Cornerstone

1 Cor 12:12-14 (13)

I really enjoyed working for Joe. Why? Joe, his foreman and I had established such a close relationship that it seemed as if we all thought alike. We “clicked” when we worked. When one needed a tool he didn’t have to ask for it because the other had already anticipated his need and was in the process of handing the tool to him. We worked together like a well oiled machine.

Isn’t it amazing that the human body works so well. Bones, organs, muscles, nerves, fluids, solids, cells all working together as if they had a college degree in cooperation. When I type these words on my computer I don’t even think about the process. The words just flow through my mind as a thought and my fingers automatically start punching the appropriate keys. My eyes don’t even have to leave the computer screen because my fingers know what they are supposed to do. Each part of the body takes care of its own responsibility. The blood flows, the stomach digests, the nose breathes, the eyes see, the ears hear, the back hurts. All work together in harmony.

The Church is not one local church, one denomination, or one philosophical viewpoint. It is all those who have been born again. It functions across church lines. It operates in spite of denomination barriers. It is one with Christ.

Dr. Gayle Woods

Rom 6:11-14 (11)

Joseph M. Stowell relates,” Some time ago, I was chatting with a man who consults with some of the largest U.S. companies about their quality control. Because ministry is a form of human quality control, I thought I’d ask him for some insights.

“He said, “In quality control, we are not concerned about the product.” I was surprised.

“But then he went on to say, “We are concerned about the process. If the process is right, the product is guaranteed.”

“How relevant to our Christianity.

“We tend to be more oriented to the “product” of our faith than the process.

“As American Christians, we tend to desire and demand products of righteousness, but give little attention to the process.” (Bible Illustrator)

The conversion from death (a sinful life) to life (a life committed to following Jesus Christ) is dramatic. This process is at times called “growth in grace” or “sanctification” (not to be confused with entire sanctification). From the time we are saved by the grace of God initial holiness is begun. We turn our backs on sin and begin to do our best to live a life that is always pleasing to God. To do this we follow the instructions of God’s Word carefully and endeavor to become more sensitive to the guiding voice of the Holy Spirit.

Dr. Gayle Woods