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生根建造,傳遞生命

"Take Root and Grow -- Proclaim Life"

The theme of this year's (2006) mission's conference draws on the current ministry direction of our church -- "Take Root and Grow" -- and adds two words: "Proclaim Life".

There is a big difference between Christianity and other religions or secular schools of thought.  Secular schools of thought propound grand philosophies of life and other religions promote doing good deeds such as helping the poor and needy in order to earn happiness in the next life.  However, philosophies and principles have no life.  Jesus, on the other hand, came to earth from heaven in order to accomplish salvation for the sinners of the world by dying on the cross.  John 10:10 tells us, "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." That is why Christianity is a religion that emphasizes life.  Having life is the first step.  Life can grow -- continuously and without end, so life should be "more abundant". The goal of "more abundance" is also without end.  Life in Christ, through daily taking root and growing, is everyday more abundant than the day before, and exhibits a wonderful existence that glorifies God and brings benefit to man. Not only can life grow, it can also be proclaimed.  Through spreading the gospel of Jesus' redemptive death for sinners, one can lead others to God so that they can have the life of the Lord.

How should a Christian's life take root and grow?  Psalms 1:2, 3 tells us, "But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season..." A firmly rooted plant bears fruit-- the deeper the roots, the more abundant the fruit.  On the one hand, a continuously growing spiritual life means an abundant life that can be the salt and light of the world, doing good to mankind. On the other hand, other people feel our influence and are moved; they yearn for the abundant life we have in Christ and are willing to accept Jesus as their personal Savior. In this way, life is proclaimed and passed on.  The  Triangle area is impacted and the number of people saved increases everyday, bringing revival to the church.

May we spend time to think about how our spiritual life can take root and grow, how to build ourselves up on our most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, and how to live out God's words in our daily lives, so that everyday we are proclaiming life and giving glory to God. (Pastor Alan Liang)

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