March 19, 2020

 

Greetings in the mighty name of Jesus!

 

As you know, we are facing a state of emergency declared by the State of Wisconsin.  In part, this declaration prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people.  The ban specifically includes religious gatherings but makes several exceptions, including child care facilities.  

 

While we are not entirely convinced of the efficacy of these actions nor of the legality of the restrictions on churches, we are faced with a decision.  Do we, as a church, all gather together in defiance of this order, or do we find another way, like the persecuted church around the world.  

 

After much discussion and prayer, we have decided that, at this time, making a stand to meet in our building would be more out of a civil libertarian position than a scriptural one.  The day may come when that changes, but for the time being we will do our best to comply with the restrictions without abandoning the clear command of scripture.

 

Hebrews 10:25 NIV

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

 

All residential buildings, including private homes, are exempt from the order.  Our plan, beginning Sunday, March 22 and continuing for the duration of this order, will be to meet in private homes.  This will take two or possibly three homes, and the meeting locations may vary from week to week.  In short, we will have ourselves a bit of an adventure, so stay tuned.

 

We’ve had enough with the coronavirus and the associated fear which has overtaken our society, even many Christians.  The church is called to be the pillar and support of the truth, a witness of the reality of resurrection, especially in times like these.

 

God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.  The command to not fear is repeated in one form or another over 500 times in the Bible.  If you have given in to fear or worry, just stop.  We must stand in faith and cling to the word of God, not follow a world without God into hysteria.  Finally, if any fall sick, our response is from the words of James – call the elders and we will come and pray for you to be healed.

 

Standing in faith as a church family,

 

Jake Stimpson & Brian Shuler

Cornerstone Church Lake Country