New to church? You need to know that we are a group of messed up people here at Real Life, so if that’s you, you’re in good company. We know that going to church can be confusing and possibly intimidating, so we wanted to help you understand what we do, and why we do it. You can read some explanations below to learn more. We hope it helps you!
Why do we sing songs?
Singing calls to mind the truths of what we believe and gives our praise and worship to God. The intention is not for it to be a concert we watch, but something Christians participate in because God deserves our praise.
What is communion?
This practice was established by Jesus at his last meal with his closest followers before he died on the cross and rose again. Jesus tells us to practice this to remember the sacrifice he made for us. The bread represents his body, and the juice represents his blood, both in death and in resurrection, to pay for our sins. If you don’t believe in Jesus we invite you to not participate in taking the bread and juice and instead use the time to reflect on what you’ve heard.
Why do you teach a lesson?
Often referred to as a “sermon,” or “message,” is a time to more deeply understand the Bible. We do this because the Bible isn’t just ancient text with advice- it is God’s very word to us. Though humans wrote it, it was divinely guided, and we want to be transformed by God to live for Him.
Why do you ask people to give?
Giving is something God has told us to practice. We believe we are stewards of all God has given us and are to be joyful givers to the work of God. Giving is an act of trust in God, and if you’re checking out church, we invite you to first know and love Jesus so your motivation for giving is properly motivated. Feeling obligated or manipulated is not a reason to give.
What is prayer?
Prayer is simply talking to God. Often this has a posture of eyes closed and heads bowed to help us focus on Him.
What is church?
The true meaning of “Church” is not just a Sunday gathering, it just means “called-out congregation.” It has more to do with the people than the event. To be the church means to be a people who are committed to loving and following Jesus. As we live for Him, He has called us to live in community with other believers to continue to help one another grow in Him and share His love with the world.
Our hope:
1) That you would give your life to Jesus- Believe that He is God, died on the cross for your sins, rose from the dead, and that it is only through faith in Him you are saved and cleansed from your unrighteousness.. and be baptized- this is your next step in following Jesus.
2) Your relationship- yes relationship- with God will grow as you understand who you are and whose you are, as a child of God. That you would give every area of your life over to God, living Jesus> everything
3) Your relationship with the “Church” would grow. That you would come to joyfully embrace the callings God has put on your live as a worshiper, connector, steward, servant, and witness.
What are some good next steps if I want to learn more about faith?
-Come to the welcome corner to get more information and meet some friendly people.
-Ask questions: find someone who loves Jesus and ask your questions. Or talk about where you are in your spiritual journey and seek greater understanding. Those are great steps to learn more.
-Involve yourself in community (groups & classes) to continue to learn and grow.
