What To Expect
We are a body of believers looking to do one thing ... become like Jesus. |
Most people are a little apprehensive about visiting a new church. We hope a few words will help set your mind at ease about visiting our congregation.
Mt Hebron church of Christ is a friendly church. We are a diverse congregation that reflects the fact that God's church is for all people. The crowd often ranges in age from newborn babies (a nursery is available) to those who have seen most of a century pass. Professionally, there are those from all walks of life-from blue collar to white collar to students to retirees. We have business owners, educators, office workers, retail employees, welders, and everything in between. Educationally, we have those with Graduate degrees as well as those who have not spent much time in school. Most fall into the category of high school graduates to college bachelor's degrees. Churches of Christ are diversified-people of all races and nationalities worshiping and working together as God's children (Acts 10:34-35).
|
We love visitors!
|
At the sermon's end, the Lord's invitation is offered (Matthew 11:28-30) for any who want to become Christians or rededicate their lives to God. There is no coercion. During the Sunday morning service, the communion/Lord's Supper is observed by partaking of unleavened bread and fruit of the vine (1 Corinthians 11:23-29). Members make a financial offering for the poor and the spread of the gospel (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Guests are not expected to give. The service lasts about one and one half hours and concludes with a prayer. Guests may choose to actively participate or may sit silently in the service.
Friendly Mt Hebron church strives to be a 'visitor friendly' church. Since many of our members were at one time visitors themselves, we know how it feels on a first visit. We make it our goal to be the friendliest church you have ever visited. We aim to treat others the way we want to be treated, just as Jesus said (Matthew 7:12). You'll receive a warm greeting and find assistance to locate your class (or your children's) and/or a comfortable seat in the worship service. You will not be singled out, made to stand, encouraged to give any 'testimony,' or in any other way made to feel embarrassed. The services are simple, reverent, practical, and meaningful. Bible-based, Christ-centered, Heaven-bound When you visit, you will meet people who, just like you, sincerely want to follow the teachings of the Bible and please God with their lives. You'll find that every sermon and class is based on the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17). In fact, members and visitors are urged to bring their own Bibles and follow along. Everyone is encouraged to participate and ask questions during the Bible Classes. We still strive to do Bible things in Bible ways, and to call Bible things by Bible names-nothing more or nothing less. We seek to exalt Christ in our songs, prayers, sermons, and lives (Colossians 1:18). An air of hope fills the church as we think of the beautiful promise of heaven for God's faithful children (Revelation 21:1). Lord's Supper observed each Sunday The church of Christ has communion every week, just as they did in New Testament times (cf. Acts 20:7). It is a highlight of the week to commemorate Christ's life & death and celebrate His promised return. Beautiful singing The whole congregation sings a capella (without mechanical instruments), just as they did in New Testament times (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). Visitors may sing along or simply listen. Many first-time visitors comment on how beautiful the singing is. Some say they find it easier to focus on the song's meaning since the words are more easily understood than with musical accompaniment. Free materials You will find free books, booklets, pamphlets, tracts, DVDs and back issues of publications displayed in the entrance areas. These are free to any member or guest. Often there will be study materials distributed during Bible classes and worship services. A personal home Bible study (open Bible or video) is available for those who want to know more. A place for everyone Christ's church is made up of all kinds of people (1 Corinthians 12:1; Galatians 3:27-28). You will find members of all races, educational backgrounds, and economic levels feel comfortable in our services. We mean it when we say, 'Everybody is welcome.' Emphasis on family and Bible school Mt Hebron church places a great emphasis on Bible classes and we have classes for all age groups. Children are important and our God-given responsibility is to assist parents in teaching them about their origin, purpose, and destiny. They should come to know their Creator, Redeemer, Lord, and Savior early in life (Ecclesiastes 12:1; Matthew 19:14). They have been born into a mixed-up world, so we try to ground them in the simple truth so they will know right from wrong. So bring your Bible and come for that visit you've been thinking about. We'll save you a seat. |