“John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” But Jesus said, “Do not stop him, for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. For the one who is not against us is for us. For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward.” - John 9:38-41, ESV.

There are people in our community who serve Jesus and attend other churches. Their church does many of the same things we do. We share the same basic tenets of the faith. Their practice may be a little different from ours, but if Jesus is their Lord and the central figure of their church, they are part of His kingdom, and their destiny is the same as ours.

Like the first disciples, we need to learn that Christianity and kingdom building are not confined to any particular group. There is not a single person or denomination that bears the entirety of the Great Commission. God’s worship is not confined to a single house of the Lord. Jesus made this very clear in this passage. There is no competition among true believers.

From time to time, it is good for churches of like faith to come together, but multiple groups equal multiple opportunities to reach the world. The more churches in our town, the more opportunities to reach the masses. Having more than one congregation also multiplies the Lord's worship and glory. This is a good thing.

Pray for the believers who do not attend your church. Encourage them to stay faithful to Christ, His cause, and His church. They are not your enemy. - Pastor Mike

BTW, I can't believe I came in last at the Karate competition. I'm still kicking myself.