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“Discover Hillcrest -- and a Free Lunch!”
by Tom Goodman
August 17, 2005
If you’ve been thinking about membership at Hillcrest, this Sunday would be a perfect time to attend. On August 21, I will lead the Discover Hillcrest class right after the morning service, and lunch is on us! The class
is for those who want to become members, and for those who just want to learn more about Hillcrest.
About twenty percent of those who attend Hillcrest haven’t joined, and this is normal. These days, people will attend a church for several months—or even several years—before deciding to join. Actually, I’m not disappointed in this
trend. I’m glad that people are giving careful thought to joining a spiritual family instead of just joining on impulse.
If you’re part of that twenty percent, this e-mail note is for you! I’m so glad you participate in the life of Hillcrest and support our ministry. In fact, I’m far more interested in your continuing involvement than in
just your membership. Still, membership is important. Rick Warren, the author of the best-selling book, The Purpose-Driven Life, said that there were five biblical benefits to joining a church:
It identifies us as genuine believers. (Ephesians 2:19; Romans 12:5)
It provides a spiritual family to support and encourage us in our walk with Christ. (Galatians 6:1-2; Hebrews 10:24-25)
It gives us a place to discover and use our gifts in ministry. (1 Corinthians 12:4-27)
It places us under the spiritual protection of godly leaders. (Hebrews 13:17; Acts 20:28-29)
It gives us the accountability we need to grow. (Ephesians 5:21).
If you could benefit from these biblical advantages, join me for my Discover Hillcrest class this Sunday. The class is about 90 minutes, and lunch is provided. We’ll dismiss around 2:15 p.m. Topics include:
The most important thing you need to know about Jesus.
Four fundamentals of spiritual growth, using the acronym "H.I.L.L."
Our church's key values and strategy.
How to "connect" with others in the church.
While I teach the adult class, our Children’s Minister teaches "Discover Hillcrest Kids" for children ages 8-12, and our Youth Minister teaches "Discover Hillcrest Youth" for students in grades 6-12. Childcare is
provided for children under the age of 8. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. You can register by replying to this e-mail note.
I’m looking forward to seeing you! Forward this e-mail to others and encourage them to attend with you!
—Tom
P.S. Our next baptism is scheduled for Sunday, August 28. You will need to complete a Discover Hillcrest class (adults, youth, or kids) in order to be baptized. Contact Jim or BJ or me if you have any questions!
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