Words from Pastor Merlin

Click to read Pastor Merlin's Blog
More About Pastor Merlin

Greetings Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Over the past few weeks I have been working through Dr. George Hunter’s book, “Radical Outreach” wherein he makes comparisons between the societal challenges of a modern day with those experienced by the 1st century Christian Church in Corinth.

Cherry Hill is situated geographically at the very edge of urban sprawl. The Sweet Corn Capitol of Michigan has give up its title long ago as corporate and community designers drew up plans for new neighborhoods not surrounded by corn and forests but by other houses, parking lots, play grounds and ah, more houses every day. To many, this is unfamiliar enough territory but throw into the mix people from literally all over the world who have come with their own cultural preferences and religions and well, it is an entirely new world.

How do we take the message of a savior named Jesus, Son of God, the atoning sacrifice that sets us free from the bondage of sin and death to a world that no longer has a “Christian” world view? It is a big question and one that Hunter is helping us with. We have been learning a little cultural anthropology these last weeks with the hope of feeling better equipped to even begin purposeful dialog as neighbors, fellow sojourners on Planet Earth.

To the wonder of all who step forward with a willing heart to serve, the Book of Acts has some good stuff to think about as we reach out to the pre-Christian population that surround us. In Acts 18, Paul was encouraged by God to keep sharing the Gospel of Christ even in threatening conditions saying, “Do not be afraid, keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.”

It is encouraging that while we may be timid; afraid of witnessing to Christ’s power and presence, God is already at work in the lives of others who are praying and also seeking to share the hope of Christ. Come join us as we seek for a fuller understanding of Christ’s call on our lives and the courage to take that message beyond the walls of the church building.

Pastor Merlin

Our pastor can be reached at either (734)495-0035 or at (734)233-4065. His email is cowtownpreacher@hotmail.com.