Practicing the Way of Jesus Together in Portland: Together in Portland

Announcing the Holy Spirit Conference

Registration for this year's Holy Spirit Conference is now open, scheduled for February 7th and 8th at Keller Auditorium in Portland. Notable speakers include theologian N.T. Wright, Pastor Gemma Ryan from Ireland, and Tim Mackey from the Bible Project, who will focus on the theme of 'the now and the not yet' related to the Holy Spirit. The discussions will cover topics such as experiencing the supernatural expressions of the Holy Spirit and its role in companionship during suffering and waiting for renewal. The event promises to be an enriching experience for the church community with musical worship led by Rich and Lydia Deakos alongside local worship teams.

The Importance of Community

A deep sense of community is emphasized as the speaker reflects on the relationships forged within the Bridgestown community over the years. Personal anecdotes highlight individuals who have played significant roles in supporting and uplifting the speaker during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The importance of authentic connections and shared experiences underscores that community is not merely a weekly gathering but an active participation in each other's lives. This collective presence allows members to embody and share the love of God within Portland.

Practicing the Way of Jesus

The concept of practicing the way of Jesus is introduced, emphasizing that this journey is grounded in relationship and community. The insights from Genesis illustrate that humans are designed for relationship with God and each other, with the essential need for community reflected in the divine nature of God Himself. The speaker stresses that without meaningful connections, it becomes difficult to fulfill one's design and recognize the fullness of God's plan. Community is framed as a critical context where individuals can collectively grow, learn, and embody the teachings of Jesus.

The Call to Love and Serve

A significant focus is placed on the concept of love, particularly in the context of loving one’s neighbor as a fundamental Christian principle. The speaker discusses the challenges of loving others authentically and the personal struggles faced in extending this love, highlighting that true love transcends personal comfort and often requires sacrifice. The significance of Christ’s unconditional love sets a precedent for how individuals are called to interact with others, fostering a community characterized by grace and service. Ultimately, this call to love extends beyond personal relationships to influencing the wider community, as members are encouraged to actively engage with their city and demonstrate God's love collectively.

Bridgetown Audio Podcast

Practicing the Way of Jesus Together in Portland: Together in Portland

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Deep dives

Announcing the Holy Spirit Conference

The Importance of Community

Practicing the Way of Jesus

The Call to Love and Serve

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