Our guest speaker, Pastor Ronel Domingo discussed how the Hebrews, led by the prophet Ezra, repented of their sin of unfaithfulness and rebuilt the Temple of God in Jerusalem.  Quoting Ezra 9:1-15, Pastor Domingo said that Christians today should apply the same principles in rebuilding the church.

A. We need to tear down the old structure.

Pastor Domingo said that we have to recognize the shortcomings of the church.  The main question is have we been guilty of the sins of complacency, mediocrity, tolerance and unfruitfulness?  Have we been indifferent to the need of other people for the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ?  When was the last time you led another person to our Lord Jesus Christ?

If we are, we have to follow Ezra's example in humbling himself before God in repentance and in asking forgiveness.  Although Ezra was not guilty of the sins of his fellow Hebrews, he identified himself with the sins of the Jewish people - the chosen people of God.  In the same way, each Christian should identify with the sins of the church - the corporate body of our Lord Jesus Christ.

B. We need to reinforce the foundation.

As Christians, we have to strengthen our faith through continuous prayer and Bible study.  We have to seek God's Face.

C. We have to build a new structure.

As Christians, we have to remember our aggressiveness when we were new converts.  We have to work for the Lord as if we are starting anew.  We have to renew our commitment to God's call and be fruitful.

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