5/2/76 Phil

INGREDIENTS OF A GOOD CONGREGATION

A.� A good congregation can identify its right pastor and then remain under his authority. The people in the church don�t hop from church to church.

B.� A good congregation submits to the pastor�s authority in teaching and church policy.

C.� A good congregation has consistent positive volition to doctrine.

D.� A good congregation has stability. This means it avoids distractions to public assembly and to the daily metabolization of doctrine.

E.� A good congregation has objectivity, poise, and good academic discipline under the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

F.� A good congregation is thoughtful of others and recognizes the privacy of others. Therefore, it avoids mental attitude sins and verbal sins which intrude on the privacy of others.

G.� A good congregation follows the pastor in his spiritual advance, staying hot on his heels.

H.� Through spiritual growth and progress, they come to be blessed of God in time and are relaxed about their blessings. They are occupied with Christ, share God�s happiness, and enjoy their capacity for life. They rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. They are never �hung-up� or jealous of the prosperity of others.

I.� A good congregation means a highly decorated pastor and congregation in eternity, who glorify our Lord Jesus Christ forever.

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