1. TRENDS What are we allowing to influence us? Are brethren seeking to change “how we do things”?

2. “For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare for battle.” 1 Corinthians 14:8

3. “…Come out from among them and be separate.” 2 Corinthians 6:17 Are we making a distinction between ourselves and false religions?

4. The Community Church Movement

5. The Community Church movement desires to deemphasize denominationalism by creating community based churches catering to social needs

6. Willow Creek, Chicago - described as first community church Saddleback Church, Lake Forrest, CA – Rick Warren Lakewood Church, Houston Joel Osteen

7. Oak Hills Church, San Antonio, TX - Max Lucado, Randy Frazee - Formerly, Oak Hills Church of Christ The Community Church movement seems to be a trend among many ultra-liberal churches of Christ

8. History A result of a progressive denominational attitude - The social gospel - Modernism – Questioning authority of scripture - Ecumenism (Unity in diversity) - Disillusion w/traditional religion

9. Foundations A community church begins with a community survey and then caters to the needs of that community (socially)

10. Its Worship Casual and contemporary – Emphasis placed on entertainment value – Variety (often options) –“ Are you tired of the same old, worn- out, boring worship service” http://www.hopealiveministry.org

11. Its Appeal Casual and fun – “Come as you are” – No pressure to participate – Convenient

12. Non-Judgmental “God loves you the way you are” – A true statement, BUT He expects repentance! – Appeals to those not comfortable with mainstream churches “The emphasis of the Community Church concept seems to be on reaching the people of a community as they are and where they are – and leaving them as they were and where they were even after they become members.” Guardian of Truth, Vol. XLIII, No. 1, Pg. 18

13. Preaching Usually a positive message – “Positive preaching movement” (Tomorrow night) – Selective topics that are “relevant” and not too condemning

14. Doctrinal Concerns: Founded by men! Emphasis often placed upon founder. 2 Cor. 11:1-4 1 Cor. 3:12, 2:1-4 Galatians 1:6-9, 2:5

15. Its appeal Desires to please man over God Galatians 1:10-12 1 Thess. 2:4 2 Tim. 4:2-4 Doctrinal Concerns:

16. Non Judgmental Unity-in-Diversity, Inter-denominational True unity according to God 1 Cor. 1:10, Jn.17:20-21, Eph. 4:1-6

17. Doctrinal Concerns: Non Judgmental Doctrinal Judgments a MUST Matt. 7:6, John7:24 - Identify and avoid Rom. 16:17, 2 Thess. 3:6, 14 - Restore the sinner Gal. 6:1, Jas. 5:19, Jude 22-23

18. Doctrinal Concerns: Worship that is casual and entertaining (Tuesday night) The Social Gospel (Thursday night)

19. The Community Church does NOT follow God’s pattern for His church and should thus be rejected!