Archive for March, 2008

I Can’t Stand Christians…Who Are Hypocrites

Friday, March 28th, 2008

This weekend is part 2 of our series.  We’re talking about “I Can’t Stand Christians Who Are Hypocrites.”  I’m sure you’ve heard that one before.  It’s probably one of the most common criticisms of Christians. 

The truth is Jesus couldn’t stand hypocrites either.  As a matter of fact, it was one of his most common criticisms of the religious people back in his day. 

Invite a friend this weekend!  Below is another promo video from this coming weekend’s service.  Email it to them and invite them to come check out your church.  Tell them they don’t have to worry about dressing up or looking spiffy. 

In Memory Of Matt Elliott

Tuesday, March 25th, 2008

Matt Elliott at the age of 18 passed away this past weekend.  He fought Osteosarcoma (cancer) for three years and has now gone to meet Jesus face to face.  Fortunately, Matt met Jesus in this life and began a relationship with Him.  Be praying for Matt’s family: mother Cindy; father John; brother Michael; his girlfriend Crystal Hames; his grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. 

Below is Matt’s baptism video.  Matt was having extreme migraines and was on his way to the hospital but insisted on being baptized before going to the hospital.  For those of you who didn’t know Matt, one leg was already amputated from his battle with cancer. 

Matt, we’ll see you when we get there!

I Can’t Stand Christians…Who Are Judgmental!

Monday, March 24th, 2008

If you missed the message this past weekend, you missed out on one of the reasons, I (and many others) can’t stand Christians.  One of those reasons is because Christians many times are known for being judgmental.

We’re judgmental when…

1.  We ACCUSE people of their actions and make EXCUSES for our own actions.  When we look at how “wrong” someone else is but quickly make excuses for our own sins.

2.  We judge people by the WRONG STANDARD.  Why is it that Christians expect nonChristians to live like they’re not.  Why do we get so surprised that people who are disconnected from God live they don’t have a relationship with God.  That would be like me telling my 7mo., 70lb. Saint Bernard puppy to stop acting like a 7mo., 70lb. Saint Bernard puppy.  They never agreed to follow God so why do Christians expect them to live as if they did!

3.  We put ourselves in a better position.  Judging someone is cheap way at making yourself feel better about the way you live.  You can easily think of how “better” you are and how your sin wasn’t as bad their sin.

4.  We misunderstand God’s GOODNESS in our own life.  We judge people when we forget that the same God who died for us, also died for the person we seem to be judging. 

The only difference between Christians and nonChristians, is that one has forgiveness of their sins and one has yet to receive the forgiveness that is waiting for them.  What are you going to do, judge?

Awesome Volunteers!

Monday, March 24th, 2008

This past weekend was one of the greatest weekends ever!  We had a great time, the band did phenomenal and our volunteers were awesome.

Every week, it takes over 50 people to do what we do.  Every week, people experience StonePoint for the first time.  Every guest is greeted, directed, treated and seated in an inviting manner.  Thanks to all of our Guest Services volunteers for making everyone feel welcomed.

They’re not alone.  All of our Children’s Volunteers make our kid’s environments fun and exciting.  We have two goals for kids: 1) Love God and 2) Love coming to church!  Every volunteer is changing kids lives!  You guys give parents confidence knowing their child is going to be provided for in a safe, clean and fun environment.  Thanks!

And don’t forget, EVERYONE WHO DOES SETUP AND TEARDOWN!  You guys get it done!  Every week we turn movie theaters into a place where people can encounter God.  Every week people are making spiritual decisions!  You help to make it happen when you setup lights, sound systems, stage, cafe and resource tables.  Thanks for all you do!

If you’re not volunteering somewhere, YOU NEED TO STEP UP!  Be a part of changing someone’s life.  It’s simple, just find a place where you can do and enjoy what you already do.  Whether it be working with kids, meeting new people or serving behind the scenes.  There is a place for everyone to volunteer!  Email a staff member and they’ll get you connected.

Easter Weekend!

Wednesday, March 19th, 2008

Easter is early this year!  It’s hard to believe it’s this weekend.  We’re going to have a blast.  You won’t want to miss this message series titled:  “I Can’t Stand Christians.”

Too many times Christians are known for being judgmental and hypocrites.  In this series, we’re going to unpack how God wants us to live and how it’s much different from what we see so often.

Click below to check out a video promo.  Email the link to a friend and invite them this weekend.