...earlier this year I encountered a short book which reveals the qualitative, inner nature of one of our churches, St John’s Asquith, and shows the impact of the gospel in transforming people and creating churches. The book consists of 90 testimonies from members of the church, bearing witness to the work of God in their lives, frequently relating how they came to Christ. Through this lens we can see God using the gospel to bring people together, to bond people together and to bless the community....

Usually, coming to know Christ was both a process and a commitment, and a number of agents were involved. Being born in a Christian family is obviously a huge blessing; many had that experience. For some, the wonder of the natural world was a key factor. Others report spiritual experiences which frightened or awakened them. Still others went through a personal loss or crisis and it was in those depths that they sought after the Lord. The local church mattered – sometimes faith was born through preaching; occasionally the liturgy; sometimes through the warmth of a community and the love which they found there. One person even mentions the messages she saw on church noticeboards as she was seeking the Lord! A number of these testimonies are profound narratives of how people have found the Lord to be their all sufficient one in time of need. He answers prayer and preserves his saints.

Read it all.

Filed under: * Anglican - Episcopal • Anglican Provinces • Anglican Church of Australia • * Christian Life / Church Life • Parish Ministry • Evangelism and Church Growth

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