Becoming a Force for Good in Our Community
Have you ever considered what it truly means for the Church to be a force for good in the world? It’s easy to think of church as just a Sunday gathering or a place to hear a message, but Jesus envisioned something far greater. Over two thousand years ago, He made a bold promise to build His Church—a living, breathing movement that would transform lives and communities. Today, that promise is still alive and well, and as Centerpoint Church, we have a unique opportunity to reimagine our impact and continue the mission Jesus set in motion.
The Enduring Promise of the Church
In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus lays out a vision for His followers that transcends time and space: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This Great Commission was not just for the disciples—it’s for all of us, collectively, as the Church. It’s a promise that Christ’s mission would continue, empowered by His authority and guided by His presence. For over two thousand years, this promise has propelled the Church forward, through trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Today, we are part of that story, called to reimagine what it means to be the Church in our generation.
A Collective Call to Action
The Church was never meant to be a passive institution; it was designed to be a vibrant, active community united under one mission. Acts 2:22-24 describes the bold beginnings of the early Church, a community that was marked by radical love, generosity, and service: “Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”
This early Church wasn’t just a group of individuals—it was a unified body that moved together to spread the message of Jesus. They understood that their collective impact could change the world, and it did. Today, as Centerpoint Church, we have the same potential to turn our community upside down.
Reimagining Our Role as a Church
Our role is not just to gather on Sundays but to engage with the world around us every day. As a church, we are called to be a beacon of hope, a place where people can find love, acceptance, and purpose. When we come together, combining our unique gifts and passions, we can have a profound impact on our community.
Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:58 challenge us as a church body: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
This verse is a powerful reminder that our collective efforts are not wasted. When we commit ourselves to God’s work—together—amazing things happen.
How We Can Be a Force for Good Together
So, what does it look like for us, as Centerpoint Church, to be a force for good in our community? It starts with a unified vision and a commitment to work together. Here are some ways we can reimagine our impact as a church:
Collective Outreach and Service:
We have numerous opportunities to serve our community as a church family. By partnering with local organizations, hosting community events, and meeting the needs of our neighbors, we can show the love of Jesus in practical, meaningful ways. When we serve together, our impact is magnified, and the message of Jesus reaches further.
Building a Culture of Generosity:
The early Church was known for its radical generosity. Acts 4:32-35 describes how the believers shared everything they had, ensuring that no one was in need. As a church, we can embrace this same spirit of generosity—whether through financial giving, volunteering time, or sharing resources. Together, we can create a culture where generosity is a defining characteristic, reflecting God’s love to those around us.
Creating Spaces for Connection and Growth:
Church is not just about what happens on Sunday; it’s about building a community that supports one another throughout the week. By fostering strong relationships, encouraging one another, and holding each other accountable, we can grow deeper in our faith and extend our reach. Small groups, Bible studies, and community gatherings are great ways to stay connected and grow as a church family.
Mobilizing for Local and Global Missions:
Our mission field isn’t limited to our local community; it extends around the world. By supporting missionaries, participating in mission trips, and contributing to global outreach efforts, we can be part of the broader mission to make disciples of all nations. Together, we can have a global impact that aligns with the Great Commission.
Praying Together for Boldness and Guidance:
Prayer is a powerful tool that unites us and aligns our hearts with God’s purpose. Acts 4:31 highlights the early Church’s commitment to prayer: “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” As a church, we can come together in prayer, seeking boldness, wisdom, and guidance as we navigate our mission.
Imagining the Future Together
Imagine a future where Centerpoint Church is known not just as a place of worship, but as a catalyst for change in our community—a place where people of all backgrounds come together with a shared purpose: to make Jesus known. A church that is vibrant, active, and engaged, working together to spread hope and love to every corner of our community and beyond.
We have the chance to reimagine our impact and embrace the calling God has placed on us as a church. Together, we can turn our community upside down with the love and hope of Jesus. This is our opportunity, our mission, and our collective call. Let’s step into it with faith, courage, and unity.
The best is yet to come, and we’re excited to be on this journey with you.
At Centerpoint, we know that you weren’t designed to do this alone, and we invite you to be part of our vibrant and diverse community in Valrico, Florida, part of the greater Tampa Bay area. Preview one of our services, streaming live at 11am EST every Sunday, or simply join us on a Sunday morning.