"Knowing and glorifying God is the Primary Interest of the Church!"

In order for the church to function as God has designed, it must emphasize a more full, larger, and thorough knowledge of God! The knowledge of which I speak conveys the idea of an intimate, close and very personal relationship! I'm talking about a growing, maturing encounter with God through Christ so that the Christ follower comes to know Him more and more, not just knowing about Him! In other words, we need a lofty perspective of God! It's this perspective that emphasizes knowing, and as a matter of course, glorifying God! To know God is to glorify God! The church has to abandon its perceived goal of helping people feel good about themselves. That's not the purpose of the church. Whenever the purpose of something or someone is not known or ignored, abnormal use (abuse) is inevitable! The church is not for the purpose of self-esteem, entertainment, psychology, and a host of other diversions that fall woefully short of meeting needs! As Christ followers, the greatest need we have is that of knowing and bringing glory to our God! I'm in no way suggesting that the church is to ignore people's needs, because we're concerned about people the way God is. However, I am saying that when knowing and glorifying God is emphasized, needs are taken care of! Our Lord taught us that when we seek first His kingdom, with it would come the full and detailed care and provision of God! Christ said, "Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:31-33). Seeking first His kingdom is all about giving God dominion in our lives! A kingdom is a place where the king exercises dominion! There's something very encouraging and comforting about the phrase, "But seek first His kingdom," that causes us to take God seriously! There's something very comforting and encouraging about the phrase, "for your heavenly Father knows," that causes us to take God seriously. Our heavenly Father knows, sees, and cares! This perspective enables us to glorify Him! Praise God forevermore! A lofty perspective of God is what causes us to take God seriously and walk in obedience to His Word. For the Christ follower, it just doesn't get any better! Be encouraged!