from The Elders

Paul prayed for the  Christians in Philippi that their ”love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all       discernment, so that [they] may approve what is excellent” (Phil. 1:9b-10a). Paul also told the Christians in Thessalonica to “test everything, hold fast to what is good” (1 Thes. 5:21).

 As the umbrella of teachings which claim the title “Evangelical” broadens and as false teachings continue to spread both inside and outside the Church, it’s important that we receive all teaching with discernment and test all teachings against the Bible.

 We encourage you to do this with the things you read in books, discover on the Internet, hear on the radio, watch on television, and hear from biblical teachers–including those at Neighborhood Church.

 As an example, the book “The Shack” has become very popular in recent months. However, many biblical teachers have been uncomfortable with some of its content.

 One resource you might find helpful in evaluating “The Shack” and other books is the website: www.discerningreader.com.

 The creators of this website attempt to “compare books to the written Word of God.” Their   review of “The Shack” can be found at: www.discerningreader.com/review/the-shack.

 Yet, we encourage you to use discernment even when reading these      reviews and to be diligent in studying the Scriptures. The best way to develop godly discernment is to know God’s Word. It is therefore our prayer that the people of Neighborhood Church would be people who know their Bibles, for God’s glory and all our joy.

by Dan Eckley

Parents are scattered around the outskirts of the classroom.  The     students are highly      engaged with their teacher.  The teacher is communicating joy-driven God-centered truth to both the students and their parents.

That was the scene in our Children’s Discipleship classes this last Sunday during our first back to Sunday School Day.

 It was an opportunity for parents to actually       observe what is happening in their children’s classes and to become acquainted with their children’s teachers and the Children Desiring God curriculum which we adopted this year.

 One parent was surprised to find out that an offering was taken each Sunday in the class.  Another commented about being unaware that the class sponsored a child in a  foreign country.  Many of the classes were pleased to have special snacks for the occasion!

 Teachers were delighted to meet parents and share what was happening in their classes.

 As the champion of Children’s Discipleship in this church, I am so     appreciative of our dedicated teachers and their care and concern for their students and their families. 

 Overall, I think Back to Sunday School was a very positive event and one that we will repeat next fall.

 If you were unable to  participate this past Sunday, I would encourage you to speak to your child’s teacher and take the opportunity to sit in on his or her classes sometime.