From Ephesus to America: A Warning About False Teaching | Building a Gospel-Shaped Church | Week 9

January 18, 2026

Pastor Joel begins by sharing his meaningful experience visiting Ephesus, where he walked where Paul and Timothy once stood and saw ancient Christian symbols carved in stone by persecuted believers. He uses this backdrop to address what he sees as the American church's "blind spot" - similar to how the Southern church once ignored slavery while maintaining religious practices. Drawing from First Timothy 6:3-10, Joel warns against false teachers who use religion for material gain and the dangers of craving wealth over spiritual contentment.

He emphasizes that with roughly 5.3 billion people heading toward a Christless eternity and countless physical needs around us, the church must keep its eyes open to serve others rather than accumulate possessions. He points out that most Americans are in the top 10% of global wealth, giving us tremendous opportunity to further God's kingdom. Rather than chasing the "flashiest" church experience with fog machines and lasers, Joel calls Community of Grace to be the most effective church for God's kingdom - one known for giving people the life-giving truth of Jesus when tragedy strikes. 


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