If a church is going to cultivate a culture that is consistent with the mission of Jesus, it must acknowledge that there are two gaps that exist with every believer and local church.
THE GOSPEL GAP
What is the gospel gap? Most Christians know that their sins have been forgiven (past grace) and that they have eternal life (future grace), but they struggle to know how the grace of Christ transforms them in the here and now (present grace).
How does Jesus' life, death, resurrection, ascension, sending of the Spirit, present intercession and promised return enable you to face the challenges of daily life? How does the grace of Christ enable you to love your spouse, child, face a trial, or even a blessing in the PRESENT?
What is true of every Christian is equally true of every congregation. We need to know how the grace of the Gospel transforms our daily lives.
THE MINISTRY GAP
What is the ministry gap? Most Christians know other brothers and sisters in Christ at a casual level. We know their name, family members and where they may live, but that is often all we know. We don't know much about their daily struggles. When a crisis hits, leaders jump in and formal ministry begins. What is often missed is the daily life on life ministry where we are known and encouraged to grow on a daily basis.
How many people really know what you are going through right now? Your challenges, signature struggles with sin and suffering. Do you have people who know your daily challenges? Sadly, too many Christians lead an isolated, private life.
What is true of every Christian is equally true of every congregation. We need others who know us well to help us grow in grace.
The Institute for Pastoral Care exists to help close these two gaps so that the local church becomes a place of grace and growth.
The Institute for Pastoral Care is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. Donations are tax-deductible.