This area was added to the vision because the Overseers sensed a tendency we all have to
put our own preferences and opinions ahead of the vision of the church which is to “Glorify God through Worship, Nurture, and Outreach.” This tendency can be destructive to a church as it leads to divisiveness, gossip, and an inward focus. Jesus prayer in John 17:20-21 was “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in me through their word; that they all may be one, as you, Father, are in me, and I in you; that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” Notice the result of unity, “that the world may believe.” It is extremely important for the church to come together in unity. Paul puts it this way in Philippians 2:2
“Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.”
Here Paul focuses on unity with the emphasis on love and purpose. We love sacrificially when we give up our own preferences, even our own rights, out of love for another. This is to be done out of unity of purpose. Again, our purpose at Faith Baptist it is to “Glorify God through Worship, Nurture, and Outreach.”
So, we need to ask ourselves in all things “How is what we are doing glorifying God?” “Are people worshiping in spirit and in truth?” “Are people being nurtured?” “Are we reaching out to others, and is how we do things the best way to reach them?” Asking these questions will unite us around our common purpose. It may lead us to respond in sacrificial love, because although we may not like exactly how things are done, if it fulfills our greater purpose we will put others first.
The Overseers are also going to be proactive when they hear divisive things being said. This is not to say that you can’t voice an opinion, but it should be brought to the right person/group that can do something about it. This is the reason authority has been given to the Overseer Board, Trustee Board, Diaconate Board, CE Committee, and Worship Committee.
To help us learn how to work together in unity, all the small groups will be going through “The Peacemaking Church” curriculum by Ken Sande in the fall. This will guide us with biblical principles on how to truly live out the gospel in all our relationships. The blessings of peace will follow: strengthened marriages and families, a healthier church, and a thriving, gospel-centered ministry. Be sure to be in a small group this fall for this 8-week study.