Christ is the head of the church, which is his

body. He is the first of all who will rise from the

dead, so he is first in everything.

Colossians 1:18. NLT

“What takes precedence, the vessel’s facilities or its overall purpose?”

What is the overall purpose?

"Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am

sending you." John 20:21. NIV

"The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted,

…to proclaim liberty to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD." Luke 4:18-19. NKJV

The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost. Luke 19:10. NKJV

•Expect a level of service

•Resist what makes us uncomfortable

•Lose enthusiasm for new members

But you, dear friends, must continue to build your lives on the foundation of your holy faith. And continue to pray as you are directed by the Holy Spirit.

Live in such a way that God's love can bless you as you wait for the eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going to give you.

Show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment.

There are still others to whom you need to show mercy, but be careful that you aren't contaminated by their sins. Jude 20-23. NLT