Publisher's Synopsis
"What is God doing in these last days? He is building strong local churches, who learn God's word, flow with and follow the leading of the Spirit" (Kenneth E. Hagin).
We are persuaded that this is God's word for his church and believers. Today, and last couple of years we have endeavored to put out written, audio and video materials, encouraging effective participation in the local church. In Hebrews 10:24-25, the writer of Hebrews speaks about the importance of not forsaking the assembling together of believers. Likewise, in 1st Corinthians, more than five times, Paul refers to the gathering and physical assembly of believers, even instructing the same. I believe that the information about the local church is critical in the days that we are in. The days of technology and remote relationships, call for a lot of reflection for believers, not to in any way be subjected to such advancement of technology, whilst we defy either openly or unconsciously the instructions of the written word. In this book, we will be studying together and examining the effectiveness of the local church. What does the local church mean? How does the local church participate in the overall agenda of God for the earth? Is the local church just a gathering of friends? Is it a gathering of people who have mere mutual interest? Or is there something that is heavenly and divine about the way we must gather, then, subject our minds to what is in the written word? We will examine also, the different characteristics of the local church, and the different features the local church should have. I believe that this will inspire Pastors, engage and equip those who lead assemblies to know how effectively this should be done. In Matthew 28:18-20, the Great Commission can be seen as a clear direction for the institution of the local church. Apart from Matthew 18:15-19 where Jesus highlighted how conflicts should be resolved, and the high point of it was in the local assembly. Then in Verse 20 he says, "where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am in the midst thereof." This shows the importance of the authority and fellowship within the local assembly. And this is the crux of this material. As believers read, we trust that they will participate much more effectively and efficiently in the local assembly and its activities. We trust also that as you read this book, meditate upon it and pray over it, you will have greater participation in the work and ministry of the local assembly, and the body of Christ generally, in Jesus' name. And as many that will come in contact with you and because of the knowledge of the Word of God in this book, I trust that it will also increase their own participation as well, in Jesus' name. I remain multidimensionally yours,Chris Segun Onayinka.
