We must be global Christians with a global vision because our God is a global God.
John StottRead
The church lies at the very center of the eternal purpose of God. It is not a divine afterthought.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The church plays a crucial and intentional role in God's eternal plan, rather than being a mere secondary consideration.
John Stott's quote emphasizes the integral role of the church in God's overarching purpose. He suggests that the church is not an addition or an afterthought, but rather a central element in the divine plan, indicating its importance in spiritual life and community for believers.
Themes
ChurchDivine PurposeEternal PlanGodFaith
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing the importance of community, one might quote this to emphasize the church's role.
More from John Stott
All quotes βMission arises from the heart of God Himself and is communicated from His heart to ours. Mission is the global outreach of the global people of a global God.
John StottRead
An unchurched christian is a grotesque anomaly. The New Testament knows nothing of such a person. For the church lies at the very center of the eternal purpose of God. It is not a divine afterthought. It is not an accident of history. On the contrary, the church is God's new community.
John StottRead
Saving faith is resting faith, the trust which relies entirely on the Savior.
John StottRead
It is a great comfort to know that our judge will be none other than our savior.
John StottRead
To encounter Christ is to touch reality and experience transcendence. He gives us a sense of self-worth or personal significance, because He assures us of God's love for us. He sets us free from guilt because He died for us and from paralyzing fear because He reigns. He gives meaning to marriage and home, work and leisure, personhood and citizenship.
John StottRead
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