Church Search #6
Yesterday’s church search returned us to one of the previous churches we visited. You may remember that visit from my post, Church Search #4. We’ll now call this Church B in the church visits we are doing.
I dropped off Jan and Lauren at the front door, while Andrew and I parked the truck. They had already seated themselves, and we followed. As we entered, I spoke to one of the elders that I had met on our previous visit. Then I noticed someone I recognized. It was a gentleman who camped at the campground I speak at. He and his wife were there in 2010. They retired to our area from Texas and camped while their house was being built. He welcomed me and met my family.
The service was much like the previous one.
One of the elders opened with a greeting and a scripture reading.
We then sung several Christmas carols, hymns and songs. One song included a girl playing the flute with the pianist. It was very beautiful, and I think, glorifying to God.
There was then a time of corporate prayer as two gentlemen stood in the back of the service. Their prayers were different from most I have heard in my years in church. Wrapped throughout their prayers was scripture used to emphasize what they were praying for.
The pastor preached again on the will of God. The sermon itself lasted right at one hour. It was extremely complex compared to sermons I have heard in churches during my life. If I had to compare it to anything, I would compare it to a John Piper or a John MacArthur sermon. Mentally, I am definitely not used to or generally prepared to sit there that long for a sermon. However, I thought it was incredible to hear preaching that kept my attention that long. I have sat through plenty of sermons that lasted twenty-five to thirty minutes that seemed longer and could not hold my attention.
We ended with a hymn. Atypical of most of the Southern Baptist churches I have been a part of throughout my life, this church does not have an invitation. I actually like it. There is no hard sell from the pastor to walk the aisle. He seems to let the scripture and God’s spirit work in each person’s life.
We will now take a break from the church search through the next couple of Sundays and resume after Christmas. Continue to pray for us as we seek where God wants us and where we will best serve and worship Him.
I continue to think and pray for you as you go through this search.
Sounds like a good service and church experience…I’m not sure I could make an hour long sermon…but you never know!
Continuing to pray for you all during your search. I am not sure I could preach an hour long let alone sit through one. My wife says I begin repeating myself after about 30-35 minutes.
I’m a bit unusual in that I kind of like it. I would say 45 minutes might be a little better.
Admire the way you’re going about finding a new church. It is always hard and easy to second guess the process and the decision in the end. Wife and I did several years ago and it was very tough to leave in the first place. I’ll be praying for your family and thanks for sharing.
Personally, there’s nothing more I dislike than looking for a new church, but it’s such a great feeling when you do find that one where it just feels right. Good luck in your search!