Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task

We often see conflict as a thing to be avoided and as a sign of a poorly functioning team. In reality, much of the best growth in our churches, in our personal lives, and in our relationships comes after the painful pruning of conflict. When we face conflict, we also face a choice: we can engage with trouble as inevitable and growth-producing, or we can avoid, withdraw, or lash out. Which choice will you make?

When conflict is sought out or even created and the divisions that follow are hailed as the will of God, the true indicator of theological purity and spiritual maturity, I continue to believe that deep fear of being theologically wrong, and thus losing control of one’s personal and group narrative, lies at the root. - Peter Enns

"Anyone who is to find Christ must first find the church. How could anyone know where Christ is and what faith is in him unless he knew where his believers are?”- Martin Luther

“Pentecost is an invitation to dream. For when a community of faith quits dreaming dreams, it has little to offer either its members or the wider world. These dreams involve adopting a new perspective on what’s possible, rousing our creativity to free us from conventional expectations. They help us see that maybe what we thought was outlandish actually lies within reach. –Matthew L. Skinner

Sermon Series (if applicable): Life Together Week Seven

"We desire to be a community of spiritually empowered people who advance the Kingdom of God against the dominion of darkness in Des Moines and the surrounding areas, and to the world as the Lord leads"

“The Bible says that as long as we are here on earth, we are strangers in a foreign land. There are enemies to be conquered before we return home. This world is not our home; our citizenship is in heaven.”- Billy Graham

When God's people begin to praise and worship Him using the Biblical methods

He gives, the Power of His presence comes among His people in an even greater

measure.” -Graham Truscott

The more we love God the more we will obey. The more we obey the more we will be aware of the reality of Christ in our lives. The more we are aware of Christ in our lives, the more victory we will experience. The more victory we experience, the less difficult the choices are and the less conflict we have within ourselves.

“Jesus came to announce to us that an identity based on success, popularity and power is a false identity- an illusion! Loudly and clearly he says: 'You are not what the world makes you; but you are children of God.” - Henri Nouwen