Member Manual Church of Joy

Transcription

Cover Page - Jordan Jones Design
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Table of Contents - Jordan Jones Design
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Letter from Pastor Louie
Thank you!
Thank you for taking the time to carefully consider what it means to be a
member here at Church of Joy. Because we are committed to caring for those
God has entrusted to our Pastoral Care, we want our members to fully
understand their role as members of not only our church family, but as members
of the Body of Christ.
Church of Joy is called to reach out, restore families, reclaim the next
generation and renew a commitment to righteousness in our community and
this is best accomplished through a very intimate, transparent pastoral
relationship that is built on mutual trust and integrity. As a minister of the Gospel
of Christ to children, teens and adults for almost 20 years, I recognize that my
role as pastor is best expressed by understanding the role of a father.
A father guides, protects, instructs, trains, corrects, provides for and gives
identity to his children so that they can fulfill their God-given potential to impact
the world and build the kingdom of God. My role is to guide, protect, instruct,
train, correct, provide and give identity to the members of our church as you
explore and discover who you are in Christ. Ephesians 4:12-13 affirms my duty,
12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built
up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God
and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Often the question of membership is not whether I am willing to be a
father. The real question is whether you are willing to be a son or daughter. It is
my prayer that this Member Manual will aid you in understanding the heart, the
mission and the mandate of our ministry, and offer you a clear sense of your
willingness to submit and join yourself to it. Allow your consideration to be
prayerful and sincere, and be sure to ask questions if they arise. We are building
a great church, and we welcome you to be a part!
Pastor Luis R. Reyes
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Letter from Tricia Reyes
Welcome!
God is doing great things through the ministry of Church of Joy, and it’s
always our pleasure to invite others to join us on this journey of faith, hope and
sacrifice! When my husband and I started the ministry almost 20 years ago, we
knew that God had called us to bring JOY to communities who desperately
needed it.
As I look back at the journey of our faith, the Joy of the Lord has truly
become our strength as we have been used by God to strengthen families,
strengthen marriages, and strengthen people who have had to face challenges
and obstacles in their lives. One of the greatest joys in pastoring God’s people is
the opportunity to see the transformation that inevitably occurs in lives that are
submitted to the Lord.
I don’t have to look very far in our congregation to see parents and
children, siblings, and husbands and wives flowing together in healthy
relationships that they may have thought were impossible to save. The evidence
of God’s love, grace, and restoration is everywhere as members, young and old,
discover God’s unique purpose and plan for their lives.
As you consider membership, know that you are coming not just to a
church, but to a family that is united in faith, in hope and in love. As we worship
and serve the Lord together, there is mutual care and concern that allows us to
stand in faith and agreement for breakthrough, deliverance and restoration of
what would appear to be impossible.
As you are considering joining our church family through membership, just
know that you are celebrated, not tolerated! All of us come from so many
different backgrounds, homes and families. We come together as a family in
God - imperfect, but daily being perfected in Jesus Christ! It will be an honor for
my husband and me to be your Pastors and welcome you to our family! God
has an awesome future for Church of Joy. Let’s build His Kingdom together in
the power of all!
With the Love of Christ,
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Church Of Joy
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Reaching People in our Communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Changing Lives through the Word of God
Transforming Families through Good and Sound Biblical Teaching
Worshipping God as Community of Believers
Empowering the Next Generation to Fulfill Their Unique Purpose
Our Mission Is…
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Inviting people into a vibrant relationship with Christ and with other Christians
Creating opportunities for people to worship God individually and as families
Providing an environment where people can engage God openly
Placing our focus on Jesus as the source of our lives and the focus of our worship
Presenting the gospel of Jesus Christ as the hope for every person for a transformed life
today, and eternal life tomorrow.
Training Christians to live by biblical principles in every area of life.
Equipping and encouraging married couples, parents, and children to center their lives on
biblical values.
Strengthening families through biblical mentoring, counseling, and practical workshops on
biblical parenting, marriage, and finances.
Encouraging Christians to serve in the church with unity, strength, and the power of all.
Raising up a younger generation through academics, mentorship, discipleship, leadership
and school of ministry to fulfill the call and purpose God design for their lives.
Our Vision Is…
Church of Joy is a faith filled ministry that exists to bring the light of God’s word and the
transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ to individuals, couples, and families. We are
a voice to the younger generation that will be empowered to fulfill the call of God on their
lives and continue to influence generations to come. We stand in faith believing that God will
use our ministry to bring healing, restoration and deliverance to our homes, communities,
region and our Nation. Our multi-generational ministry crosses gender, ethnic and racial
barriers to reflect the richness of our diverse community. We are a community of faith that
operates by the principles of unity and agreement as we worship, pray, believe, give, and
sacrifice together according to biblical principles. We will teach and equip people to stand
strong in their faith and build healthy families and communities. We will be a lighthouse of
hope to all that desire a strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ to live a life of victory!
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Pastor Luis R. Reyes, Founder and Senior
Pastor
Pastor Luis R. Reyes (Pastor Louie), With a firm commitment to
the next generation, Pastor Louie has ministered to children,
teens, adults and families for over 20 years. Thousands of lives
have been impacted by his commitment to ministry
excellence, relevant biblical teaching and a “whatever it
takes” mindset to ensure that people discover and
accomplish God’s plan for their lives.
Tricia Reyes, Co-Founder and Executive
Director
Tricia Reyes, Tricia has served alongside her husband since
1997. Tricia’s compassionate, no-nonsense style as a gifted
teacher and minister in areas of financial stewardship,
biblical parenting, women's ministry and ministry leadership
promotes growth and maturity for those who desire to live
out their faith in practical ways.
Jordan Jones, Associate Pastor
Jordan Jones, Jordan is the director of Marketing and Multimedia in addition to overseeing all Creative Arts & Teen
Ministries. As a gifted graphic designer and creative arts
producer, Jordan is raising a new generation of creative
youth who are ready to impact their generation through the
arts. Additionally, Jordan serves as Associate Pastor to meet
the diverse needs of our growing youth and adult
congregation.
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Dr. Ashley Harrell, Director of Operations
Dr. Ashley Harrell, As Director of Operations, Ashley leads the
strategic efforts of the ministry through coordination of
ministry events and daily operations through all Ministry of
Helps departments. Ashley also oversees our Educational
Services for children through the Sidewalk Sunday School
Success Center Tutoring Program.
Cheryl Williams, Director of Counseling
Services & School of Ministry
Cheryl Williams, Cheryl provides a critical role for all Church
of Joy members as the Director of Counseling Services where
she is able to provide clear, practical, relevant counseling for
individuals, parents, and families as well as prayer for a
variety of issues. Cheryl also is the chief administrator for the
Church of Joy Bible College and School of Ministry which is
designed to equip a new generation of ministers to impact
the world through urban ministry.
Tina Wilson, Director of Finance
Tina Wilson, Tina manages all financial matters related to the
daily operation of ministry and member giving. In addition to
her fiscal duties, Tina is a great resource for those needing
assistance with setting up a personal budget and building a
family savings plan.
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Johnathan Glenn, Director of Worship
Arts
Johnathan Glenn, Johnathan directs all music, vocal and
worship arts teams in addition to overseeing music
production for all recording groups including Righteous
Noise, Blind to Religion, and Maddie Rey. As a skilled
musician, Johnathan offers youth training camps in voice
training, song-writing, music production, and instrumentation
including guitar, keyboards, and percussion to raise up a
new generation of worship leaders in the Body of Christ.
Angel Guzman, Director of
Transportation Services
Angel Guzman, Angel manages the ministry bus, van, and
specialty vehicle fleet for safety and maintenance. Angel
has trained over 20 individuals for qualification as CDL
license holders and is responsible for ensuring that children,
teens and adults are transported to ministry services and
events from around the Region.
Christopher Kennard, Director of
Facilities
Christopher Kennard, Chris oversees all facilities security and
maintenance throughout our ministry campus. Chris’ team
ensures that all facilities are service-ready in addition to
managing our diverse inventory of ministry supplies and
resources.
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Children’s Ministry
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Teen Ministry
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Nursery - Children’s Church Classes
Indoor Sidewalk Sunday School
Outdoor Sidewalk Sunday School
Outreach Ministry
Educational Services
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Adult Leadership Training
Success Center Tutoring Program
Church of Joy School of Ministry
Christ Life Teen Camps
Member Care
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Worship & Creative Arts
Biblical Parenting & Counseling
Financial Counseling
Restoring the Foundations Ministry
Benevolence Ministry
Altar Ministry and Intercession Ministry
Hospital & Prayer visitation
Operations & Administration
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Guest Services
Command Center/Reception
Transportation Services
Culinary Services
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Teen Leadership
Youth Group
Relentless Dance Team
Steps of the Righteous Step Team
Church of Joy Drill Team
Church of Joy Drama Ministry
Church of Joy Puppet Ministry
The Gathering
Gather at the Pole
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Church of Joy Praise Team
Church of Joy Band
Multi-media Services
Righteous Noise
The Maddie Rey Show
My Church of Joy in Real Life
Sunday
Morning Worship Celebration - Adults & Families
Afternoon Worship Celebration - Children & Teens
Teen / Performance Ministry Meetings
10:00am
4:00pm
6:30pm
Monday
No Scheduled Services
Tuesday
Outdoor Sidewalk Sunday School (Seasonal)
Success Center Tutoring
Prayer and Praise Service
3:30pm
4:30pm
7:00pm
Wednesday
Sidewalk Sunday School Children’s Ministry
4:30pm
7:00pm
Thursday
Gather at the Pole Teen Ministry
Youth Group Ministry
7:00am
4:30pm
7:00pm
Friday
Outdoor Sidewalk Sunday School (Seasonal)
The Gathering Youth & Young Adult Service
Leadership Training
Saturday
No Scheduled Services
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3:30pm
7:00pm
7:00pm
Bible - We believe that the Holy Bible, both Old and New Testaments is the
inspired Word of God. (II Timothy 3:15-17; I Peter 1:23-25; Hebrews 4:12)
Trinity - We believe in one God who exists in three persons: Father, Son and
Holy Spirit to provide spiritual power for daily living and Godly service. (John 1:1-5,
10-14; Matthew 28:18-20)
Jesus Christ - We believe in the deity of Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, His
sinless life, His substitutionary death, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to the
right hand of the Father and His personal return in power and glory. (Matthew
1:18-25; John 1:1-18; Romans 8:34; 1 Corinthians 15:1-28)
Holy Spirit - We believe that Holy Spirit makes believers new at salvation
and subsequently fills believers to empower and graciously equip them for godly
living and service and to be witnesses of the transforming work of Christ. (Luke
24:49; Acts 1:4-5, 8; Acts 2:38; Acts 10:44-46, Acts11:14-16; I Corinthians 12:1-31)
Spiritual Gifts
- We believe in the diversity of spiritual gifts and
supernatural signs that follow those who believe. Some of which include: words
of wisdom, words of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, working of miracles,
prophecy, discerning of spirits, various kinds of tongues and their interpretation.
(Romans 12:6-8; I Corinthians 12:1-31)
Creation & Fall of Man - We believe in the creation and fall of
mankind. We believe that man, through the sin of Adam and Eve is born
separated from God and in need of salvation. (Romans 5:12, 18)
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Salvation - We believe that salvation is available to all mankind, a gift of
God’s grace that cannot be earned. Any person can receive salvation by
repenting of their sins, and accepting Jesus Christ as Savior. (John 1:12-13; Romans
3:23- 24; Romans 10:10-13; Ephesians 2:8)
Water Baptism - We believe that water baptism by immersion is
commanded in Scripture as an outward expression of an inward work. Water
baptism is a declaration to the world that the believer has died and is raised
with Christ to walk in newness of life. (Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:4; Acts 10:47-48)
Holy Communion - We believe that Holy Communion is a symbol of
our union with Christ, a memorial of His suffering and death, and acceptance of
Christ’s sacrifice for our benefit for healing, health, wholeness, and new life by his
body and blood. (Luke 22:19-20; I Corinthians 11:24-25, 28)
Body of Christ - We believe that the Church is composed of true
believers and that its members should assemble for worship, prayer, fellowship,
service and teaching as we have been empowered to reach out, influence
and impact the world with the gospel of Christ. (Ephesians, 1:22-23; Ephesians 2:1922, Hebrews 12:23)
Eternal Life - We believe in the personal, literal and bodily return of Jesus
Christ in power and glory as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We believe in
the bodily resurrection of the believers as the blessed hope of the Church; the
millennial reign of Christ; and the new heaven and the new earth. (1
Thessalonians 4:13-18; Zechariah 14:5; Matthew 24:27, 30; Revelations 1:7; Revelations
19:11-14; Revelations 20:1-6)
Eternal Judgment - We believe those who have not received
salvation through Jesus Christ will suffer eternal separation from God, and will
endure eternal punishment in the lake of fire. (Revelations 19:20, Revelations 20:1015)
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Our Worship Services
Passionate Praise and Worship
By lifting our hands and shouting in exuberant praise and worship, we honor the
Lord with joyous songs, prayer and worship including dancing, jumping, and
declaring new songs of praise in addition to kneeling, bowing and laying
prostrate before the Lord in worship. (I Timothy 2:8; Psalm 134:2; Psalms 150:4; Acts
3:6-8; 2 Samuel 6:13-17; Psalm 96:1; Psalm 149:1)
Bold, Relevant Teaching
The proclamation of God’s Word renews our minds and equips us to not
conform to the standards of the world, but to become more Christ-like daily. The
Bible is the inspired and infallible Word of God which is our guide for a deliberate
exploration of the scriptures and their application in our lives in addition to
prophetic words and declarations that support the ministry of the gospel.
(John 15:7; Romans 10:17; 1 Corinthians 14:39; 1 Corinthians 12:8; Romans 12:6; 1
Corinthians 12:10; Acts 2:1-4; I Corinthians 14:1-4,18; Acts 19:1-3; Nehemiah 8:2-3; Acts
20:7)
Obedient, Sacrificial Giving
We obey God by giving our tithes and offerings. We honor God through
sacrificial, spontaneous giving that expresses our appreciation, gratitude and
reverence for the Lord. (Proverbs 3:9; 1 Chronicles 16:29, 40; Malachi 3:8-10)
Expectant Faith
We respond to the preaching of the Gospel with expectant faith that includes
prayers of salvation and deliverance, anointing with oil and prayers for the sick,
and experiencing the power of God. (2 Chronicles 5:14; Ezekiel 1:26-28; Daniel 10:8;
James 5:14 -15; Luke 4:18-19a; Luke 8:43-47, 9:6; Acts 7:31, Acts 8:7, Acts 9:1-4, Acts
10:9-10, 38, Acts 16:29; Acts 22:17; John 18:1-6; Matthew 17:1-6, Matthew 28:4;
Revelation 1:17)
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Our Culture and Our Values
God is First - The Word of God is our blueprint, the Spirit of God is our guide, the
will of God is our priority. (Matthew 6:34)
Love - We love the Lord our God with our whole heart, soul, body, mind and
strength. (Deuteronomy 6:5)
Honor - We honor the Lord with our wealth - giving our tithes, offerings, and
sacrificial gifts as an expression obedience and gratitude. (Proverbs 3:9)
Humility - We value one another and relate to one another with purity,
wholesome conversation and respect. (Galatians 5:14-16)
Unity - Our strength lies in our commitment to operate in unity, agreement, and
in the “power of all” as we submit to one another in the fear of the Lord. (Acts
2:44-47)
Sacrifice - We give financially with equal commitment to sacrifice, not equal
gifts as we all take responsibility for accomplishing the mandates given by the
Lord for our Church. (Acts 2:44-47)
Service - Serving in the church is a privilege as we respond to the needs of
others with compassion, dignity, and humility. (Galatians 6:9-10)
Wholesome Speech - We will not complain, backbite or speak negatively
against the leadership, the people, or the vision of the ministry. We use our words
to speak life. (Proverbs 18:21)
Generational Commitment - We value the up and coming generation and
will do whatever it takes to raise a new generation that honors the Lord. (Isaiah
58:12)
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Biblical Parenting - Parents will raise their children by biblical principles, not
provoking them to anger, but nurturing them and causing them to honor and
fear the Lord. (Proverbs 22:6)
Strong Families - Our families are examples in purity, joy, and strength as
healthy living, godly principles, and unconditional love empower us to have
families that thrive in unity. (Psalm 127:3; Colossians 3:17-19)
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Pastor Mark Cowart
Senior Pastor, Church for All Nations
Pastor Mark Cowart had the vision and faith to see the
unique talent, gifting and anointing on the life of Pastor
Louie. As our Pastor’s Pastor for over 20 years, Pastor Mark's
voice of authority, leadership, global vision and compassion
continues to provoke growth and insight as our ministry
continues to take bold steps to advance the Kingdom of
God.
Pastor Rod Parsley
Senior Pastor, World Harvest Church
Pastor Rod has raised a cry in our nation to proclaim justice
and biblical morality in the face of opposition. Pastor Rod’s
bold visionary approach to impacting culture has been a
powerful example of the dynamic role of the Church in
shaping our culture. Pastor Rod ministers on a national
platform of biblical morality while leading his church with
the heart of a shepherd. Pastor Rod has spoken words of
expansion, increase and authority in the life of Pastor Louie
and over the destiny of our ministry.
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Bill Wilson
Founder & CEO, Metro World Child
Bill Wilson is the founder of the Sidewalk Sunday School
model of ministry and father of Urban Ministry. Bill Wilson has
devoted his life to reaching the lost, hurting children on the
inner city streets of New York City where Metro Ministries
reaches over 20,000 children every week. Pastor Bill
personally trained and mentored Pastor Louie to endure
personal attack, financial struggles, and the difficulties of
ministering in urban environments. Bill Wilson is one of the
main reasons why Pastor Louie is one of the greatest
Children’s Pastors in the nation.
Steve Gray
Senior Pastor, The Smithton Revival Outpouring & World Revival
Church
Pastor Steve Gray led the Smithton Outpouring and showed
the power of the local church and the local pastor in
fanning the flames of revival. Pastor’s Steve’s bold teaching
and willingness to expose the failings of tradition and religion
have caused our church to advance to a new level of faith
and agreement that God desires to use the local church to
transform people’s lives. Pastor Steve’s skill and ability to
infuse strength into believers as his church has paved the
way for the kingdom to be advanced as they function in
the power of all!
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Church of Joy Membership - Ministry Commitments
Church of Joy Membership is a covenant and mutual agreement that reflects
your individual commitment to worship, serve, give, pray and participate in the
power of all.
Worship in the power of all is reflected in your commitment to regularly attend
ministry services, especially those held on Sunday morning and Tuesday
evening. These times of worship, praise and impartation are opportunities for
your health and growth in your relationship with Christ to be cultivated and
sustained.
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Service in the power of all is to your willingness to offer your time, talent and
ability to work in the ministry to accomplish the vision of the church. Serving
others at Church of Joy is a privilege and we value those who we have the
pleasure of ministering to, whether they are children, teens, or adults. Service in
the power of all is a commitment to participate, to contribute, and to serve
others as an act of honor and worship to the Lord.
Giving in the power of all requires that you agree with God’s word concerning
giving the tithe as 10% of your gross income according to Malachi 3:8-10, and
giving offerings as an expression of thanksgiving to the Lord. Giving in the power
of all also requires you to give sacrificially to special campaigns with equal
commitment to sacrifice, however understanding that due to individuals’ ability
to give, there will be differing gifts. Giving in the power of all is your commitment
to help our church remain financially strong.
Praying in the power of all allows our congregation to remain mindful of our
dependence on the vision, wisdom, and strength of the Lord. Luke 18:1b states,
“that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;”. Our Tuesday Prayer and
Praise service is foundational to our ministry taking ground in the spirit and
securing the victory as we stand against evil spirits that come to attack our
families, our communities, and the up and coming generation. Our commitment
to pray as a church body is our opportunity to partner with God to bind on
earth, what He has bound in heaven and loose on earth, what God has loosed
in heaven. Our church body is strong as we stand in our authority in prayer.
Participation in the power of all sets the standard of agreement and mutual
commitment to every part of our ministry vision. Whether our services are for
children, teens, adults, or families, we commit to full participation and willingness
to serve in whatever way is needed. We take the mandate that has been given
to us as a very serious matter and we take responsibility for accomplishing the
kingdom directives that are shared by our Pastor. We not only participate to
show our agreement, we recognize that our participation in the ministry of our
church is one way that the Lord ministers healing, deliverance, wisdom and
counsel to our families as we honor the Lord and worship Him together.
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Membership & Making the Vision a
Reality
The Power of All is the strength, might, dominion and ability that is exercised and
evident when a unified group of individuals work together collectively and
collaboratively toward the same goal with the same mind, the same intention,
the same strength, and the same commitment.
The Power of All is the multiplied strength that emerges when the individualism is
rejected in favor of the ministry goal.
The Power of All is an expression of humility that acknowledges the importance
of others and the necessity of collaboration and sacrifice in order to achieve the
goal.
The Power of All requires people to put on the character of Christ and not seek
to serve themselves, but to become great only by being the servant of all.
God Requires Unity and Community
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The Bible can only be understood in terms of community.
Promises of God are corporate promises
The gifts of the spirit are to help preserve community and to equip us to fit
together with each part contributing and making a difference.
Ecclesiastes 4:8-10 (AMP)
8 Here
is one alone—no one with him; he neither has child nor brother. Yet there
is no end to all his labor, neither is his eye satisfied with riches, neither does he
ask, For whom do I labor and deprive myself of good? This is also vanity
(emptiness, falsity, and futility); yes, it is a painful effort and an unhappy
business.9 Two are better than one, because they have a good [more satisfying]
reward for their labor;10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow. But woe to
him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!
The Power of All is God’s Mandate for Believers
Romans 12:1 - 5 (AMP)
12 I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the
mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all
your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated)
and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service
and spiritual worship
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.2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to
its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire]
renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may
prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God,
even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
3 For
by the grace (unmerited favor of God) given to me I warn everyone
among you not to estimate and think of himself more highly than he ought [not
to have an exaggerated opinion of his own importance], but to rate his ability
with sober judgment, each according to the degree of faith apportioned by
God to him.4 For as in one physical body we have many parts (organs,
members) and all of these parts do not have the same function or use,
5 So
we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and
individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another].
We are Called to Operate in the
Power of All
Ephesians 4:1-6 (AMP)
4 I therefore, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to and beg you to walk (lead a
life) worthy of the [divine] calling to which you have been called [with behavior
that is a credit to the summons to God’s service, 2 Living as becomes you] with
complete lowliness of mind (humility) and meekness (unselfishness, gentleness,
mildness), with patience, bearing with one another and making allowances
because you love one another.
3 Be
eager and strive earnestly to guard and keep the harmony and oneness of
[and produced by] the Spirit in the binding power of peace.4 [There is] one body
and one Spirit—just as there is also one hope [that belongs] to the calling you
received—
5 [There
is] one Lord, one faith, one baptism,6 One God and Father of [us] all,
Who is above all [Sovereign over all], pervading all and [living] in [us] all.
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The Power of All is A Weapon of
Warfare
Philippians 1:27 - 28 (AMP)
27 Only
be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will
be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come
and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in
united spirit and purpose, striving side by side and contending with a single mind
for the faith of the glad tidings (the Gospel).
28 And
do not [for a moment] be frightened or intimidated in anything by your
opponents and adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear
sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token
and evidence] of your deliverance and salvation, and that from God.
The Power of All Must be Pursued on Purpose
1 Peter 3:11 (AMP)
11 Let
him turn away from wickedness and shun it, and let him do right. Let him
search for peace (harmony; undisturbedness from fears, agitating passions, and
moral conflicts) and seek it eagerly. [Do not merely desire peaceful relations
with God, with your fellowmen, and with yourself, but pursue, go after them!]
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Reasons for Disunity
Jealousy & Competition - James 3:16 (AMP)
16 For
wherever there is jealousy (envy) and contention (rivalry and selfish
ambition), there will also be confusion (unrest, disharmony, rebellion) and all sorts
of evil and vile practices.
Scoffing at and Mocking the Vision - Proverbs 22:10 (AMP)
10 Drive
out the scoffer, and contention will go out; yes, strife and abuse will
cease.
Gossip & Backbiting - Proverbs 26:20 (AMP)
20 For
lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention
ceases.
Selfishness - 1 Peter 3:8-9 (AMP)
8 Finally,
all [of you] should be of one and the same mind (united in spirit),
sympathizing [with one another], loving [each other] as brethren [of one
household], compassionate and courteous (tenderhearted and humble).
9 Never
return evil for evil or insult for insult (scolding, tongue-lashing, berating),
but on the contrary blessing [praying for their welfare, happiness, and
protection, and truly pitying and loving them]. For know that to this you have
been called, that you may yourselves inherit a blessing [from God—that you
may obtain a blessing as heirs, bringing welfare and happiness and protection].
Immaturity and Carnality - 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 (AMP)
However, brethren, I could not talk to you as to spiritual [men], but as to
nonspiritual [men of the flesh, in whom the carnal nature predominates], as to
mere infants [in the new life] in Christ [unable to talk yet!]
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2I
fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not yet strong enough [to be
ready for it]; but even yet you are not strong enough [to be ready for it],
3 For
you are still [unspiritual, having the nature] of the flesh [under the control of
ordinary impulses]. For as long as [there are] envying and jealousy and
wrangling and factions among you, are you not unspiritual and of the flesh,
behaving yourselves after a human standard and like mere (unchanged) men?
Acts 2:41 - 47 (AMP)
41 Therefore
those who accepted and welcomed his message were baptized,
and there were added that day about 3,000 souls. 42 And they steadfastly
persevered, devoting themselves constantly to the instruction and fellowship of
the apostles, to the breaking of bread [including the Lord’s Supper] and prayers.
43 And
a sense of awe (reverential fear) came upon every soul, and many
wonders and signs were performed through the apostles (the special
messengers).44 And all who believed (who adhered to and trusted in and relied
on Jesus Christ) were united and [together] they had everything in common;
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45 And
they sold their possessions (both their landed property and their movable
goods) and distributed the price among all, according as any had need.46 And
day after day they regularly assembled in the temple with united purpose, and
in their homes they broke bread [including the Lord’s Supper]. They partook of
their food with gladness and simplicity and generous hearts,
47 Constantly
praising God and being in favor and goodwill with all the people;
and the Lord kept adding [to their number] daily those who were being saved
[from spiritual death].
The Church in the First Century was strong, prosperous, and
God- honoring because they lived, served, worshipped,
sacrificed, fellowshipped, and gave offerings with agreement in
the spirit of unity. The Lord added to their number daily,
because they were in unity with singleness of heart, mind,
purpose and intention.
We have an opportunity to set in motion a great wave of
increase in our ministry that will be unleashed as we commit
ourselves to function in the Power of All.
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The Power of All is a Source of Strength
Romans 12:5-10 (AMP)
5 So
we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and
individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one
another].6 Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the
grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy]
according to the proportion of his faith;
7 [He
whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who
teaches, to his teaching;8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he
who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and
superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with
genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness.
9 [Let
your] love be sincere (a real thing); hate what is evil [loathe all ungodliness,
turn in horror from wickedness], but hold fast to that which is good.10 Love one
another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence
and showing honor to one another.
When we function in the power of all, we gain the mutual benefit of
the gifts, talents and abilities that God has placed in each one of us.
Each member becomes an integral part of accomplishing God’s will
on the earth and for His people.
The Power of All allows us to see beyond our own pride, selfcenteredness, and personal comfort to allow us to function properly
in the corporate body of believers.
We are strengthened to accomplish every task because God has
richly invested many gifts in His body. There is nothing impossible to
those who function in the power of all!
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What does the Power of All Produce in
the Church?
Accountability & Support
1 Thessalonians 5:14 (AMP)
14 And
we earnestly beseech you, brethren, admonish (warn and seriously
advise) those who are out of line [the loafers, the disorderly, and the unruly];
encourage the timid and fainthearted, help and give your support to the weak
souls, [and] be very patient with everybody [always keeping your temper].
Galatians 6:1-3 (AMP)
6 Brethren, if any person is overtaken in misconduct or sin of any sort, you who
are spiritual [who are responsive to and controlled by the Spirit] should set him
right and restore and reinstate him, without any sense of superiority and with all
gentleness, keeping an attentive eye on yourself, lest you should be tempted
also.2 Bear (endure, carry) one another’s burdens and troublesome moral faults,
and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and
complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it]. 3 For if any person thinks
himself to be somebody [too important to condescend to shoulder another’s
load] when he is nobody [of superiority except in his own estimation], he
deceives and deludes and cheats himself.
Thankfulness and Gratitude
Colossians 3:15-17(AMP)
15 And
let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire
continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that
arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one
body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving
praise to God always].
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16 Let
the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts
and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and
train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things,
and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God
with [His] grace in your hearts.
17 And
whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in
the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise
to God the Father through Him.
the Power of All produces
Wholesomeness, Growth & Maturity in
the Up and Coming Generations
Titus 2:1-8 (AMP)
2 But [as for] you, teach what is fitting and becoming to sound (wholesome)
doctrine [the character and right living that identify true Christians].
2 Urge
the older men to be temperate, venerable (serious), sensible, selfcontrolled, and sound in the faith, in the love, and in the steadfastness and
patience [of Christ].
3 Bid
the older women similarly to be reverent and devout in their deportment as
becomes those engaged in sacred service, not slanderers or slaves to drink.
They are to give good counsel and be teachers of what is right and noble,
4 So
that they will wisely train the young women to be sane and sober of mind
(temperate, disciplined) and to love their husbands and their children,
5 To
be self-controlled, chaste, homemakers, good-natured (kindhearted),
adapting and subordinating themselves to their husbands, that the word of God
may not be exposed to reproach (blasphemed or discredited).
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6 In
a similar way, urge the younger men to be self-restrained and to behave
prudently [taking life seriously].
7 And
show your own self in all respects to be a pattern and a model of good
deeds and works, teaching what is unadulterated, showing gravity [having the
strictest regard for truth and purity of motive], with dignity and seriousness.
8 And
let your instruction be sound and fit and wise and wholesome, vigorous
and irrefutable and above censure, so that the opponent may be put to shame,
finding nothing discrediting or evil to say about us.
The Power of All produces Ability and
Might to Accomplish the Impossible
Genesis 11:6 (AMP)
6 And
the Lord said, Behold, they are one people and they have all one
language; and this is only the beginning of what they will do, and now nothing
they have imagined they can do will be impossible for them.
Romans 8:30-32 (AMP)
30 And
those whom He thus foreordained, He also called; and those whom He
called, He also justified (acquitted, made righteous, putting them into right
standing with Himself). And those whom He justified, He also glorified [raising
them to a heavenly dignity and condition or state of being].
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31 What
then shall we say to [all] this? If God is for us, who [can be] against us?
[Who can be our foe, if God is on our side?] 32 He who did not withhold or spare
[even] His own Son but gave Him up for us all, will He not also with Him freely and
graciously give us all [other] things?
The Blessing of God
Psalm 133 (AMP)
1 Behold,
how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in
unity!2 It is like the precious ointment poured on the head, that ran down on the
beard, even the beard of Aaron [the first high priest], that came down upon the
collar and skirts of his garments [consecrating the whole body]. 3 It is like the dew
of [lofty] Mount Hermon and the dew that comes on the hills of Zion; for there
the Lord has commanded the blessing, even life forevermore [upon the high
and the lowly].
The Power of All ensures that there our Church will always be a body
of believers ready to worship, give, sacrifice, pray, and serve to
accomplish the vision and establish God’s kingdom on the earth!
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33 | P a g e
Church of Joy is a growing dynamic ministry that is prepared to
engage the future with faith and confidence. God has prepared our
ministry as a strong unified church body, to impact children, teens,
families, and communities with the life- transforming power of Christ
to build a secure foundation for the next generation to build upon.
With our new facility, we will continue to build a legacy of unity,
strength, sacrifice, and loyalty that will cultivate the character of
Christ in our members that will cause our communities to be
transformed. God is enlarging our tents and lengthening our cords
to reach out more than ever before. We are exciting to have you
join us in membership as we continue to educate, equip, encourage
and empower God's people to know and obey God's mandate for
their lives and to stand in unity to accomplish God's mandates for
our ministry.
34 | P a g e

Member Manual Church of Joy

Transcription

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