The Most Controversial Gift of All

Nothing stirs controversy more than the gift that was first manifested on the day the Holy Spirit was poured some 2000 years ago.  We read of this is Acts chapter two.

When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. ² And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.³ Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and onesat upon each of them. ⁴ And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.  - Acts 2:1-4

As long as this "speaking with other tongues" was confined to this and a few other passages in the New Testament, most Christians had no problem with this peculiar manifestation.  But when people living in modern times began manifesting this gift it became the source of endless controversy and conflict.

If we are going to be faithful to God's Word we must be willing to examine even this - the most controversial gift of all.  This we will do Sunday at The Bridge as we seek answers to the questions:

• What is speaking in tongues?
• Is it for today?
• Must a person speak in tongues in order to be filled with the Holy Spirit?
• Why would God elect to create such a strange gift -- when He knew it would cause such controversy and even division?

Please say a prayer for me as I dive into this interesting topic!

Operation Bunk Beds

A small team of Bridge members have agreed to travel to Grenada (yes, that warm, tropical island in the Caribbean) for the purpose of constructing bunk beds for the base being established at the home of Justin and Erica Zauflik.

Over the next few weeks we hope to raise the entire cost of materials, which is $4,600. Please consider what you can do to help with this project that will make it possible for future teams to minister in Grenada.

Anything raised over the $4,600 will be applied to the cost of airfare ($1,500 per ticket) for the individuals who are going at their own expense.

Blessings!

Bo

Does God speak through people today?

Two weeks ago we asked the question; does God speak to people today?

Tomorrow at The Bridge we will address the even more controversial question; does God speak through people today -- by means of the gift of prophecy?

Don't let the weather keep you from hearing a very important message!

Besides, unlike last week's Superbowl where 60,000 people sat outside in 49 degree weather for three plus hours to watch a very one-sided football game -- it will be a balmy 70 degrees at The Bridge! Unfortunately we won't be selling nachos and hotdogs.

Connect Group Sign-up

More than 200 people have already signed-up for a Connect Group.  If you haven't done so, please go to our website and check-out all the groups being offered this semester.  You can either sign-up online or tomorrow at church.

Go to www.thebridgenky.com to find the group that fits your schedule and area of interest.

See you tomorrow!

Bo

Are Miracles for Today?

As we continue our series on The Spirit-filled Life --this Sunday at The Bridge we will be exploring the topic of miracles.

Among the questions we will seek to answer are:

• Are miracles even possible?
• Does God perform miracles through people today?
• What role does faith play in miracles?
• Why don't we see more miracles?
• What purpose do miracles serve?
• Can Satan work counterfeit miracles?

Join us for a fresh look at a very interesting and yes, controversial topic.

A Big Thanks to the Building Your Home Conference Team!

Thank you Whitney and Ali Clayton, Grant and Alecia Dawson and to the entire team of more than sixty volunteers who helped with our first Building Your Home Family Conference.

We had great attendance -- despite the weather and every speaker provided practical and insightful tips for how to create God-honoring homes where young lives can be formed for Christ.

We especially want to thank Jeremy and Amy Tye, Kim Styles, Elissa White and all those who took on the monumental task of providing child-care and a night of fun for our kids.

It was a great event! I'm already looking forward to next year!

Connect Group Fair is On!

Be sure to sign-up for one of our more than 30 Connect Groups being offered this semester! Connect Group leaders will be in the lobby between services to answer questions and help you find the group that right for you.

See you Sunday!

Bo