You are not alone.
You are part of a movement, a community, and a family that is so much bigger than you could have ever imagined.
We are halfway through our sermon series, Ekklesia: who the church is called to be. Ekklesia is a Greek word that is typically translated as “church” in English. It is derived from the verb ekkaleo, which means “to call out.” In ancient Greece, an ekklesia was a group of citizens who were called out or summoned together for a specific purpose, such as to discuss important matters of state.
The word ekklesia appears in the New Testament approximately 115 times and is used to refer to both the universal church (i.e., all Christians) and local churches. In the New Testament, the word often carries the connotation of “assembly” or “gathering” (as in Matthew 18:17, where it is translated as “church”).
The Ekklesia is the representation of God’s people on earth. It is God’s agency of change and His vehicle for carrying out His will on the earth. The Ekklesia functions as a spiritual family, with Christ as its head, and believers fulfilling various roles within the family. Just as in any family, each member has a unique and important role to play.
You are called to be connected to something more, to do something more, and to be someone more. And we are here with you every step of the way. When you connect at PTCUMC, you find a community that loves you for who you are and wants to see you grow in your faith. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, there’s a place for you.
Let us never take for granted all that God has done for us. Instead, let us always be thankful, giving him the glory and honor he deserves. Ekklesia, let us be a people of thanksgiving!
Join us this Sunday as we continue with our series and be sure to invite your neighbors and friends!
