At the ACC after-school tutoring program a few weeks ago Pastor David casually mentioned to me that he and Sobeyda were going to be hosting a refugee family from El Salvador. My heart jumped with excitement...what an opportunity for ACC to show the love of God! I also was encouraged by their willingness to share their living space with strangers, knowing they give so much already as a Pastor and Counselor. The next day Carolina and her almost 11 year old son Onandy arrived....
When pointing out something that is taught in the Bible, it is not uncommon to hear people respond by saying, "But that's just your interpretation." Often this comment is made as an attempt to invalidate your point and end the discussion. How should we respond to this remark? First, it is helpful to acknowledge the truth of what the person is saying. The point you have j...
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In a well-known episode of the old television series The Twilight Zone, a spaceship lands on earth piloted by extraterrestrials called the Kanamits. The arrival of these 9-foot-tall aliens sparks fear in the hearts of people throughout the world, until one of their leaders explains to a room of U.N. delegates that they have come to earth simply to share their advanced tech...
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The Bible teaches that every Christian is entrusted with spiritual gifts or abilities, given to them by the Holy Spirit (Rom. 12:6). These gifts are given to individuals, but they are not given for individuals; they are given for the well-being of the entire church (1 Cor. 12:7). God desires for each of his children to find ways to use their gift (1 Pet. 4:10). This autum...
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Of the many local churches mentioned in the New Testament, one of the most compelling congregations is the church in Antioch described in the book of Acts. The church in Antioch is notable for its resilience in the face of persecution, its commitment to personal evangelism, its spiritual giftedness, its prayerfulness, its missionary zeal, its compassion for the poor, and i...
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Followers of Christ are often reluctant to discuss their deeply held convictions with unbelievers. Sometimes we fear that such discussions will lead to fights and hurt feelings. Other times we are afraid we will not know how to answer the questions or objections that people raise. Often the thought of discussing our convictions overwhelms us, because we feel that it is our...
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It is easy to feel isolated during the time of COVID. Yet it is so important to stay in touch with others and stay encouraged in our faith. Community Groups are a great way to connect with brothers and sisters in Christ. ACC Community Groups will be starting in October. The groups will meet by zoom and will run for 8 weeks, ending just before Thanksgiving. The groups wil...
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When I was in junior high, my mother taught me to spend some time every day reading the Bible. (Thanks, Mom!) But it was not until I was a young adult that I began the practice of working through the whole of Scripture over the course of a year. I have been doing this now for close to 30 years, and I have found it to be one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I...
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This fall at ACC we are offering a 10-week course called "Core Christianity 101." The name of the class may sound like it is for beginners, but don't be fooled by the title. Though the class would be great for those new to the Christian faith, the material is far from simplistic. "Core Christianity" is based on a book by Dr. Michael Horton, professor of theology at Westmi...
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