacy.

2.  Diversity shouldn't impact our unity.

3.  Availability is the greatest necessity.

God works through His people to achieve His purposes, even when we don't have enough.

1.  The resources are insufficient.2.  The offering is multiplied.3.  The result is God-glorifying.

The life of James reminds us...

1.  Who we are.       •  Our passions can be good.       •  Our passions can get the best of us.       •  Our passions must be guided by God.

2.  What we are all about.       •  What excites me?       •  Who is...