In this episode, we explore Pastor Matt Destry's sermon "If These Walls Could Talk," the first message in the series "The Lord Is There." Discover how church buildings serve as powerful symbols of God's presence and mission in our communities, while reminding us that the true church is defined by the people of God. Join us for insights on the deeper meaning behind our places of worship!
_____________________________________________________________
Sermon Notes:
Main Idea: Church buildings are more than physical structures; they stand as visible declarations of God’s presence and mission in the community, while also reminding us that the church is the people of God.
Scripture: Ezekiel 48:30-35 (“The name of the city from that time on will be: The Lord is there.”)
Key Point: Just as ancient cities symbolised God’s presence, so do church buildings today—they act as a declaration that “The Lord is there.”
Reflection Question: What does our church building communicate about God’s presence and mission to those who pass by or enter?
2. Ecclesiology: The Church as a Living Community
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:5 (“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.”)
Key Point: The true church is not the building, but the people—believers are the “living stones” of God’s spiritual house. However, physical spaces can still serve as powerful symbols of God’s presence and invitation to the world.
Application: While the church’s mission is about the people, our buildings can still be a tangible signpost pointing to the Kingdom of God.
Reflection Question: How can we, as “living stones,” reflect God’s presence both inside and outside the walls of our church?
3. Buildings as Prophetic Witness to the Community
Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16 (“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”)
Key Point: Just as a city on a hill cannot be hidden, our church buildings serve as visible declarations to the community—they testify that “God is here.” Historically, churches have served as places of refuge and mission.
Reflection Question: What message does our church building send to the community around us? Is it a place of hope, healing, and welcome?
4. Vision and Legacy: Frankston Church of Christ and Legacy Project Update
Scripture: Ephesians 2:19-22 (“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the chief cornerstone.”)
Key Point: Our building is part of our larger mission to reach the community for Christ. It represents a legacy that will serve future generations through the ministry it enables.
5. Application: The Role of Buildings in Our Mission
a/ Investing in the Future
a/ Inviting the Community
