THE GLORIOUS CHURCH OF THE FUTURE
                          Heb. 12:22-24.

Strong churches are built on strong, solid and sound preaching.

History reveals to us that the church has always had its good years and bad years--peaks and
valleys.

We are thankful for the pioneer preachers who have gone before us knowing only "Jesus Christ
and Him crucified."  And to the good and faithful men and women everywhere.  And to faithful
elders who have guarded us and tenderly fed us with the sincere milk of the word so we can be
strong.

These many have gone on to their reward but may we treasure their memory.

In times past Christians underwent many hardships.  Meeting places were in adequate--rented
halls and dark streets with poor heating in winter and to hot in the summer.

But the church experienced its greatest growth.  Members had great faith and turned their
weakness over to God.

What will the church of Christ be tomorrow?  We plead for a careful and close examination of
our faith, love and locality.

I.  FAITH.
    A.  Faith is the bed rock-foundation.  Rom.10:17.
    B.  How strong is my faith.
          1.  Do I believe in God?  The Bible?  Jesus as God's Son?  His Church?
          2.  Do I sincerely believe Christ to be the "only head" and savior of the church.  What is     
               my response to this question?  Matt.16:13-19.

II.  LOYAL.
      A.  The early church grasped this truth.
      B.   Through Jesus they had fellowship with the Father - 1 John 1:1-4.
      C.  Loyalty comes from understanding the true meaning of the church.
            1.  The cost - Christ blood - Acts 20:28.
            2.  The Purpose - Preach the word - 2 Tim.4:1-4.
      D.  Loyalty is built and maintained on conviction   not entertainment--not gimmicks--not
on              a coffee and doughnut society.
      E.  The church that is loyal can withstand anything.

III.  LOVE.
       A.  It will love Christ and all lost humanity.  Luke 19:10.
       B.  Love and loyalty go together - John 14:23.
       C.  Love endures - 1 Cor.13:13.
      D.  Love is fulfilling of the law - Rom.13:8-10.
      E.  If we really love there will not be anything we can't do in the service of our Lord.

CONCLUSION:  
1.  Faith, loyalty and love.
2.  What every physical family needs to survive.  It is also what every spiritual family needs          
   also.  Does this church have it?