August 2, 2024

Dear Church Family,

We live in a “me first” society. Our culture preaches a self-focused doctrine that tells us to think of our interests first, follow our hearts, and push others down on our way to the top. It shouldn’t shock us when the worldly culture thinks and acts this way. What should shock us is when Christian culture adopts this philosophy. It’s even more shocking when that philosophy emanates from the top. As I read 3 John this morning, I came across John’s sober warning about a man named Diotrephes.

3 John 9-10 (ESV)
I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. 10 So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church.

Diotrephes must have been in some position of leadership in the church, since he challenged John’s authority and was able to put people out of the church. Shockingly, instead of using his position to serve others, he used it to put himself first. Jesus had taught the complete opposite. John probably vividly remembered Jesus’ teaching after he and his brother asked to sit at Jesus left and right hand.

Matthew 20:25-28 (ESV)
But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Jesus’ way is completely different than the world’s way. We need to look to Him for how we think, act, and live. I love John’s wise words, “Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good” (3 John 11a). How have you imitated the world’s ways? Do you like to put yourself first? Have you adopted a “me first” thought pattern?

Philippians 2:3-5 (ESV)
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus

–Dave Bronleewe

What’s Happening at Gospel Life:

Youth Group: Join us this Sunday, August 4th, from 5-7 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. We’ll have dinner, games, worship, and continue our study, “Who am I in Christ?”

Men’s Breakfast: We’re excited for our next Men’s Breakfast on Saturday, August 10th from 8-10 am at the Gerdes’ house. Look for the sign up sheet at the Welcome Table on Sunday.

Ladies Retreat: Ladies, mark your calendar! Our ladies retreat will begin Friday evening, August 23rd, and end at noon on Sunday, August 25th. We will be staying at the Intermountain Christian Camp in Fairfield.  Details will be available at the welcome table on Sunday, or chat with Deb Mueller, Angie Point, or Jane Jandayan.

Elder Training: Our next Elder Training is Tuesday, August 27th at 7 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. We’ll continue our study in 1 Timothy 5. Please contact Pastor Dave if you have any questions or need a copy of the homework.

Interested in Serving? We have opportunities in the welcome ministry to help create a loving and welcoming environment on Sunday mornings. There are several ways you can participate, from serving as a greeter, to providing treats, to setting up and serving at the welcome table. If you’re interested, please contact Michelle McEnulty.

Life Groups: If you’re interested in joining a life group, we have several going through the summer. You can check them out here:
https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/groups/small-groups

Request Prayer: It’s important for us to be praying for each other as a church! If you ever need prayer, we would love to come alongside you. You can always turn in a prayer request on Sundays using the Connection Card, but you can also submit a prayer request online at any time:
https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/368653

This Coming Sunday:
Growing in a Tough Spot – We’re coming back to our study through 1-2 Thessalonians, titled “Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow.” This Sunday we’ll be in 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4 and hear about the remarkable circumstances in which the church is growing.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW5IMNeRoI99I-QNoGMnuWDy6Y5svTt_c