Wide Open Doors
A MESSAGE BY PASTOR KENT MUNSEY
Missio Dei is Latin for "Mission of God." In 1 Corinthians 16, the Apostle of Paul is in the midst of serving the great commission to preach the gospel and make disciples.
But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me. - 1 Corinthians 16:8-9
"Door" in this text means wide open freedom of movement of choice. In other words,the door is a metaphor for opportunity. Paul uses the idea of an open door to describe how God reveals His mission to us.
The doors we are focusing on in this season are Missio Dei doors; doors that open or close for the purpose of the Mission of God. The purpose of the Missio Dei campaign at City Church Chicago is for Partnerships, Places and Spaces, and People.
Over the past year, we've seen God move powerfully throughout City Church in these three areas:
1. Partners:
Last year we gave just under $100,000 to global partnerships, including Compassion International, Vision Rescue, The A21 Campaign, and World Vision. We believe that there are so many that can go further faster because of our support.
2. Places and spaces:
Last year we were also able to purchase 777 N. Green Street, making it our permanent home. What was formerly a night club, is now a space that is holy and set apart; working for Jesus in the Mission of God. Since purchasing the property, we've upgraded the City Kids space, created a connect space for prayer in our lobby, and invested in improving our infrastructure (i.e. better audio/video technology and relocating our office spaces).
3. People:
City Church Chicago is on mission and willing to walk through Missio Dei doors because of people. This year alone, we have expanded to four services and are already operating at 91% capacity. We saw 3,409 decisions for Jesus in 2015, and 1,187 decisions for Jesus already in 2016. We give because we care about people.
Our God is able to open doors that no man can close, and He is able to close doors that no man can open. In the midst of challenges, obstacles, and situations that seemed impossible, we believed that God would open doors that would lead us into His mission for our church.
And, we're believing for even more this year. Over the next 5-6 weeks, will you join with us in asking God what are the Missio Dei doors He wants to open in each of our lives? Some of us may walk through the door of our calling, of praying, or of radical generosity. Whatever door we walk through during this Missio Dei season, let's feel the press from the Holy Spirit to believe God for greater things. We want to remain prayerful and hear God as he guides us in how to give of our time, our talents, and of our treasure.
PRAYER:
God, we thank you that you are able to open doors that no man can close. Father God, we are believing you to do greater things in this season. Open our eyes to see your will and to boldly walk through doors that will accomplish your mission. We thank you for the honor and privilege of being co-laborers with you. Use us for your glory, God. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen