At King of Kings Church, we use the “E4” framework to encourage, engage, equip and empower our Lutheran community. Our hope is that, no matter where your focus is as you go through life, that you set God as a central priority. Let Him be a part of everything you do. 

As we approach our September sermon series, along with connection Sunday, let’s focus on the first two E’s of our guidepost: Encourage and Engage. These principles are essential in building a strong, vibrant church where everyone feels valued and involved. For inspiration, we’ll explore Bible verses that inspire encouragement and engagement in our daily lives and within the church.

Speak an Encouraging Word

Encouragement is the first step in fostering a strong faith community. When we uplift one another, we reflect the love and grace of Christ. Here are some encouraging Bible verses to inspire your efforts:

Thessalonians 5:11

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

In this early letter written by the Apostle Paul, he emphasizes the importance of continual encouragement for the persecuted Thessalonians. Just as Paul sought to strengthen their resolve by reminding them of their hope in Christ’s return, we can find encouragement within the walls of our own church.

Hebrews 10:24-25

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Community plays an important role in spiritual endurance. Encouragement is not just about words, but about inspiring action within our church. Remember to hold firmly to your faith and to join with like-minded souls regularly for mutual encouragement. 

Romans 15:5

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.”

Paul wrote Romans to unify the Jewish and Gentile Christians in Rome, who were struggling with cultural and religious differences. This verse calls us to foster a spirit of unity, understanding and support within our church by mirroring the love and patience that Christ shows us.

Proverbs 12:25

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”

This simple yet profound verse highlights the impact a kind word can have. In our church, a small gesture of encouragement can lift someone’s spirit and foster a greater sense of community.

Isaiah 40:31

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

The second half of Isaiah is all about encouragement for the Israelites. This verse reassures us that our strength is renewed when we place our hope in the Lord, and we can encourage others to do the same.

Philippians 4:13

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Here we see a powerful reminder that, with Christ, we can overcome any challenge. As a congregation, we encourage each other to face difficulties with confidence and faith.

Engage with One Another

Engagement is the second step towards a supportive and nurturing congregation. More than just participation, it’s about using our God-given gifts to serve others and make a meaningful impact on the community around us. Here are some Bible verses that spotlight the power of engagement:

1 Peter 4:10

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

In his letter, Peter emphasizes that suffering is a part of the Christian experience but encourages believers to live righteous lives. In this verse, he advocates using each individual’s God-given gifts to serve others. By engaging our gifts, we become faithful stewards of God’s grace.

Romans 12:4-6

“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”

Paul’s analogy of the body illustrates the diversity of gifts within the church. Engaging our unique talents to help others honors the talents that God has given us.

1 Corinthians 12:12

“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.”

Playing on the body metaphor as above, this passage emphasizes that our differences are what make us stronger as a community. When we engage fully, each part contributes to the health and growth of the church.

Colossians 3:23-24

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

Faith and work are not mutually exclusive. Engaging in our work with heartfelt dedication is a way to serve the Lord. We all can strive to pour our hearts into our contributions, no matter how small they may seem.

1 Timothy 4:14

“Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.”

Paul’s advice to Timothy serves as a reminder to each of us to fully engage with the gifts God has entrusted to us. Rather than letting our talents lie dormant, we must cultivate and use them in service to others. 

James 1:22

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

This verse from James emphasizes the importance of putting faith into action. It’s not enough to simply hear God’s Word; we must actively engage with it in our daily lives.

Connect, Encourage and Engage

On September 8th, connection Sunday kicks off our fall initiative to better connect you with the church. During the event, you’ll find booths from the various King of Kings ministries and activities that will help you uncover your talents so that you can engage accordingly. We encourage you to attend and hope you will engage with the ministries that speak to your unique interests and gifts. 

Furthermore, as we enter the fall E4 sermon series, keep the verses in this blog in mind. Whether through kind words, acts of service, or by simply showing up, your contribution is invaluable. Join us every Sunday as we explore these themes further and foster a greater sense of community together. We look forward to seeing you!