GROW

Somehow Paul (the one in the Bible) saw his opposition not as obstacles but as opportunities.  Instead of being discouraged by the condition of his boulevard - instead of complaining and whining about how his boulevard was 'going to hell in a hand basket' - instead of gathering up his buddies and picketing and boycotting and signing petitions against his boulevard - he had a spirit that said, 'We can do this!  We can make a difference!'

The reason Paul was able to do that was because of what he believed about God.

The reason our church will grow won't be because of how we do things.  Don't ever think that.  The way it will grow is because we have this firm belief that God is big and in charge.

It will grow because we believe God is strong.
It will grow because we know God is worthy and gracious.
It will grow because we believe the Bible is true and living.
It will grow because we know the Holy Spirit is real.
It will grow because we believe death was defeated by Jesus.
It will grow because we realize Jesus could return at any time.

Because in the middle of great opposition we have unbelievable opportunities -- if we really believe what we say we believe.

And be blessed.