FOCUS ON JESUS SUMMIT
The Legacy of
BISHOP S. ROBERT STEWART
In the year 2004, eight years after the birth of Pentecostal Tabernacle of North Miami, there was a historic gathering of worshippers at the first Focus on Jesus Conference. Under the visionary leadership of Bishop S. Robert Stewart, this conference became a cornerstone in the spiritual life of the local assembly, the city of Miami Gardens , and the apostolic community worldwide. His vision was for believers to devote time each year for spiritual growth and renewal.
At the start of Pentecostal Tabernacle in 1996, Focus on Jesus, was the instruction Bishop Stewart received from God. It became the mantra by which he lived and guided the flock he pastored. It was therefore no surprise that the annual gathering was convened under that name.
In 2006, this annual event was renamed the Focus on Jesus Summit. According to Bishop Stewart, the change was to “challenge the Body of Jesus Christ to rise to the highest point of attainment or aspiration”. Bishop Stewart’s core conviction was that all our actions and intentions should revolve around the teachings and life of Jesus Christ. This central theme has consistently been the guiding principle in the planning and execution of the summit and also in determining its character and objectives.
As we gather in 2024, we recognize that the legacy left by our founder must be continued. We will continue to worship the King of Kings… we will continue to let our light shine… we will continue to spread the gospel of salvation… and we will continue to be mindful that we are a body Fitly Framed Together.
Greeting
Welcome to our 21st annual Focus on Jesus Summit, themed “Fitly Framed Together”. It is with immense joy and gratitude that I extend a heartfelt welcome to each and every one of you. This summit marks a significant milestone in our journey as a congregation. It promises to be a transformative experience that underscores the essence of unity, cooperation, and participation within the body of Christ; values that Bishop S. Robert Stewart inculcated into the culture of our congregation since its inception.
In this pivotal season of our church life, the call to be fitly framed together is more crucial than ever. We are navigating a period of transition which, while filled with opportunities for renewal and growth, also presents challenges that could potentially sow disunity. As we seek to understand our roles, forge a collective ministry identity, and continue the mission of Pentecostal Tabernacle, it is imperative that we remain steadfast in our unity of spirit and faith, bringing our diverse gifts and perspectives to the service of Christ.
Ephesians 4 beautifully captures how God’s church is fitly framed together:
- By uniting around spiritual fruit and peace (vs. 1-3)
- Embracing unity under one God, in one church, practicing one set of sacraments, and holding one hope (vs. 4-6)
- Distributing grace and spiritual gifts (vs. 7-10)
- Collaborative spiritual leadership shaping the body of Christ towards its full potential (vs. 11-16)
On a broader scale, the global church is facing numerous threats from erroneous ideologies and doctrines that seek to dismantle our biblically grounded apostolic faith. These false teachings create divisions among believers on fundamental doctrines regarding the nature of God, salvation, and the last days. Moreover, there is ongoing debate and misunderstanding about the identity and operation of the five-fold ministry and spiritual gifts in the modern church. This summit aims to address these crucial concerns through a forum grounded in scriptural authority, fostering a deeper understanding and unity among us.
This year’s summit builds upon the rallying cry of the 2023 FOJ Summit to “Fight On! Fear Not!” and the confidence instilled by the “Sure Foundation” theme of the 2022 FOJ Summit. Together, we must continue to confront the forces of the devil, the world, and the flesh with a united front, much like the formidable Roman Phalanx.
As we gather for this remarkable summit, let us commit ourselves to the mission of Christ with renewed vigor and unity, standing firm against all that seeks to divide us. Together, fitly framed, we will continue to advance the cause of Christ with integrity, love, and unwavering faith.
With every blessing,
Omar A. Williams Pastor, Pentecostal Tabernacle International
FOJ 2004
Focus on Jesus Conference
FOJ 2005
2nd Annual Focus on Jesus Conference
FOJ THEMES
FOJ 2006
Focus on Jesus Summit
FOJ 2007
The Body of Jesus Christ
FOJ 2008
Experiencing the Pattern of the Tabernacle
FOJ 2009
Experiencing the Pattern of the Tabernacle [Part 2]
FOJ 2010
The Gospel of Jesus Christ
FOJ 2011
The Incarnate Jesus
FOJ 2012
The Mighty God is Jesus
FOJ 2013
Preserving the Kingdom Culture
FOJ 2014
His Glory “The Intentional, Passionate, Pursuit”
FOJ 2015
The Sole Priority is the Soul Priority
FOJ 2016
Fruit Bearing Branches
FOJ 2017
Faithful to the Faith
FOJ 2018
The Eternal Perspective
FOJ 2019
Steadfast
FOJ 2020
The Excellency of Truth
FOJ 2021
Confident in Christ Jesus
FOJ 2022
Sure Foundation
FOJ 2023
Fight On! Fear Not!
FOJ 2024
Fitly Framed Together
The
Inaugural Years: 2004-2006
The FOJ Summit began by setting a tone of awe and deep reverence for the divine kingship of Jesus.
Deepening Experience; Engaging with Scriptural and Theological Depths: 2007-2009
The summit themes invited participants to delve deeper into their personal and collective walks with Christ.
Christological Focus and Kingdom Culture: 2010-2013
A shift towards Christ-centric theology marked these themes. They provided foundational perspectives on Jesus’ earthly ministry and His sacrificial love; affirmed the deity of Christ, and challenged the community to embody the values of God’s kingdom.
The Quest for Spiritual Intimacy and Maturity: 2014-2017
Greater emphasis was placed on a personal chase after God’s heart and the manifestation of spiritual fruits in the lives of believers.
Embracing Eternity and Excellence: 2018-2021
In more recent years, the summit has embraced themes that highlight transcendental perspectives and divine excellence. Believers were encouraged to align their viewpoints with God’s eternal truths and were reminded of their secured position in Jesus.
Building Towards the Future: 2022-2024
As we project into the future, the chosen themes signify a strong foundation and unified growth. There is a call for a solid grounding in faith whilst moving towards collective spiritual edification.
Spanning over two decades, the Focus on Jesus Summit has not just been an event; it’s been a transformational journey - a pilgrimage of faith reaffirmation, doctrinal solidity, and spiritual awakening.
WEDNESDAY - JUNE 19TH
Evening Worship - 7:30pm
Bishop Steve Boyd
Unity in Doctrine
THURSDAY - JUNE 20TH
Day Session - 10:00am
Pastor Andrew Eastman
Having the Same Mind
SCHEDULE
Day Session - 11:45am
Bishop Steve Boyd
Love For God vs Love For The World
Evening Worship - 7:30pm
Rev. Sophia Gordon
Unifying the Body by Our Love
FRIDAY - JUNE 21ST
Day Session - 10:00am
Bishop-Elect Alan Todd
Discovering and Developing Our Spiritual Gifts
Day Session - 11:45am
Pastor Dorion Norton
The Body of Christ in Action
Evening Worship - 7:30pm
Pastor Andrew Eastman
Unity in Diversity: Steadfast in a Changing World
SATURDAY - JUNE 22ND
Day Session (Pastors & Leaders) - 10:00am
Bishop-Elect Alan Todd
Removing the Invisible Wall: Addressing Mental
Health in Today’s Church
FOCUS ON JESUS SUMMIT
SATURDAY - JUNE 22ND (CONT’D)
Day Session - 10:00am
Pastor Christopher Murray
The Culture Blend
Day Session (Pastors & Leaders) - 11:45am
Lady Lataya Hall
Churches that Heal: Implementing Mental Health and Social Services
Day Session - 11:45am
Bishop Wayne Williams
The Anatomy of The Body Part 1
Evening Worship - 7:00pm
Doctrinal Symposium
Moderator – Pastor Omar Williams
Panelists – Lady Sharon Webster;
Bishop Benjamin Carter; Bishop Odane James; Pastor Dorion Norton; Pastor David Elms
SUNDAY - JUNE 23RD
Christian Education - 10:00am
Bishop Wayne Williams
The Anatomy of The Body Part 2
Morning Worship - 11:15am
Bishop-Elect Alan Todd
Unity as a Testament: The World is Watching
Evening Worship - 7:30pm
Pastor David Elms
The Power of Unity: God Gives the Increase
SCHEDULE
Unity in Doctrine
BISHOP STEVE BOYD
WED • JUNE 19 • 7:30PM
Objective:
The landscape of Christianity today is diverse, with different denominations embodying unique interpretations of scripture and doctrine. While various approaches to scripture can enrich our faith, this diversity may also lead to a diversion from biblical and doctrinal truth. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the importance of unity in doctrine from a fundamental theological perspective.
The Godhead:
Jesus is the Creator of all and the only God.
a) Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning, God…”
b) Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29 – “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.”
Salvation:
Man’s fall from grace requires redemption and restoration unto God.
a) Genesis 3:15 - Introduction to the plan of salvation.
b) Isaiah 53 – The plan of salvation prophesied.
c) John 14: 6 - Concludes the plan of salvation.
d) Ephesians 2:8-9 - The process of salvation.
e) Acts 2:38 - The action for salvation.
The Church:
The church is not a building or an institution, but a body of believers.
a) Matthew 16:18 - The church revealed.
b) The Book of Acts - The Birth of the church.
c) Ephesians 4:12; - The role of the church.
d) Hebrews 10:25; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 - The glorious hope of the church.
Objective:
Having the Same Mind
Philippians 2:5; Romans 12:16; 1 Corinthians 1:10
PASTOR ANDREW EASTMAN
THURS • JUNE 20 • 10:00AM
Despite being from diverse ethnic, political, economic, and social backgrounds, believers should strive to have one mind and be on one accord. As Christians, we are commanded to love one another and model unity. Since we are diverse in so many ways, this idea of unity is a challenge. Sometimes disputes and disagreements will inevitably occur even under the best circumstances. This forces us to be intentional in our relationships as our love should be practically displayed in our interactions. We should reflect the image of Christ while providing a haven for fellow believers to thrive.
Unity is central to the fulfillment of the church’s mission. It can only be accomplished if the members are of the same mind, functioning as a cohesive unit free of divisions, while striving to minister to the needs of each other. Unity does not mean sameness; we can be unique yet be united.
• What is the mind that was in Christ Jesus according to Philippians 2:5?
• How can we promote positive attributes of love and unity allowing for a more cohesive and harmonious body?
• When there are disagreements, how can we minimize their effects and bring fellow believers back in alignment with each other and with God?
• Considering all our differences, how can we function as one united body with one mission?
Love For God vs Love For The World
1 John 2:15-17
BISHOP STEVE BOYD
THURS • JUNE 20 • 11:45AM
Objective:
What does it mean when we are told not to love the world?
As physical beings, operating in a mortal body, all we know is this life. While we hope for eternal life, and all the promises of heaven, we struggle with the reality of what we have here on earth versus the uncertainty of another life. While we are told that we are ambassadors and pilgrims, the reality is that our current home is here on earth.
The challenge therefore is to have a paradigm shift and not be focused on our earthly existence. This requires a constant awareness of the brevity of life, the continuance of life after death, and the choices we need to make to be assured of eternal life.
• Do we love the world more than we love God?
• Are our affections set on earthly matters or our heavenly hope?
Our love for God should dictate how we relate to the things of this world.
Unifying the Body by Our Love
Romans 12:10; John 13:34-35; John 15:17
REV. SOPHIA GORDON
THURS • JUNE 20 • 7:30PM
Objective:
One of the great litmus tests, to show the depth of our Christianity, is how we show love to others especially our fellow brethren in Christ. The bible records examples of brotherly love and fellowship among the early church. They shared each other’s burdens and they ministered to each other. This is a tangible demonstration of the love of God operating amongst the brethren. These traits need to remain evident in the modern Christian church.
The early church was not perfect and had their share of disputes. However, they strove to embody Godly principles and wisdom to guide them in how to resolve disputes in a Christian manner.
In the scriptures referenced in the gospel of St. John, Jesus does not suggest that we love each other; we are commanded to love. In addition to the command, we are given the plumb line by which to extend this love – “As I have loved you…” This would seem like an unattainable goal. The exploration of this command should help us to understand the love that Jesus displays and practical steps we can take to love like He does.
• What does it mean to ‘prefer one another?’
• What are some principles that we can use to demonstrate brotherly love and to honor each other?
• What are some effective strategies used by the early church in resolving disputes that we can practice today as believers?
• How can we love like Jesus does?
Discovering and Developing Our Spiritual Gifts
1 Corinthians 12:4-7; Romans 12:6-8
BISHOP-ELECT ALAN TODD
FRI • JUNE 21 • 10:00AM
Objective:
This session will provide practical guidance on identifying and utilizing spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church and for individual spiritual growth. The session aims to empower believers to embrace their spiritual gifts, understanding them as instruments for serving others and glorifying God, while also providing practical strategies for honing and utilizing these gifts in their daily lives. Drawing from passages such as 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12, we will explore the diverse array of gifts given to believers by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church and the glorification of God.
Furthermore, the session will emphasize the stewardship and responsibility of developing these gifts, drawing inspiration from the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30) that illustrates God’s expectation of us to make good use of the gifts He’s given us.
Discovering, developing, and deploying our spiritual gifts is a life-long process that requires commitment, diligence, and a heart for God and His people. We should strive to be good stewards of the gifts God has entrusted to us, using them to glorify Him and edify others. As Peter writes in 1 Peter 4:10-11, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms... so that in all things God may be praised
The Body of Christ in Action
Ephesians 4:16
PASTOR DORION NORTON
FRI • JUNE 21 • 11:45AM
Objective:
The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, provided an elaborate metaphor for the church – the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, he likened the church to a human body that, although made up of many parts, is still one body. He wrote, “For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ.” This passage serves as a profound reminder of the integral role that each individual plays in the body of Christ. Just as a human body relies on the functioning of each part, so does the church require the active participation of all its members. The key is that all the parts of the body must function together in harmony, to make forward movement and progress.
God has intentionally given each of us different abilities and gifts for a purpose. There are no insignificant roles in the body of Christ. This session will highlight the call to action inherent in being part of the body of Christ. The metaphor of the body in scripture brings to light the importance of unity, diversity, and individual significance within the church. Each part, regardless of its function, contributes to the overall health and effectiveness of the body. Similarly, each member of the church, regardless of their gift, contributes to the fulfillment of God’s purpose and the advancement of His kingdom. We will discuss how the diverse gifts and talents within the church can work together to fulfill God’s purpose.
Unity in Diversity: Steadfast in a Changing World
1 Corinthians 12:13-25; 1 Corinthians 15:58
PASTOR ANDREW EASTMAN
FRI • JUNE 21 • 7:30PM
Objective:
The tower of Babel (Gen 11:1-9) and the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) are significant Old and New Testament accounts of the power of a united people. In writing 1 Corinthians 12:1214, Paul acknowledges the church’s diversity while emphasizing their unity in Christ. Paul further implores the saints throughout his writings to be of one mind.
As the church is diverse, so are the challenges faced in the world. Yet, the church is required to be steadfast and unmovable (1 Cor. 15:58), even amid whatever is going on around us.
A diverse group of called out people, are called to be united to impact a diverse world that needs to hear the unchangeable gospel.
As salt and light, how can the church remain steadfast in a changing world amongst:
• Cultural diversity
• Diversity in class and social status
• Ethnic diversity
• Diverse gender identities
SESSION FOR PASTORS & LEADERS [IN COLLABORATION WITH CARE INC.]
Removing the Invisible Wall: Addressing Mental Health in Today’s Church
Isaiah 61:1-3
BISHOP-ELECT ALAN TODD
SAT • JUNE 22 • 10:00AM
Objective:
Challenges to the mental health of Pastors and leaders in ministry commonly involves stress and burnout, marriage and family adjustment, and emotional and functional impairment. Work-related stress and burnout among pastors and ministry leaders have been the focus of many studies. Some research suggests that burnout results from systemic factors including bureaucracy, poor administrative support, and difficult work conditions. In addition, one research found that pastors experience excessive guilt and issues with their families of origin more frequently than other groups. They also experience social isolation, extending even to their professional peer. This is often as a result of the high level of confidentiality they must uphold or the limitation of transparency due to the superman complex.
This session seeks to:
• Address the common challenges to mental health faced by church leaders.
• Provide tools for coping and self-care from a biblical perspective.
Biblical self-care is the practice of taking care of our mind, body, spirit, and soul so that we may become powerful vessels that God can use to bless others.
As a visionary, Bishop S. Robert Stewart has explored many avenues to spread the gospel, the Focus on Jesus (FOJ) Summit being one. Over the past twenty-one years, the FOJ Summit has consistently embraced a range of divinely inspired themes. Each has been carefully chosen by our Bishop with the purpose of deepening congregational engagement in the study of scripture and strengthening the faith of all attendees. These themes have ranged from exploring the facets of Jesus’ ministry and His teachings to focusing on practical aspects of living a Christ-centered life in the modern world.
The impact of the FOJ Summit on the congregation cannot be overstated. It has been a source of spiritual revival and profound transformation for many. By congregating annually, to focus solely on the figure of Jesus, attendees have found a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to their faith. One of the features of the FOJ Summit has been the many live recordings and album releases. In
addition to recordings of the Tabernacle Choir, Bishop Stewart has challenged many individuals to embark on musical projects, creating platforms for the development of their God-given gifts. As a worshipper and former recording artist, Bishop Stewart understood the impact of music and the value of investing in training. He engaged the services of industry professionals, to hone the gifts that he identified, thus investing in the ministries and lives of those who were privileged to benefit from the exposure.
The Summits also provided opportunities for visual illustration of the gospel message through live theatrical productions, life-size displays e.g. The Tabernacle, and literary publications. The opportunities to work on these major projects developed a spirit of excellence in the congregants which Bishop Stewart embodied. Pentecostal Tabernacle also gained exposure and increased evangelism opportunities through these ventures.
These initiatives are demonstrative of the personal interest that Bishop Stewart took in the lives of his congregants. As a pastor, he developed relationships with all age groups. As one young person says of him, “He made everyone feel they were one of one.” The seniors felt they were the most special group while the youth humored them being confident they were daddy’s special children. At the same time, the little ones, including Pentab Academy students, knew that they provided their pastor with the stress relief he needed and valued. Such was the all-encompassing personality of the giant in our midst.
The impact of the Focus on Jesus Summit can be attributed in part to the team that Bishop Stewart assembled and guided over the years. Always the encourager, his leadership style as led by God, was sometimes directive and other times collaborative. Whatever the style, his leadership has always challenged and motivated team members to rise above the expectations of their abilities. Bishop Stewart was a true servant leader. He taught servant leadership from a biblical perspective and demonstrated it in the exemplary life he lived. There was nothing he asked
his congregants to do that he was not willing to do himself.
There is no doubt that Bishop Stewart was a visionary. He was God-directed and God-focused. He was obedient to God as he sought to fulfill the mandate given to him. He developed and cared for people. He was purposeful and intentional, knowing that the vision needed the input of others. He understood the concept of planting, allowing others to water, and trusting God for the increase.
Pentecostal Tabernacle International is challenged to continue the work from the vision received by Bishop Stewart. As he said of the summit’s objective, “not to celebrate a church anniversary but to celebrate Jesus Christ.” We can conquer this mountain without fear. We have the Lord on our side, the lessons from Bishop S. Robert Stewart, and we are Fitly Framed Together with all that we need to be victorious.
SESSION FOR PASTORS & LEADERS [IN COLLABORATION WITH CARE INC.]
Churches that Heal: Implementing Mental Health and Social Services
Isaiah 61:1-3
SIS. LATAYA HALL
SAT • JUNE 22 • 11:45AM
Objective:
A healthy church is a healing church. The church is a place of refuge and support for many people. Research shows that people often seek a faith leader before they will see a mental health professional for psychological issues. Churches have a unique opportunity to offer support and help to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. The church can provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can express their feelings and receive help without fear of judgment.
This session seeks to:
• Explore how social and behavioral health initiatives, when guided by biblical principles, help members of the church to navigate life’s challenges.
• Foster a greater sense of purpose, servanthood, and unity in the body of Christ.
• Discuss strategies and approaches to implement social and behavioral health initiatives in local assemblies.
SESSION FOR CONFERENCE ATTENDEES
The Culture Blend
1 Corinthians 9:19-23
PASTOR CHRISTOPHER MURRAY
SAT • JUNE 22 • 10:00AM
Objective:
This discussion will be centered around shared experiences of individuals, from various cultural backgrounds, as they attempt to integrate into an assembly. It will allow for reflection, examination, and a practical approach to how we relate to our differences. The goal is to assist us to evangelize across cultural barriers, to be culturally sensitive, and to help us to be more welcoming.
We will discuss how to:
• Assist with the assimilation into a new culture group
• Determine the balance between assimilation into… and maintenance of…
• Respect differences yet promote the Kingdom culture
• Be other-minded as taught by Paul in 1 Corinthians 9
• Adjust our programs and protocols to be welcoming
• Promote and facilitate the spirit of unity even while celebrating uniqueness
SESSION FOR CONFERENCE ATTENDEES
The Anatomy of The Body Part 1
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
BISHOP WAYNE WILLIAMS
SAT • JUNE 22 • 11:45AM
Objective:
The human body is very complex. It is comprised of many systems that interact with each other to benefit the whole. Our bodies are made up of eleven systems, each of which has been designed to fulfill a different function.
1. The Circulatory System The body’s transport system.
2. The Digestive System Transforming food to energy.
3. The Endocrine System Produces hormones that control body functions.
4. The Immune System The body’s main defense against foreign substances.
5. The Muscular System Provides movement; some are involuntary while some are consciously controlled.
6. The Nervous System The controlling and communication system of the body
7. The Integumentary System Enwraps the body to protect and regulate temperature.
8. The Reproductive System Allows for the continuation of human life.
9. The Respiratory System Brings in oxygen needed to get energy from the food we eat and removes carbon dioxide.
10. The Skeletal System Shapes and supports the body, protects organs, and works with the muscular system to help the body move.
11. The Excretory System Filters out waste and purifies the blood.
The functions performed by each of the eleven body systems are directed toward maintaining homeostasis, a stable environment. All body systems are constantly adapting to both external forces and internal pressures to help the body maintain homeostasis.
• How is the spiritual body similar to, or how does it differ from, the physical body?
• What are the systems of the spiritual body?
• How does the spiritual body maintain homeostasis?
• What aspects of the interconnection in the spiritual body aid its function?
Objective:
Doctrinal Symposium
Acts 2:36-47; 1 Timothy 4:1-6; Matthew 15:8-9
PASTOR OMAR WILLIAMS
Panelists – Sis. Sharon Webster; Bishop Benjamin Carter; Bishop Odane James; Pastor Dorion Norton; Pastor David Elms
SAT • JUNE 22 • 7:00PM
The doctrine of the church has always been the fundamental factor around which it unified, experienced discipleship and healthy growth, and executed the commission. Consistent, coherent teaching, referred to as the “Apostles Doctrine,” precipitated the ideal community lifestyle of the first-century apostolic church (Acts 2:42-47).
This forum, in the form of a panel discussion, will be facilitated by teachers in various biblical doctrines fundamental to the Apostolic Faith. Attendees will be able to ask questions on issues related to doctrines.
The Anatomy of The Body Part 2
BISHOP WAYNE WILLIAMS
Unity as a Testament: The World is Watching
John 17:21
BISHOP-ELECT ALAN TODD
SUN • JUNE 23 • 11:15AM
Objective:
In this session we will explore how our unity, as a church, serves as a powerful testament, to the world, of God’s love and truth. Unity is not merely a theoretical concept, but a practical reality that has profound implications for the way we interact with and impact the world.
In John 17:20-23, Jesus prays not only for His disciples, but for all who would ever believe in Him. His request is for unity among His followers, mirroring the unity He enjoys with the Father. This unity serves as a testimony to the world that Jesus was sent by the Father, and that God loves them as He loves Jesus. Here, unity is not an end in itself, but a means to demonstrate God’s love and truth to the world.
So, how can we practically demonstrate this unity to the world around us?
• Firstly, we can strive to maintain peace and harmony within our church communities. This requires humility, patience, and a willingness to forgive and bear with one another’s weaknesses.
• Secondly, we can work together in ministry and service, using our diverse gifts and abilities to edify the church and serve the world. Just as the parts of the body cooperate for the health of the whole, so we can cooperate in the work of the Gospel.
• Thirdly, we can stand united in our witness to the world. Our unity in faith and love can serve as a powerful testimony to the truth of the Gospel and the love of God.
Objective:
The Power of Unity: God Gives the Increase
PASTOR DAVID ELMS
We are called to unite, contributing our unique gifts and talents, to accomplish the tasks of the church. However, we are reminded that ultimately the results can only be attributed to God. As we fulfill our Kingdom assignments, this truth should serve to ground and humble us. Regardless of our position, roles, and giftings, each of us is only a part of the big picture. Everything that we do is dependent on God for the result.
Our goal therefore should be:
• Obedience to God’s commands rather than a focus on results
• Working together rather than trying to be a ‘lone ranger’
• Ascribing glory where it belongs – to God
Unity will allow us to accomplish what we set out to do – good or evil, positive or negative. A united group being directed by God, who acknowledge and recognize God’s role in their endeavors, is a force to reckon with.
