John Preaching

Done well, it is the most sublime joy. Done badly, it is like a never-ending trial of the worst kind.

How fortunate I am to be part of a church where poor preaching is the exception, rather than the rule.

John Wilthew is speaking today. He preaches with eloquence fired up with the enthusiasm which comes from truly knowing God.

What I particularly like is his understanding of people's concerns and difficulties. He stops when he is speaking about the joy of being in a big group of christians and recognizes those who do not function well in such a group.

It's thoughtful. It's considered - and in so being it enables him to deliver a very powerful message in a very gentle manner.

I never feel pressurised or compelled to do things or be 'obedient' to God. Instead, I feel a love for the man speaking, a love for God, and a willingness to follow God in any way I can.

John helps me to overcome my difficulties with issues of authority and enables me to follow with joy - instead of being forced into grim compliance.

For that one thing alone I am so very grateful. It reinforces my view that different chruch settings are right for different people at different times of their lives.

Right now I am convinced I am in the right place. It's cool, because in general I am sure of so little.

Comments

[christine]

I think one of the main things we learned in our time at City Church (NFI) Newcastle was the teaching on Grace. It was sooooo liberating. Ian Galloway(and his lovely wife Heather!!!!)seemed to 'live' in the Grace of God (if I can put it like that) and it was a very apparent dominant feature in the church. It's wonderful to hear County church makes you feel like this.

[christine]

by the way............ why did John feel the need to hang a curtain from his forehead to cover his face? Is it a County church ritual or something??????