Mystery Church

KNOW WHATS HAPPENING

2011-05-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

If you want to stay connected sign up for the City. There you will find a calendar of events and a full list of all thats happening at Mystery and its A LOT. Dont miss out.

Praying through Good Friday

2011-04-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

As we prepare our hearts and minds for this Easter weekend its good to think deeply about the Cross of Christ. We will be fasting and praying through lunch today to ready our hearts and minds for tonights Good Friday service and for those who we have invited to Easter services. To help here is a list of ten (11) helpful things to pray through from friend and fellow pastor Tim Chambers of Christ Church of Joplin. Read through them. Pray through them. Praise through them. Ask God to bless the weekend, fill the building but more importantly fill hearts with the Good News of Gods great grace, love and mercy in Jesus.

Ten (or Eleven) Things to Pray on Good Friday

By Pastor Tim Chambers

Make me understand sin in light of the cross. I don't want to evaluate it from my own senses. I want to know the hurtfulness of sin by knowing the price that was paid for it.
Allow me to understand righteousness in light of the cross. Let me see clearly there the perfection of Jesus, that I may long to be fully clothed in him and in him alone.
Teach me obedience through the cross of Jesus. Set his submission there before me as a standard, causing me to renounce my own will and follow his obedient example.
Let me understand eternity in light of the cross. I want to see history as the cross reveals history. I want to see the future as the cross reveals the future.
Make me understand service to your church in view of the cross. We each have gifts, and by those gifts we serve. But our model for service is one who gave himself to suffer for her whom he loved.
Allow me to see people in the light of the cross. Let me know their value and determine their need by what it reveals.
Confront arrogance and division in your church with the message and the power of the cross. Bring my pride to the cross and let it die.
Stamp a picture of the cross upon my soul. Let the cross of Christ dominate my mind, my will, and my emotions. Touch my heart with what is revealed there.
Capture my children's hearts with the love Jesus showed when he died for them at Calvary.
Raise the cross above this city. Let it be a beacon to all who are weary and broken and sick of sin. Let them see the Son of Man lifted up from the earth and let them be drawn to him.
May the love of Jesus that was demonstrated on the cross capture the affections of all the nations. Let him see the reward of his soul’s anguish and be satisfied.

Original Post

Set List for Yesterday...

2011-03-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

Here are the songs we played yesterday at Mystery click the title to find the version closest to the one we did...

Skeleton Bones - John Mark McMillan's album "The Medicine" is good...you might want to get the whole thing. (We've also done "Death in His Grave" from the same album)

In the Shadow of the Glorious Cross - Anything Sojourn is good!

Help My Unbelief - Red Mountain Church puts out some good stuff...this is one of my favorites from them.

How Deep the Father's Love for Us - there are a ton of versions of this song...pick the one you like!

Fullness of God - Jordan Whitmore of Austin City Life...the One EP is worth getting too!

What is Lent? Should I participate?

2011-03-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

Today is Fat Tuesday, and people all over are doing something to celebrate – eating another doughnut, planning a big meal tonight, or all out partying until midnight tonight. Maybe you’re one of the ones celebrating today, or maybe you’re been asked the question, “What are you giving up for Lent?” and you have no idea what the person asking you is talking about.

Lent can be beneficial, but also harmful. The purpose of Lent isn’t to lose some weight or kick some habit. Lent isn’t a way to curry favor from Jesus, or prove that you’re on the Christian Varsity Team. If you’re observing Lent, if you’re thinking about it, or if you’re wondering why mess with it, Bruce Benedict of Christ the King in Raleigh, NC has some good words for you:

WHY BOTHER WITH LENT?

The Lenten Season starts on Ash Wednesday. For many recognizing Lent, that day marks the first day of a forty-day fast from something.

The day before Ash Wednesday is known as Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras (French for Fat Tuesday). Many people have at least a day of feasting before the season of fasting. Perhaps no city in America celebrates Mardi Gras better than New Orleans.

The weeks leading up to Mardi Gras (again, the Tuesday before the first day of Lent) as well as the actual day are a season of parties and parades throughout New Orleans. Many revelers— especially those who have traveled to New Orleans to celebrate—gather on Bourbon Street on Tuesday evening. The party goes long into the night, ending at Midnight on Tuesday night. Since Lent starts at 12:01 a.m. on Ash Wednesday, the New Orleans Police Department gather at Midnight on Mardi Gras, form a wall of officers and horses, and use that wall to clear Bourbon Street.

In the minds of many, that’s a great picture of Lent: Party up to the last minute before the Lenten Season starts. Get what you can before you have to give it up. Feast before you have to fast. It’s the reason the celebrations associated with Mardi Gras are often referred to as Carnival—a word that comes from the Latin for “goodbye meat.”

In the minds of many, that’s also what makes the Lenten Season at best a disappointment and at worst a farce. It seems almost hypocritical to celebrate the Seven Deadly Sins before suppressing them.

CONFUSION REGARDING LENT

There is much confusion in the American Evangelical Church regarding Lent. To be sure, the Bible doesn’t require us to recognize seasons like Lent or even Advent. In Romans 14:5, Paul writes that the celebration of holy days is a matter of Christian liberty. Paul continues, “The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord” (Rom. 14:6). Therefore, any recognition of Lent must be done in a way that honors God.

As Jesus made clear when he quoted Isaiah to the Pharisees, external actions void of heart- engagement are not honoring to God.

Well did Isaiah prophecy of you hypocrites… ‘This people honors me with their lips, but

their heart is far from me.’

Therefore, any special attention to the Lenten Season that honors God must include heart-level repentance and real faith, not external obedience to church tradition.

So the Lenten Season and its encouragement to take an extended time to focus on the death and resurrection of Christ provides us with an opportunity to honor God as well as a temptation toward sin. There can be a real value in marking this season, but only if done with a heart that seeks to honor God.

Go HERE if you'd like to read the whole article from The Resurgence.

ALL CHURCH WORK DAY - Lets Get Ready for Mission!

2011-02-17T11:22:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Feb 26th we will be having a church work day from 9 to noon. We are doing this for a couple reasons. First, Art Walk is just a couple weeks away and there are some things we need to clean and repair. Second, Jesus has given us this amazing place to serve him from and we should honor that gift by keeping it nice. The goal here is that we have a flood of people show up for just a couple hours to get things done instead of having a few people spend many hours on multiple days. There will be all kinds of things to do.

Leaders Who Last Seminar

2011-02-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

Fellow Acts 29 church and Mystery Supporter, LifePoint Church in Ozark Mo. is hosting author of Leaders Who Last, Dave Kraft in a leadership conference Sat. March 5th. Cost is $30 and includes lunch. We will caravan Sat morning from the church building. Talk to Jeff Holingshead if you are interested in attending. You can register at Lifepointozark.com or through Mystery church.

A Praying Church

2011-02-07T07:38:00.000-08:00

From the message this past Sunday here is the list pastor Steev gave in regards to the substance of Christian prayer. You might also find it good to listen to the entire message. And Mystery highly recommend the book A Praying Life by Paul Miller. You can purchase it at our resource wall or via Amazon.

This is not an exhaustive list but merely some thoughts on the content of a Christians prayer as we look at the Apostle Pauls example in Acts and Ephesians.

Prayer Should be:

God Centered

Trinitarian

Reverent

Worshipful

Thankful

Thoughtful

Confessional

Repentant

Relational

Intimate

Kingdom Minded

Missional

Intercessory

Intentional

About Listening as well as Speaking

Specific

Simple

Spirit Filled

Corporate

Continual

Confident & Expectant

Personal Renewal Pt 7 - Family

2011-02-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

Reading Specific to Renewal as Family

• Bible – Acts, Rom, Eph, 1 & 2 Cor, Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy
• Total Church by Steve Timmis

• Stop Dating the Church by Joshua Harris

• What is a Healthy Church by Mark Dever

• The Trellis and the Vine by Marshall and Payne

Personal Renewal Pt 6 - Missionary

2011-02-02T12:45:00.000-08:00

Reading Specific to Renewal as a Missionary

• Bible – Luke, John, Acts, Rom, Gal, 1 John, Exodus, Nehemiah, Isaiah,

• Culture Making by Andy Crouch

• Crazy Love by Francis Chan

• Radical Reformissionary by Mark Driscoll

• Total Church by Steve Timmis

• Generous Justice by Tim Keller

Personal Renewal Pt 5 - Servant

2011-01-31T12:43:00.000-08:00

Reading Specific to Renewal as a Servant

• Bible – Matthew, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Rom, Gal, *Philippians, James, Philemon, Hosea

• Humility by CJ Mahaney

• Generous Justice by Tim Keller

• Total Church by Steve Timmis

• Radical by David Platt

• The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn (Specifically for issues of Money/Worldliness)

Personal Renewal Pt 4 - Learner

2011-01-30T12:38:00.000-08:00

Reading Specific to Renewal as a Learner

• Bible – Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Eph, 1-2 Tim, 1 John, , Psalms, Isaiah

• Basic Christianity by John Stott (Great starting place for presenting Jesus to people)

• Basic Christian Beliefs (And Corresponding Workbook) Great for new Christians

• Doctrine by Mark Driscoll

• Death by Love by Mark Driscoll

• Prodigal God by Tim Keller

• The Trellis and the Vine by Marshall and Payne

Personal Renewal Pt 3 - Worshiper

2011-01-29T12:36:00.000-08:00

Reading Specific to Renewal as a Worshiper

• Bible – John, Rom, Gal, Eph, Col, Heb, Rev, Genesis, Deut, Psalms, Isaiah

• Knowing God by J.I. Packer

• What is the Gospel by Greg Gilbert

• Desiring God by John Piper

• Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller

• The Jesus Story Book Bible by Sally Llyod-Jones

GIVE 10 - SAVE 10 in 2011

2011-01-27T12:50:00.000-08:00

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. – 2 Cor 8:9

The Reason We Give

• We are commanded to give as worship – to honor God with our first fruits

• We are commanded to give to further the ministry and mission of Gods church

• We’re called to give to keep our hearts from loving money, things and the world more than God

• We are called as Christians to be radically generous with our money to express the counter cultural kingdom the gospel creates within a world that does not know God

• We are called to be people of restoration and renewal in a world where money is an answer to many physical needs. We use our resources to create culture and counter the darkness

The Way We Give

• We give to our church. We partner with God’s people as a family and community of worshippers and missionaries to collectively do the most good in the world. Our primary giving is to the church we belong to. A people of one mind and one mission in the places God has placed them. All Christians should be members of a local church where they are confident that the leaders are stewarding well the collective resources of its members, motivated by the gospel, without reproach and with much prayer and wisdom for God’s glory.

The church is God’s primary means of reaching the world so the work of ministry and mission should flow from and through churches so that Jesus’ church is glorified above any other organization, individual or agenda.

• We given to charity. We want to live content lives not trying to keep up with the world. This means simplified lives that allow us to be radically generous. We strive to give 10% to our church and above and beyond through the church and other areas of opportunity God presents us with in the world.

The Challenge to Give

• Commit to trusting Jesus in all things; seeking to live a life content with Christ as your greatest treasure, living below your means and prayerfully asking God for a generous and joyous heart.

Give 10 Save 10 in 2011

• Commit to Tithing 10% of your “first fruits” monthly – Plan for and Pursue Generosity

- If you are already giving 10%, prayerfully ask God to show you how much to challenge yourself to give above the tithe

- Include Other Christians from Mystery in your decisions and plans

• Commit to Saving 10% of your income monthly – Plan for & Pursue Freedom with money

- Set Goals for things you would like to accomplish for the kingdom in the future

- Set goals for ways to enjoy God’s blessings in ways that bring joy to you and others

- Include Other Christians from Mystery in your decisions and plans

Personal Renewal Part 2

2011-01-27T12:30:00.000-08:00

This is a first of a series of posts listing some of our Relevant Reading that corresponds to the Personal Renewal Plans we are engaged in as a church this semester. Read the previous post for an explanation of how to use these resources.

General Reading on Renewal

• You Can Change by Tim Chester

• The Cross Centered Life by CJ Mahaney

• A Praying Life by Paul Miller

• A Quest for More by Paul Tripp

• Renewal as a Way of Life Richard Lovelace

Personal Renewal

2011-01-26T12:13:00.000-08:00

We began the new year talking about an emphasis of Renewal this year. In the book of Ephesians (Our Current Sermon Series) Paul teaches that the new life of a Christian flows from a spirit of renewal in our minds (Eph 4:23). Putting on the new self and growing in the gospel is a process of ever increasing understanding of the knowledge of God, our selves and the person and work of the gospel. When we find ourselves dry, stagnant and lifeless its because we have forgotten the gospel and are failing to apply it to our selves and situations. (2 Pet 1:9).
This month we gave PRPs or "personal renewal plans" to everyone attending Mystery. (You can download a printable PDF here) The purpose of the PRP is to assess where we are in our gospel Identity - Worshiper, Learner, Servant, Missionary and Family, and begin to address our deficient areas with Gods Word and with Gods people in gospel communities throughout the week.

This series of posts will include relevant reading and resources to help you, alongside others, best address the "flat spots" in your PRP wheel. There are bible readings, basic books and books to for those who want to dig deeper.

When it comes to your area, select a resource, discuss it with your CG leaders and those in your group. Ask someone in the group to read the same resource with you. Set aside a time once a month where you can meet and process what you are learning together. Look for ways in which what you are learning directly apply to the steps you have committed to taking in your 120 days of renewal and pray for the Holy Spirit to transform you more and more to be like Jesus.

There is still time to GIVE LOVE

2010-12-22T14:09:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder. Mystery is giving 10% of everything given in the month of December toward church planting and missions around the country and the world.

As we are giving and receiving, shopping and buying this season the leaders of Mystery are asking everyone to please set some of the resources God has given you aside for GIVE LOVE. We are asking that over the next couple Sundays, and Christmas Eve you might drop money in the Give Love jars and even write an extra check to Mystery above your normal tithe. None of this will be spent on ourselves the entire 10% will go directly to places and people we love and support through Mystery.

Thanks for your contribution ahead of time. Please be praying that God would move in our own hearts and others to make this a generous time of giving love as Gods people.

This is Christmas

2010-12-22T13:59:00.000-08:00

We first posted this video a couple years ago, but its still a great thoughtful presentation to help us understand and think through What is Christmas? Check it out. It might help you worship a little more, or give you some conversation starters for those Christmas parties.

That's Christmas (Short Film) HD from St Helen’s Church on Vimeo.

Give Love

2010-12-03T19:22:00.001-08:00

We are doing GIVE LOVE again this year! Along with what we're doing in Community Groups, we'll be giving away 10% of our total December offering to our partners in mission here in the US and around the world. Please prayerfully, generously and joyously give to the gospel during this season which can be marked by so much spending and consuming. Gospel generosity is the best way to keep our hearts on the Cross this Christmas.

West Central Collection

2010-12-03T19:16:00.000-08:00

Its not too late to bring your books, play dough, board games, craft supplies, and other gifts for the students of West Central!!

Downtown Joplin Christmas Parade

2010-12-03T19:10:00.000-08:00

The Downtown Joplin Christmas Parade is this Tuesday at 6:00pm. The Mystery building will be open with hot drinks, good food, ornament and cookie decorating.

2nd Service!!!

2010-12-03T19:07:00.000-08:00

That's right! You've been begging to sleep in or get to church earlier... either way, we've got you covered. Starting January 9th, Mystery will be offering two services - one at 9am and another at 11am. Choose a service and invite a friend!

Derek Webb and Sandra McCracken Concert!

2010-11-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

Mystery continues its entry into relevant and reliable worship events. We are hosting Derek Webb along with Sandra McCracken for an intimate evening of hymns and Christmas songs. Tickets are $15 now or $20 the night of the show. But heads up there might not be any left the night of the show! They are selling fast. Space and tickets are limited and on sale now here .
This is a great opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most beautiful sung and propheticly writen worship artists of our time. Grab a friend and join us for this special event.

Purchase your tickets here from brown bag tickets

November Update for Mystery

2010-11-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

Couple of important things for this month at Mystery. Mark your calendars and make your plans. Its going to be a busy but exciting ride.

1. We have another baptism this week at Mystery. Its gonna be great. Please come. Its an exciting time to see Gods grace at work and share in it together. This is always a great motivator to further worship and mission

2. Sunday Nov 21st is Prayer night. We will also be having a Family Meeting that evening to share some important news as well as celebrate and pray over new members. PLEASE MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND. You will want to hear whats going on and to also encourage new people joining us on the journey.

3. West Central is still looking for 1-2 Trek Coaches and Lunch buddies. If interested please talk to Vance Eden or Patrick Snow.

4. It's that time again. All Community Group Christmas Party will be Wednesday Dec 8th at the Mystery building. More info to come. We have some other exciting Christmas things lined up this season as well that you will begin to hear about soon. Including West Central and downtown.

5. Please be praying for and inviting your friends neighbors and co-workers. During these holiday times its a great way to have spiritual conversations and talk about Jesus with little effort. Also people are receptive to the season and open to being invited church and events. Take advantage of it.

Daylight Savings Time!

2010-10-28T14:42:00.001-07:00

Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour Sunday November 7th or jokes on you when you show up an hour early!

How You Can Join Us

2010-09-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

How You Can Join Us | Mystery’s Gospel Invitation

Our deepest desire is that you know, worship and love Jesus. If you’d like to know more about becoming a Christian pick up a copy of “Knowing God” from our information table or arrange to meet with a Community Group leader or pastor. We also want to see people connect with and commit to a local church. It’s through participation that we grow in the gospel. Here are several of the ways you can explore and experience Mystery for yourself.

• Attend a Sunday Worship Gathering
We gather at 514 Main in downtown Joplin each Sunday morning at 10am to worship God together through preaching, prayer, singing and sharing. It’s a great time to celebrate the gospel together.

• Fill Out an “Introduce Yourself” Card
Cards are located by the door or in the chair racks. This is the first informal way we can begin to serve you. Share needs, ask for prayer, arrange a meeting or just let us know you were here.

• Join a Community Group
This is the best way to connect and grow. Groups form in the Fall, Winter and Spring. They meet in homes in the area during the week and consist of food, friendships, prayer, study and service. Check the website or information table for a group near you.

• Participate in Forums, Events and Activities
There’s usually something going on around here from classes to cookouts or missional activities. Check the bulletin, facebook, twitter or mysterychurch.com for opportunities to plug in.

• Attend Exploring Mystery
Want to learn more about Christianity or our church? This class is for you. Offered on Sunday evenings several times a year it meets from 4-7:30 includes a comprehensive notebook and a meal. The class addresses the Gospel and the Church as well as an overview of Mystery’s history, beliefs, vision, mission, structure and practices. It’s open to anyone and is required for membership. Come find answers and connect with community.

FIGHT! One Day Mens Conference at Mystery

2010-09-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

FIGHT!

Men often fight for the wrong things in the wrong way. In order to fight for the right things in the right way, there are several things we must understand:

FIGHT FOR CHRIST – the importance of the Gospel in a man’s life.
In order to fight well, a man must understand the Gospel, be changed by the Gospel, and continually live in response to the Gospel. A man fights for Christ only after he sees how Christ has fought for him. Christ is the warrior who has conquered Satan, Sin, and Death, and the battle He has fought and won gives a man courage, strength, and hope to fight for Christ in his own life.

FIGHT FOR COMMUNITY – the importance of the Church in a man’s life.
Men are tempted to try and fight alone, but fighting alone is a terrible battle plan, and results in casualties. Jesus is the only one to successfully “go it alone” and it still cost His life. Christ died to save his people – the Church – and to bring us to God. When Christ saves a man, He calls that man to not only fight for, but also alongside others whom He has saved.

FIGHT FOR CULTURE – the importance of Mission in a man’s life.
A good fighter doesn’t stay in his corner when the bell rings, and Jesus didn’t save us that we might never enter the fray. There is a battle, a fight, a mission, and that mission is not accomplished by staying home, staying safe, and staying comfortable.

Join us November 13 for this free one-day event where we will learn to FIGHT!

For More information jump on over to the web site fight2010.com

Where We're Going

2010-09-27T13:22:00.000-07:00

Where We’re Going | Mystery’s Gospel Vision

Mystery Exists to Glorify God through lives transformed and a city changed by the power of the gospel.

We’re a church with a vision to see others worship and enjoy fullness of life in Jesus Christ. When we read a passage like Acts 2:36-41, we find that having experienced His great love for them, Jesus’ disciples desired to express that love to others. They wanted the world to know Jesus like they knew him, finding new life, identity and purpose in him. Through Jesus life, death, burial and resurrection we are adopted into a new community and given a greater connectedness with God and one another.

We believe God is still actively at work in his world, pursuing and saving people, starting new churches and pouring out the Holy Spirit.

The gospel alone transforms lives, changes whole communities and redeems entire cities. No law, no religion, no rules can ever do what the gospel can. Only God saves and only Jesus can rescue and restore all things, which is exactly what he is doing one life, one church and one city at a time.

We are praying God will transform us into agents of change in our city.
Mystery exists to bring the Kingdom of God to bear in our city. The gospel sends us into our cultures to seek the peace of our city, expressing justice, mercy and love and extending grace to all people. We long to see the gospel impact businesses, government, culture, education and the arts. We actively seek opportunities to serve and love the leaders as well as the least of our city.
As people are changed, cities and regions are redeemed. Our goal and the goal of the gospel is great joy in God through transformed lives.

“Behold I am making all things new.” – Jesus (Rev 21:5)

BENEFIT CONCERT THIS SATURDAY OCT 2nd

2010-09-27T03:46:00.000-07:00

This Saturday Night Oct 2nd 6-8pm Mystery is hosting a concert to benefit West Central Elementary School. There is no cover but donations are greatly appreciated. Every goes to the school. It will be a great night of music and worship featuring the band PAGE CXVI. Come listen, sing, dance eat and enjoy. Bring your family and invite your friends.

What Do We Do

2010-09-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

What We Do | Mystery’s Gospel Rhythm

We have a purpose as a church. Some would call it a mission, we refer to it as rhythm. We exist to make much of God in all things. As we grow in our gospel identity we express it to the watching world by reflecting gospel grace in a life of gospel rhythm.

We Love
We love Jesus because he first loved us. A genuine Christian is marked by gracious and generous love. We exist to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, doing everything as an act of adoration toward him. Christian love is evidenced in our love for one another in the church and those in the world.

We Live
We live because Jesus lives and gives us life. We exist to live for Jesus and to live the way of Christ. We live as people saved by God’s grace and not by our own religious works. We long to live biblical Spirit filled lives. We are committed to a missional lifestyle, of sharing the gospel, service, and sacrifice.

We Engage
We engage because Jesus has engaged us. We are meant for deep intimacy with God. As Christians we are freed from sin to engage Christ, his church and our culture. The life of a disciple is about actively engaging the gospel through worship, community and mission inviting others to experience the same.

We Enjoy
Being a Christian should be fun! We have joy because of Jesus. The news of his birth was an announcement of great joy. Scripture teaches that salvation is marked by joy and that in God’s presence there is fullness of joy. We live to be happy in Christ and believe that by enjoying Jesus, his people and his gifts we bring him the most glory and satisfy our souls. God is our joy and delight.

Who We Are

2010-09-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

Who We Are | Mystery’s Gospel Identity

The simple answer is that we’re a church, but that has many meanings today. More precisely we’re a group of Christ-Followers gathered by God, growing in Christ, empowered by the Spirit to live our gospel identity, in gospel community and on gospel mission.

We are Worshippers
Everyone was made to worship. We all give ourselves and affections to something or someone. We’re hard wired to worship. Ever seen people at a concert or sporting event? Ever stood in awe of the mountains or the ocean? It’s in us and it longs to come out. We’re a church that worships Jesus. As Followers we live to enjoy him everywhere, please him in everything and love him completely.

We are Learners
To be a disciple is by definition to be a learner. We are Jesus’ disciples. He is our Master, Teacher and Friend. We follow him, learning to walk the way of Jesus and becoming like him. We know him and grow in him by the Spirit through the study of his Word.

We are Servants
Jesus is God. This was His claim, but His bold statement was not accompanied by arrogance or superiority, rather by meekness and service. Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. We live putting others first in caring, sharing, providing for and praying for them.

We are Missionaries
God is a missionary. He sent his Son to save the world from sin and He sends his church. We are to be a city on a hill, a ray of hope, an example of love and a witness to the truth. Every Christian is sent to live on mission sharing the gospel verbally and visually in their workplaces, neighborhoods, cultures and cities. It’s a lifestyle.

We are Family
When we, through faith in Christ, become a Christian we are adopted as God’s children. What great news! In Jesus we’re made brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. This is the church. Christian growth always happens best in community living as God’s family.

West Central Lunch Buddies

2010-09-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

West Central Elementary needs volunteers for Lunch Buddies and Trek Coaches! This is an incredible opportunity to be in the lives of these students and be an example of Christ's love to them! Please see Vance Eden or Patrick Snow for more info!

Exploring Mystery

2010-09-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

If you're new to Mystery, want to know more about us, or are interested in membership, this is what you're looking for! Classes will begin next month, on Sunday, Oct. 10th from 4-7:30pm, so be on the lookout for sign-ups in the lobby!

GREAT DAY OF SERVICE

2010-09-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

Immediately after service we will take to the streets of downtown along with the city and several other organizations to love and serve our neighborhood. We invite everyone to join us in this great gospel opportunity for restoration. There is something for everyone and there will be food and fun on main street after the work is done.

UPCOMING CONCERT AND WORSHIP NIGHT

2010-09-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Mystery is Hosting - HYMNS a PAGE CXVI concert Saturday Oct 2nd from 6-8pm - It's a night of music and worship in downtown Joplin.
Cost is your choice, but all donations will go toward and benefit West Central Elementary.

Welcome to the Gospel

2010-09-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

Continuing our posts from our first time guest booklet...

What is the Gospel?
If you haven’t already noticed we use the word “gospel” a lot. Simply explained the gospel is the good news of God’s great grace in saving sinners through the sending of his only son Jesus Christ to be the substitutionary sacrifice for sin. It’s the story of God’s justice and mercy expressed in the Cross of Christ.

We were lovingly created by God to bear his image and find our identity in him alone. Slaving to find our happiness, satisfaction and significance apart from
Jesus leaves us ultimately alone and empty.

In denying God and dismissing him from our lives we deserve death, because he is just. But God, because he is also loving and kind, pursues his people, sending his son Jesus to live the perfect life we cannot live and die the death that we all deserve as rebels and enemies of God. He is that good and he loves us that much!

The gospel is the good news of God’s great love revealed in Jesus’ life, given in his death and extended to us through his resurrection. It’s offered to everyone called by God who acknowledges their sin, turns from their rebellious ways and trusts in Jesus for forgiveness and life. The gospel transforms, defines and motivates Mystery.
Knowing we are sinners saved by grace alone through Jesus Christ alone creates a community of grateful people, loved by God and extending his love. The gospel alone makes a Christian holy and humble, compassionate and confident.

“In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1John 4:10

Welcome to Mystery

2010-09-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

We have a packet of information we hand out to first time guests at Mystery. It's a small little self printed booklet, but it is a great summary of who we are as a church. Of the next week we will be posting the contents of the booklet here. If you have never been to Mystery its a good introduction. If this is your church think of it as a refresher course.

Welcome

We’re really glad you chose to visit us and are excited to get to know you more! We love hearing other’s stories and learning how we can serve you best and connect you with others in our growing community of Christ followers.

Life’s not meant to be lived in isolation. Just as God exists in community as Father, Son and Spirit so we, his creation were made to live intimately alongside one another; sharing, caring, loving, praying and providing for each other in community.

At Mystery it is our hope that you will find a safe place alongside other sojourners to examine Christianity, explore gospel community and experience gospel grace.

As God’s image bearers we were made to live for something bigger than ourselves. It’s that deep longing for meaning we all know and yearn for. The good news is that God does have a plan and purpose for his people. In love he saves us and assembles us as his church. God then sends us out on his rescue mission to love and serve the world, seeking others to share in his love, experience his grace and participate in his great cause. Jesus is creating a new humanity that lives as his kingdom community for his glory, our joy and the good of the city.
This booklet is our first way of sharing who we are, why we exist, where we’re going and how you can share in what God is doing in our lives and in our city.

We’re glad you’re here and hope you’re experiencing and enjoying His grace.

New Series Starts this Sunday - REVISION

2010-09-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

Mystery continues it's trek through Matthews gospel this week as we enter into the 4th discourse in chapters 18-20. We have titled the series "REVISION". Jesus is constantly challenging us to see the world as he sees it. Throughout this section even his own disciples continue to miss the points Jesus has been making. Who is the greatest? What makes someone important? What does mercy look like? How about marriage and money? These are certainly timely and relevant questions today. Jesus continues to lead us into seeing life through the lens of the gospel. Join us over the next several Sundays. 514 S Main in downtown at 10am as we Revision our lives in Christ together.

Red Flags of Discipleship

2010-09-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

From the Acts 29 Network blog here is a great post with some thoughtful and challenging "Red Flags" of discipleship. Helpful warnings and corrections on the nature or nurturing others into Christ-likeness for Gods glory.

Red Flags of Dicsipleship

ArtWalk Thursday Sept 16th

2010-09-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Loving Our City

2010-09-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Here is a great recent post on the Resurgence web site addressing the topic of Loving Your City. It's by Acts 29 pastor Jonathan Dodson in Austin Texas and has four simple, but great ideas for engaging your city with the love God wants to share with people. Everyone should read this and then begin to prayerfully and purposefully put into into practice in your own life.

Raise the Roof!

2010-09-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

God has been very good to our church. A year and half ago God graced us with a new home in downtown Joplin, right in the heart of the city and in the middle of all that we felt God was calling us to engage in as a church. It’s easy for me, and I am sure for all of us, to overlook and take for granted these things of grace, but God is doing great things in the hearts of people and in the heart of the city through our efforts and his blessing of a building.

As owners of 514 S. Main, we are called to be stewards of God’s resources. It’s inevitable, isn’t it, that once you buy something it always asks for more. (Call it the Fall) Our building has several needs now, and it’s our responsibility as a church to care for them together. We share in the ministry, mission and even money as a community. The primary and immediate concerns are 1. Repairing the Roof and 2. Fixing the rear Façade.

We knew the building would need a new roof—we just thought we might get another year or two out of the existing one. But that’s not the case. With the large amounts of rain and bad weather the need has come quicker than expected, and despite attempted repairs it has grown to be a sizable problem. With the removal of the big green metal façade on the back of the building, the rear of our place is now also exposed to the elements. Broken windows and unsealed brick need to be closed up so we can responsibly protect our investment.

Several of the leaders of Mystery have spent many hours talking to roof specialists and getting quotes. As you know, we have a LARGE space with a BIG roof. After a wide range of quotes, much talk and lots of prayer, we decided on a roofer that could do the work for a manageable cost. (By manageable, we mean if all of us contribute to the effort.) Fixing the roof was not optional at this point. It would continue to deteriorate rapidly, and this would not be a good act of stewardship on our part.

We know that things are tight for many of us, and that is why we are asking everyone to get involved in this project. If each individual contributes to the cause, no one person would have to bear the weight. Over the course of August and September we are seeking to raise the necessary funds to meet this needs. We are the church together, and that means we all currently have a need as a body.

What can you do? Give. If you would forgo a few things over the next couple of months, most everyone could contribute $50, $100, $500 or more, and it would go a LONG way. One hundred people mobilized for mission can tackle this with little to no effort. We are asking everyone who calls Mystery home and family to prayerfully and sacrificially give to this effort. Additionally, we will need everyone to serve. Along with money we need good old-fashioned hard work. We will be doing several things ourselves to cut costs, and all of us contributing will again go a long way. Please talk to Pastor Nate, myself or Vance Eden to find out how you can help with the physical and financial efforts over the next month.

There is a big need—but let’s remember we have a bigger God. I would ask us all, as we have done before, to rise to the challenge for the sake of the gospel as well as our personal growth and joy in Jesus. It’s my privilege to labor alongside you in the gospel to see lives transformed and a city changed for his glory and our good!

Sincerely,
Your Pastor – Steev Inge

Baby Day This Sunday

2010-09-08T09:22:00.000-07:00

A few people have had a couple questions concerning Baby Dedication Day this Sunday. So here is a little more about it.

We take this time to recognize Gods gift of children and present them to Jesus, recognizing they are first his and then call parents to steward his gracious gift well loving an leading them to Jesus as they grow. We will introduce kids to the church in order for the body/family to know our children and pray for them as the church seeks to also lead and love our kids collectively. During this time we introduce the kids and their parents, call them to the great responsibility and joy of parenting and then as a church present them to God and pray over them to know and receive God's provision, protection and saving faith as they grow. To acknowledge God’s grace in giving children, all Parents to recognize their God-given responsibility and ask for help from their community of faith in raising their children.

It's a fun time to give back to God and remind us all of our call as a church. I wold greatly encourage any regular participants of Mystery to include their 2 and under children....oh and parents get a free book.

Baby Dedication Day September 12th

2010-08-27T18:41:00.000-07:00

Sunday September 12th during our morning worship gathering we will be presenting our children to the Lord and praying for God's provision and protection upon their life. If you have a child age 2 and under we encourage you to be a part of this special day. Invite your family and friends as we celebrate together as a family all that Jesus is doing through the blessing of children in our church.

What is the Bible About?

2010-08-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

The Bible Is Not Basically about You

This is a good post from Justin Taylor with a great video based on a talk given by Tim Keller. Click here to view and read the whole post.

Bulletin Anouncements.

2010-08-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

Do to some technical difficulties we had no bulletins this past Sunday....have no fear though. If you want to remain in the know (and you should) here is all that's important this week at Mystery:

Packs and Snacks Mystery is partnering with West Central Elementary and gathering items backpacks, snacks for kindergarten students, kleenexes, lice kits, & small rewards.

Community Groups Being a Christian means being in Community. It is living alongside others on mission that we grow in the gospel. Find a group gathering near you and sign up today to join one. Committing to a Community Group is the best thing you could do this fall to experience Jesus.

Raise the Roof! We're sprucing up the place inside and out! Be sure to grab a Raise the Roof card if you haven't gotten one yet!.

Art Walk Thanks to everyone who helped make Art Walk a success! Art Walk will continue next month on September 16th. There are many ways to help with set up on Wednesday and hosting, bringing food, and clean up on Thursday. If you have any questions, please ask Cathy Jo or Rachel Eden.

Third Sunday Prayer - Join us Sunday, September 19th from 7-8pm to confess our need for God and cry out for him to do a great work in our city, church and in the hearts of his people. We would like to see all our members attend this gathering.

New Series Beginning Sunday - The Kingdom is Like...

2010-08-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

Jesus was a great teacher, even more so he was a great story teller. He painted pictures with words that both revealed and concealed the truths of his Kingdom. This week we begin Chapter 13 the fifth discourse in Matthews Gospel. We've entitled the series "The Kingdom is Like..." We will be looking at some of the stories Jesus tells to express the mysteries of Kingdom life and living. Join us for the next four Sundays mornings at 10am as we let God examine our hearts and explain some of the rich treasures of the gospel life.

West Central Mission - Open Hose Tonight

2010-08-16T10:22:00.001-07:00

Our partnership with West Central Elementary continues today from 4-6pm. Mystery will be loving on the students and faculty by providing games and popsicles for the children and families visiting the school for open house. For many this is their first encounter with the school so we want them to feel safe and served. Bring your handmade welcome sign and enjoy the privilege of serving our cities schools and students in the name of Jesus.

FALL 2010 COMMUNITY GROUPS FORMING

2010-08-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year again. Community Groups are forming right now. They will officially kick off the week of August 23rd in neighborhoods and homes throughout the city. There is one just right for you, your family and your friends. This is a best thing you could do to learn about, grow in and experience Jesus this semester. Get in and commit to a group of people where you can eat, laugh, love, be loved, cry, pray and serve together. Life was never meant to be a solo affair and the Christian journey is designed to be done together. Jesus said the world would believe in him as the say his people in living in loving, missional community.
You're invited!

Living Without Basic Needs Simulation

2010-08-02T14:55:00.000-07:00

Living without basic needs simulation - Thursday, August 12, 8:30 am
to 12:00 pm at South Middle School.
This experience will greatly open your eyes to what families living without basic needs experience every day - decisions they make, fears and frustrations they feel. A vast mjority of Joplin leaves at or below the poverty level. AS a church that wants to engage our city and seek to rebuild, repair and transform lives with the gospel this is an amazing opportunity to involve yourself and your community group with.
Let your community leader or pastor now so we can get your name on the list. Space is limited. You can also connect Economic Securities Corp Debbie Markman 417-781-0352 x222

West Central Mission is Tomorrow

2010-07-31T06:52:00.001-07:00

Reminder

West Central Elementary School Work Day is tomorrow - Sunday August 1st 6-8pm.
We need everyone available to please come out. this is a tremendous opportunity to engage the city and build gospel relationships. as an added bonus the school system is sending officials to check out this first church effort and the Globe might even be there to document the whole thing for the whole area to see. Lets make our presence felt in a huge way by loving and impacting our culture as the world watches. Just like Jesus taught us in matt 5 - what a great and gracious opportunity from God!!

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. " - Jesus Matt. 5:14-16

West Central Work Day

2010-07-27T12:51:00.001-07:00

This fall Mystery is beginning a new partnership with West Central Elementary School in Joplin. This coming Sunday August 1st from 6-8pm we will be having a work day at West Central Elementary School (just off west 7th street in Joplin). We will be readying the school for the fall semester by doing some basic work around the school as we seek the good of the community. Everyone is welcome to come help us love and serve the faculty and students of West Central.

ENGAGE: New Series Begins This Sunday August 1st 2010

2010-07-27T12:40:00.000-07:00

Our year long look at Matthew's Gospel continues this week. Join us this Sunday August 1st at 10am as we dive back into Jesus teachings about what it is to be a Follower of the Way. In five major teachings throughout the book of Matthew Jesus unpacks what it means to be a disciple. Following the Sermon on the Mount (series available for download at mysterychurch.com) we delve into his second discourse in Matt Chapter 10. What is the mission of every Christian to be? What does it look like to live our lives on mission and what will it ultimately cost us? Find out starting this week as we Engage Christ, as Community in the City.

Beautify the Block

2010-06-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

Wed June 16th Come Beatify the Block 6:30-8pm here at the building. We are readying for Artwalk and working on our 500 block. Come ready to clean, sweep, plant and just make our block the best one on Artwalk. Please also pray as we will be inviting our neighbors to particiapate with us. Also bring a friend who you can connect to Mystery and the City. Its going to be fun and there will be something for every member of the family!

Why You are Kept Low

2010-04-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

“God blesses us all up to the full measure and extremity of what it is safe for him to do. If you do not get a blessing, it is because it is not safe for you to have one. If our heavenly Father were to let your unhumbled spirit win a victory in his holy war, you would pilfer the crown for yourself, and meeting with a fresh enemy you would fall a victim; so that you are kept low for your own safety.

When a man is sincerely humble, and never ventures to touch so much as a grain of the praise, there is scarcely any limit to what God will do for him. Humility makes us ready to be blessed by the God of all grace, and fits us to deal efficiently with our fellow men. True humility is a flower which will adorn any garden.”

- Charles Spurgeon, Morning and Evening April 5th

Project 2010

2010-04-08T09:14:00.000-07:00

God has done great things for Mystery in the last three years and one of the most strategic things is placing us in the heart of our city in Historic Downtown Joplin.

There is a huge effort to revitalize the downtown area through increased commerce, culture and community. As a church and people sent by God to seek the shalom of the city we are actively involved in this effort. We are serving the arts and working with businesses to build a great city with the greater hope of connecting people to Christ and his mission of saving us from sin and creating a people and a city that bring him glory.

Project 2010 is an initiative to see 20 new businesses in the downtown area by September of 2010. There is already great momentum and we want to continue to serve and love our neighbors by seeing them prosper. Would you like to get involved serving local businesses and recruiting new businesses to move into the downtown area? Click the link to the facebook page below and find out whats going and on and how you can be involved in this city initiative and gospel opportunity.

Jesus Story Book Easter Story Video

2010-04-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

A great video of the story of Jesus resurrection told using images and art from The Jesus Story Book Bible. If you dont own the book (adult or child) get it. If you'd like a great story to watch with your children tonight this is it.

MAN UP 2010 - Mens Conference in Columbia

2010-03-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

God is doing a new thing across his globe. Young men are saying no to living with mom and using their women and living aimlessly and lazily. Others are refusing to bow to the idols of fortune and glory. They're choosing service over self. Men are rising up, seeking to live with passion and purpose. They're making culture and spreading truth. They're becoming biblical men. And the world will never be the same. be a part of this movement. Join us on April 17th. Man Up with us.
Join us for Man Up 2010. Picture 350 men gathering in Columbia, Missouri hitting head-on what it means to be man, and a man for Jesus. Acts 29 President Scott Thomas will be the featured speaker. He’ll be joined by other Acts 29 pastors from Missouri. There will be main sessions, workshops, and time for hanging out, encouraging each other to "man up." Join us on April 17th for a day-long challenge for men, calling them to seize responsibility and take action in spreading the kingdom of God. Join us on the campus of the University of Missouri, in Keller Auditorium.

If you would like to attend MAN UP let us know on the CITY or talk to your community group leader or one of Mystery's pastors.

MAN UP SITE

Ladies Spring Retreat

2010-03-08T09:43:00.000-08:00

The Women of Mystery are having a Spring Ladies retreat Friday evening April 30th through Saturday May 1st. Space is limited so sign up soon on Sundays in the Lobby at Mystery. This will be a great time of fellowship and gospel growth.
Husbands watch the kids and all Men of Mystery should encourage the women in our lives to attend this great opportunity. The subject of the retreat is growing in the gospel through making the most of your time. For more information contact Erin Karnes.

How to Build a God

2010-02-28T09:52:00.000-08:00

WORK DAY MARCH 6th - ARTWALK PREP

2010-02-25T08:53:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, March 6th we will be having a church work day from 9 to noon. We are doing this for a couple reasons. First, Art Walk is just a couple weeks away and there are some things we need to clean and repair. Second, Jesus has given us this amazing place to serve him from and we should honor that gift by keeping it nice. The goal here is that we have a flood of people show up for just a couple hours to get things done instead of having a few people spend many hours on multiple days. There will be all kinds of things to do.

MYSTERY ON THE CITY - JOIN NOW

2010-02-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

Have you joined The City yet? Sign up today. It's the best way to connect with Mystery and get introduced to Community. It's easy, just click the image and it will take you to a link where you can sign up quickly and painlessly. Enter your information and "invite me". You will receive an email inviting you to experience Mystery online in community. From there you can search and join groups, find a gospel community and stay in the loop.

Vision Video for 2 Pillars Church

2010-02-17T09:17:00.000-08:00

2 Pillars Church Vision Video from Todd Bumgarner on Vimeo.

Planting Churches - Meet Todd Bumgarner

2010-02-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

In our continuing efforts to introduce everyone to church planting and those Mystery is suporting personally, let us introduce you to the Bumgarners. Todd is the planting pastor of 2 Pillars church in Lincoln, Nebraska. Todd has visited and preached before at Mystery so some of you might remember him. You can follow Todd's and Project 2 Pillars on twitter at @toddbumgarner. If you live in or if have family friends near Lincoln consider getting involved in this new work from the start. They are currently gathering a core, casting vision and praying for their future. If you can, give to there efforts. And definitely pray for Todd, his family and their new church.
If you live in Joplin, Mo come be a part of a church that's helping plant churches for God's glory aroudn the country and the world. If you're already part of Mystery please continue to pray for 2 Pillars and all our partners and give generously to so we can continue to be faithful with what we have and what we are called to accomplish alongside Christ.

Christ City Church Vision Video

2010-02-15T08:59:00.001-08:00

Christ City Church Vision Video from Rethink Mission on Vimeo.

Helping Haiti

2010-01-14T07:39:00.000-08:00

Besides prayer - and we should all be praying powerfully and frequently for Haiti - we can also do something else, GIVE. Here is a list of legitimate and effective places to give to help the disaster in Haiti. They are experienced, love Jesus and need our help. Click the link for a list of links you can choose from thanks to Desiring God ministries.

Links to Viable Donation Places

Also this week at our Sunday gathering we will be praying for Haiti and the Haitian people along with taking up a donation to go to disaster relief and rescue. Come ready to pray and give generously in this great time of need. These are the times Christians should be the first and best to respond. If you have not already looked through these images which give a Big Picture, you should. Let them move your heart and motivate your prayers.

Planting Churches - Meet Jonathan McIntosh

2010-01-13T11:35:00.000-08:00

At Mystery we have always been about supporting church plants. From day one we began saving and giving 10% of our income to church plants and church planters. We believe the greatest way to bring God glory is to plant churches that plant churches and make disciples. It's God's plan, we figured it should be ours too.

We have given to and currently support gospel works in Chicago, California, Tennessee, Texas, Uganda, India and Missouri and more. We always want our money to match up with our message. We would encourage every church or church plant, large or small to commit to supporting church plants. Others have given to us and we want to give to others. It's not about an amount faithfulness. If you don't start now you might never at all. That's true of our own giving as well as your church's generosity.

That said Mystery is continuing (and expanding in faith) our support of gospel centered, missionally minded churches into 2010. We might not be big. We might not have a lot of money, but we have people and leaders with generous hearts, big picture vision and bigger Christ trust

We will be introducing you to those we are continuing to support as well as some new additions to the family this year. First up meet the McIntosh's. We've know Jonathan for several years now and he has become a great friend and encourager to Mystery. God has put a call on his heart to plant Christ City Church in Memphis, TN. We'd entourage you check out his web site Re-think Mission for more info on himself, his family and their church plant as well as some very cool resources on living out the mission of the gospel in your context. If you're on twitter JMac is a regular poster and you can follow him at @JonMcIntosh. If you are in the Memphis area consider getting involved in this new work from the ground up. If you can, give to there efforts. And definately prayer. Church planting ain't easy. If you're in Joplin come be a part of a church that's helping plant churches. If you're already part of Mystery continue to pray for and give generously to so we can continue to be faithful with what we have and what we are called to accomplish alongside Christ.

NEW SERIES STARTING IN JANUARY 2010 - NEW

2009-12-27T09:09:00.000-08:00

As we launch into a new year in life and as a church it's a great time to reflect and think about where we have been and where God is calling us to. In a three week series called NEW we will examine from the pages of Matthew what it is we are called to be, who we are and how we are to live as Christians. Join us Sunday mornings at 10am starting January 3rd as we look at having a New Life, New Identity & New Resolve in 2010.

This is our life and it's short. What will you do with NEW?

Biblical Marriage Class Coming in January

2009-12-25T08:36:00.000-08:00

Married? Getting Married? Dreaming about Marriage? Struggling to yours work? Mystery wants to help. As a church full of young couples, new marriages and even some that have been together awhile we realize it can be a little confusing. God intended our marriages to be strong, lasting, healthy and enjoyable. He has a plan for us that works toward his glory and our joy. Want to know what it is? You can.

This January Mystery is presenting Biblical Marriage - A four week class on Sunday evenings beginning January 10th at 6pm. We will eat, study and discuss what it is to be covenanted together with Christ and one another in Biblical, Gospel Centered Marriage. Whether you are pursuing getting married, needing to realign your marriage in terms of the gospel or want strengthen your relationship this class is a great place to start. It's worth the time for any marriage and essential if you are wanting a pastor from Mystery to marry you.

Sign Up for the class beginning this Sunday in the foyer before and after our Worship Gathering.

Christmas Eve Service 2009

2009-12-22T08:32:00.001-08:00

Christmas at Mystery is all about Jesus. Any reason to get together and sing and celebrate the birth of our great Lord, Savior and King is a good reason. Join us as we gather this week in anticipation of Christs coming and conclude Advent. Come party this Christmas Eve with Mystery - Thur at 6:30pm. Come sing songs, hear the Christmas story and light the Christ Advent candle. Bring the family and some friends and lets Enjoy Jesus together.

Advent Devotional Wk 4

2009-12-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

Advent Devotional Wk 4

Preparing our Hearts for the Arrival of Jesus this Week

Sunday December 20

Mic 5:2-5a, Ps 80:1-7,

Heb10:5-10, Lk 1:39-45

Monday December 21

Ps 113, Gen 25:19-28,

Col 1:15-20

Tuesday December 22

Lk 1:46b-55, Mic 4:1-5,

Eph 2:11-22

Wednesday December 23

Lk 1:46b-55, Mic 4:6-8,

2 Pt 1:16-21

Thursday December 24

Is 9:2-7, Ps 96, Titus 2:11-14,

Lk 2:1-20

Friday December 25

Is 52:7-10, Ps 98, Heb 1:1-12,

Jn 1:1-14

Advent Devotional 2009

2009-11-30T16:08:00.000-08:00

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy." - Matt. 2:10

Mystery is once again celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord, Savior and King this Christmas season. Its our hope that as a community Mystery will celebrate the Incarnation of Christ and look forward with great anticipation the return of our good King Jesus. Attached for download is our compiled daily devotional for use with family and friends. This is a great time to remember Jesus and introduce your friends and family to Jesus. Through traditional Christmas stories, Prophetic Old Testament Texts, Prayer and Hymns we are encouraging Mystery as a community to study the scriptures looking for Jesus to celebrate his coming, his life, his sacrifice, death and resurrection. Download the Devotional, attend our services, and come celebrate the King who has come to bring us Hope, Love, Peace & Joy!

Download The Advent Family Devotional

Advent Daily Reading

2009-11-30T08:01:00.001-08:00

Mystery is celebrating Advent this year beginning this week. Listen to yesterdays sermon "The Hope of Christmas" by pastor Nate Karnes and then begin using this daily reading plan for the week to move our eyes and hearts toward Jesus. We will be posting daily readings here each week, beginning with this post as well as a family devotional that you, your family and your friends can use to study, celebrate and worship Jesus this season. Check here each week for the weeks readings and look for a post with a link to the Mystery Advent family devotional today.

Enjoy The Season, Enjoy the Savior

Week One Daily Reading

Sunday November 29

Jer 33:14-16, Ps 25:1-10,

1 Th 3:9-13, Lk 21:25-36

Monday November 30

Ps 90, Num 17:1-11,

2 Pt 3:1-18

Tuesday December 1

Ps 90, 2 Sam 7:18-29,

Rev 22:12-16

Wednesday December 2

Ps 90, Is 1:24-31, Lk 11:29-32

Thursday December 3

Lk 1:68-79, Mal 3:5-12,

Phil1:12-18a

Friday December 4

Lk 1:68-79, Mal 3:13-18,

Phil 1:18b-26

Saturday December 5

Lk 1:68-79, Mal 4:1-6,

Lk 9:1-6

Give Love Video

2009-11-29T15:33:00.000-08:00

Watch this short video for our Give Love initiative and then come participate with us in extending the joy of Christmas & Christ to our city and around the world.
There is so much going on this time of year. What if we slowed down, spent less, engaged and enjoyed more?

GIVE LOVE VIDEO - Click the video to watch full size.

EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS

2009-11-21T12:49:00.000-08:00

EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS
Beginning on the fourth Sunday before Christmas day and ending on December 24th is what is known as the season of Advent. This year next Sunday, November 29th is the first day of Advent. Advent means “Coming” or “Arrival” and celebrates the first advent of Jesus when he was born in Bethlehem, and also looks forward to His second advent when he will come to reign as King.

This year at Mystery, we’re calling our Advent season “Experience Christmas”. This is a great opportunity to celebrate Jesus and focus our hearts on Him with friends and family, and there are several ways you can make this time both meaningful and fun:
Downtown Christmas Parade Party – On December 1st, Joplin is having it’s annual Christmas parade, and so we’re having a Pre-Parade party here at the church building! Invite your friends and family and come have a great time with us before the parade. There will be live music, great food, cookie decorating, ornament making, and paintings that tell the Christmas story.

Community Group Christmas Party – Invite your friends and
neighbors to join us on December 9th from 6:30-8:00pm,as we hang
out together, enjoy Jesus and one another.

Advent Devotional – Download Mystery’s Advent devotional from our website (www.mysterychurch.com) and go through the devotions with family and friends.

Advent Daily Bible Readings – Be sure and pick up an Advent Daily Bible reading plan before you leave, and then take some time each day to go through the scriptures that point to Jesus as the coming King!

For more on the Season of Advent, go to www.crivoice.org/cyadvent.html

Give Love 2009

2009-11-17T12:38:00.000-08:00

GIVE LOVE
Mystery's “Give Love” campaign returns again this year even bigger and better! We are expanding our goals year, not only continuing to Give Love globally but also through a new way to Give Love locally! Here’s what’s going on:

GIVE LOVE GLOBAL – It has been a huge blessing to be a part of celebrating Jesus with our brothers and sisters in Uganda and India. We have a goal this year of raising $3000 so we can send $1500 each to Pastor Gerald in Uganda and Pastor Sudakhar in India. Give Love has helped the children and churches of these countries celebrate Jesus each Christmas, providing gifts and support where there is much need. Join us in giving love to these dear friends!

GIVE LOVE LOCAL – We have prayed for how we could bring Give Love to Joplin and this year we have a great opportunity! Watered Gardens is an organization in downtown Joplin that helps meet the needs of people in our area. We are partnering with them this Christmas to give away as many hats and gloves as possible! Mystery’s goal is to give a minimum of 50 sets (hopefully more!) to people in need. This is a very practical and simple way to extend God's grace and Give Love to Joplin! You can sew, knit or purchase gloves and hats for both kids and adults. All donations should be new and unused please. We want to give our best.
GETTING INVOLVED – Being involved in Give Love is easy. We are encouraging everyone at Mystery to donate to both the Global and Local causes this year. $25 or $50 per person and $100 per household would easily raised the money for oversees support. Likewise if each person gave 1 hat and pair of gloves we could warm more than 50 peoples heads and hands. There are Give Love Jars to donate to India and Uganda, and there is a collection box for your hats and gloves!

Make this a family affair. Take your kids shopping for hats and gloves. Let them pick them out. Teach people how to knit or sew. Make it fun. Encourage children to give their own money to the global fund. Talk about why you are doing it and how it expresses the gospel.

We give because we wee given and we are blessed to be a blessing. Enjoy Jesus. Give Love.

Family Meeting and New Member Day Nov 15th

2009-11-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

Sunday November 15th is a big day for Mystery. Please make plans to be there. We will be recognizing our new members that morning and then following the service we will have a Family Meeting and Lunch with all of our new and current Covenant Members. This will be a great time to meet and mingle with people and hear some of what is happening currently and what awaits Mystery in the coming months. Please do all you can to be there especially if you are an Owner at Mystery. God is moving!

EXPLORING MYSTERY Sunday Nov 1st

2009-10-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

New to Mystery? Interested in learning more about the church? Then Exploring Mystery is for you. The first Sunday of each month right after the service we have an informal time to ask questions, hear our story and meet the pastors and leaders. It's short and there are snacks. The perfect place to begin connecting with our church. See you there Nov. 1st

Women of Mystery Doing Lunch

2009-10-26T09:33:00.001-07:00

Women of Mystery are getting together for lunch Friday November 6th at Noon. Join them at Deli du Jour 2310 S Main in Joplin. There will be food, fellowship and fun. This event is open to any and all ladies connected with or wanted to connect with other women at Mystery.

MAN DAY Saturday Oct 17th

2009-09-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

Guys, the Gospel, & Guns!
Men of Mystery Dude Day Saturday October 17, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Cost: $25 for food, travel and fun.
All men are invited to this Men of Mystery all-day event. We'll meet at and leave from the Mystery building at 9:00 sharp!
We'll be heading to Claythorne Lodge (www.claythorne.com) for some Gospel training, Guns, and Good times! Lane Harrison from Lifepoint Church in Ozark, MO will be sharing with us at two sessions. He will be talking about what is required of the men of God and then how we can best structure our lives to accomplish all God's called us to as men. Oh and we'll be shooting some guns at Claythorne's Sporting Clays course!!

Every guy should attend. Cost is $25 for all day and covers lunch, and a round of sporting clays. See Pastor Nate for more details!

Great Day of Service

2009-09-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

Sunday Sept 27th Joplin is having their annual Great Day of Service and this year Mystery is has gotten involved. We have adopted the 500 block of downtown. This includes the east and west side of main st. along with the block behind us (bar row) as well. We are going to be serving our city and loving our neighbors at the same time. Its an incredible opportunity!!

Here is how it will work. Sunday morning we will gather as usual at 10am to worship and love Jesus together and immediately after the service we will hit the streets to clean up and make our neighborhood beautiful, then we will regroup at our building at 2pm for a late lunch together.

What you can do. PLEASE get involved we need 30-50 people to pull this off well. Dress causal. Bring gloves, big black trash bags and lawn equipment (weed-eaters, rakes, etc.) Invite a friend. This is a great opportunity to connect people from all walks with your church family and live out the gospel alongside people.

Seriously mark your calendars and do all you can to make it. its only 3 hours of your afternoon and it could have an enormous impact on our city. Come help make Joplin a better place.

Men of Mystery Monday Night Sept 21st

2009-09-15T12:01:00.001-07:00

Men of Mystery will be meeting this monday night 6:30pm at the Mystery building. We will be eating food and talking about what it means for men to fight for the gospel. This is open to all men (ladies encourage your guys to come).

The gospel is a fight - are you in?

Pass it on....

Sermon Up - Temptation

2009-09-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

Sermon audio from this week is available for download here. Pastor Nate Karnes spoke from James 1 regarding Temptation. How are we to over come sin? Does God temp us? What does it our sin require of God? Listen in for some great teaching from God's word.

Fall Ownership Classes

2009-09-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

Want to know more about Mystery? Curious about Christianity? Looking for a church home? Interested in making Mystery your church? Maybe you just have some questions? The Fall session of our Ownership Seminar Begins Sunday Evening Oct 4th. This class is aimed at answering your questions about Christianty and our church. It consists of 8 sessions over a four week period. Classes begin at 5:30pm and go till 8 with a break for dinner. Childcare is available if you sign up in advance.
This class is a prerequisite for membership at Mystery and is a great time to make new friends and find the answers you are looking for. Its fun, informal and informative. Sign up Sunday mornings at our worship gathering.

Mystery's Gospel Identity - Worshipper

2009-09-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

We are Worshippers

Everyone was made to worship. To worship is to revere and adore. When we worship we attribute glory and honor to someone or something. We all give ourselves and affections to something or someone. We’re hard wired to worship. Ever seen people at a concert or sporting event? Ever stood in awe of the mountains or the ocean? It’s in us and it longs to come out. We’re a church that worships Jesus.

The Westminster Shorter Catechism explains, “The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him for ever.” Jesus glorified the Father. (John 17:1,4) To follow Jesus is to bring glory to God- to worship him. We want to grow as worshippers. There are many idols and false gods in our city and in our lives. We want to replace them with the God of the bible, his truth and grace. As Followers we live to enjoy him everywhere, please him in everything and love him completely.

At Mystery this means we:
Live Holy Lives- Respecting God’s holiness - Keeping ourselves from sin
Live Humbly- Thankful for God’s Grace - Considering others above ourselves
Live Responsibly- Stewarding and managing God’s resources, accountable action
Live Obediently- Keeping all God’s commands- Doers of the Word not just hears

Saturday Work Day September 12th

2009-09-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Join your church family and help ready the building for fall all church work day Sept 12th 10am-2pm. Lots to do and many hands would definitely help. we will be fixing a few things, cleaning and painting the front of the building. come join us. bring a friend and introduce them to your church family. Mark your calendars and make plans to be here Sat. Sept 12th. If you have questions or need specifics contact Vance Eden or talk to him at our Sunday gathering.

The Gospel in our Trials

2009-08-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

The reality of life is sometimes things are hard. It's a false gospel that says being a Christian is easy and that God desires that you be healthy, wealthy and trouble free.

Mystery is two weeks into our study of James and already James, in just the second verse, brings up the subject of trials. It was an issue in the lives of the early church and it's still an issue today. Life in Christ is still life. Anything that happens to a person can still happen to a Christian. THe question is not "if" Trials will come but "When and in what form". The better question for us is how are we as Christ Followers to respond to suffering and difficulty?

First we need to expect trials. They will come. Second we need to not evade or escape difficulty, but rather embrace them and ask ourselves what is God teaching me about himself, my sin and the gospel in this? God takes us through things more than around them.

Our world would have us believe trials are bad, but the gospel, while not giving us exact answers, does give us the tools to respond to suffering. Trails according to James yields spiritual maturity. He calls it "steadfastness" or "Stand-Fast-Ness". The ability to endure and grow through persevering.

What are the rewards of standing fast in suffering and difficulty. James gives a few in verse 2-4.
One Trials reveal and test our faith in God. Jesus wants us to know and acknowledge who we worship, live and hope in cause it has great consequences. Only Jesus can forgive sin and give life, so we want to know if it's Jesus we are loving and serving. Next Trials Refine our Faith. God is out to complete us in him and trials show our needs and build us up in the gospel. Refining is a process of progressive strengthening of our confidence in Christ. Lastly trials Realign our hearts. They are designed to move our eyes off ourselves and onto others. To turn our trust to God and nothing else, to turn our attention to the Cross of Christ and all that he accomplished for sinners in his life, death, burial and resurrection. Finally trials move our minds to have an eternal perspective on things. The kingdom of God is now, but it is also not yet. We need to consider our future in Jesus. It may seem rough now, but it will not be like this forever. Jesus will renew and restore all things. That is good news.

If we learn to live well in our trials, trusting Jesus and growing in the gospel there is peace and joy to be had in this world, even in the midst of difficulties, struggles an suffering.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising bthe shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. - Heb. 12:1-2

Download the complete sermon at mysterychurch.com

ReDesign

2009-08-29T10:23:00.001-07:00

Have you check out mysterychurch.com lately? new stuff abounds. New color scheme and new links. Check it out.

Living Sent

2009-08-24T09:38:00.001-07:00

“As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.” - John 17:18

The church exists to fulfill the mission of the Christ. As he was sent into the world, so we are sent. What does this mean? It means we are sent to rescue the lost. First and foremost we want to show people Jesus and see them come to love him. We are sent to make disciples. Jesus command modeled his method. He did not say go make converts to a religious system, rather go make disciples. We call people to come see Jesus, then to follow and remain in him. Making disciples is the means of fulfilling the mission. Call people to trust Jesus person and work, to obey his teachings, to be baptized and join his church on mission. It’s in him we find life and on mission that we find our meaning in life. We were made to worship God and witness of the gospel flows from hearts worshipping Jesus.

Being on mission will also require being in the world. We can’t hide in our Christian ghettos. Do we really need another Christian version of anything (Christian gas station, car lot or hair salon) or do we simply need Christians living and working in the city, for the good of the city. The church is called to gather, but we are also commanded to scatter, to fan out into dark places bringing the light of the gospel to bear. Think of everyday, everywhere and everyone as an opportunity to worship Jesus. Who came for you, saves you for himself and sends you for his glory and your good.

Lastly we are sent in community. God the Father sent God the Son who sent God the Spirit. Jesus prayed we would be like them, working together for God’s glory in harmony and in community. Discipleship and mission is a community project. Don’t think invitations and events, think community and involvement. Christian is a verb more than it’s a noun.

Pure Religion - New Series in James

2009-08-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

Mystery is starting a new teaching series this Sunday August 23rd through the book of James. How does the gospel work itself out in our lives? Whats the difference between looking Christian and being a Christ Follower. Is religion dangerous? How? We will be spending the next several months in the book of James looking at a life shaped by the gospel. Join us 10am Sundays downtown and then during the week at one of our community groups to explore James in more detail.

ARTWALK THIS WEEK

2009-08-17T12:27:00.000-07:00

Come learn about and love Joplin. Experience art, music, people, food and so much more. This Thursday 5:30-8:30 Main St. in Downtown Joplin. Check out the Galleries hosted by Mystery and the many more local artists featured throughout the Main St. galleries.We are in need of people to help set up this Wednesday evening at 5:30. If you can come serve the artists we would appreciate it. Also we need people from Mystery to help Thursday the night of the even. Thee is something for everyone, hosting, clean up, food...you name it we could use it. Work a couple hours, meet new people and walk the rest of main street. Excellent Missional Opportunity for the whole family or for you and your friends.

Evidence of Abiding Pt 2

2009-08-13T13:08:00.000-07:00

"By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples." - John 15:8

Five ways you know you are abiding in Christ - Living as his disciple (John 15:1-17)

1. Living a Life of Obedience v.10
Are you lead by His Word
Are you living in accordance with His Will
Are you walking in His Way of living

2. Living a Life of Dependence v.7, 16
In Me…My Word, My Love, My Commands
Is you life marked by desperate and dependent prayer?
Are your prayers God glorifying, Christ Focused and Mission minded?
Is your life lived confident in and dependent upon the Spirit of God working in you?

3. Living a Life of Love
Are you loving God and people?
Are you loving people as God loved the world, sending his treasured son?
Are you loving the church as Jesus loved his church?
Are you loving others as Christ loved you?

4. A Life Lived in Community v.12
Are you known by and knowing those in your church?
Do you meet regularly with other Christians involved in the same local church?
Are you praying and playing with each other outside organized church times?

5. Life Lived on Mission v.16
Has anyone seen Jesus reflected in you this week?
Are you not only living as a disciple but making disciples?
Are you sharing the gospel verbally as well as visually in your life?

Ask your self these questions. Analyze your life honestly. Repent of any area not in line with the gospel. Allow God to prune you so that your life bears much fruit. Pray for God to make your life more and more in line with the gospel and more and more looking like Jesus'. For his glory, your joy and the good of those around you.

Evidence of Abiding Pt 1

2009-08-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Many people think that becoming a Christian is the same thing as being a Christian. We tend to see following Jesus as a one time event rather than a constant and continual lifestyle. To truly be a disciple, or Christ Follower, we have to following Jesus daily. Following him means we have had our eyes and hearts opened by the Spirit of God to see Jesus as he is - God, Savior and King. It means to respond to the Spirit by following Jesus faithfully. It means receiving a new identity (his) but it's also LIVING in this new identity each and every minute of each and every day. Jesus calls it "Abiding" in John 15. The word means to remain in, survive by, or exist. Thats pretty powerful. Not only does Jesus offer life, but he is life and to truly live we must remain in him. It's daily trust in his daily truth. Are you right now living in the reality of who Jesus is, what he has done and who you are in him? Are you relying on his identity and responding out of it in each and every decision? That's what it is to abide...to exist in Christ.

Fall Community Groups

2009-08-10T12:10:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again! The fall is coming. Schedules are getting tighter, school is starting and people are coming back to town and settling down from vacations and travels. It's exciting for a church and also very busy. The best part is that Mystery's Gospel Communities start back up. The last week of August our Community Groups reform and begin gathering together to laugh, share, care, study and pray with one another. Community Groups are where growth and relationships happen at there best.
We have double the number of groups this fall to six! We have groups from north to south Joplin and into Webb City. There is one for everyone and our goal is to see anyone and everyone that calls Mystery home connected and committed to a Community Group. It's the gospel, it's family, it's vital as well as enjoyable.
We've got lots planned for the fall through our groups including missional involvement in the city, serving the church, our neighbors and those in need. Also we will be studying through the book of James together during the week as well as teaching through it on Sundays.
Everyone is welcome. Find and sign up for a group at our Sunday Morning gathering. It could be the best thing you did this year.

What's Happin at Mystery - Fall 2009 Kick-Off Calendar

2009-07-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone.

Hope your enjoying the awesome mild July temperatures. Wanted to let everyone know what' going at at a church called Mystery in the next few weeks. Be sure to check out the website (mysterychurch.com) as well as our blog, facebook and twitter feed for more information.

-Tonight Wed the 29th Last Mid Week Mystery community gathering and Jonah bible study 6:30 at our downtown location
-This Sunday August 2nd New series "Disciple" - What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus?
-Sunday August 16th - Re-Launch weekend. School begins and so does a new semester of Mystery - Invite your friends & neighbors
-Sunday August 23rd we enter out fall series on through the book of James
-The week of August 24th Community Groups begin. We'll have information and sign-ups in the coming weeks
-Exploring Mystery Sunday September 6th - This is immediately after service an is a time to hear our hearts, ask questions of our pastors as well as eat snacks and meet members of Mystery. It lasts about 45 minutes and is a great entry point for new guests.
-Ownership Seminar - This is Mystery's Membership and Gospel 101 class that will take place Sunday evenings in October. Its for people examining Christianity and/or looking to make Mystery their church. Everyone's welcome.

Stayed tuned. It's an exciting and busy time of year and Jesus is definitely at work in the people and hearts of Mystery to see the city transformed for his glory and our good. Mark your calendars and make plans to be part of the excitement!

Love Live Enjoy - This is Mystery

NEW SERIES IN AUGUST - DISCIPLE

2009-07-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

August is a time where we transition from summer into the fall. This means getting back int he groove, back on schedule and back to school. For Mystery is means getting back on mission. We'll spend three weeks in August looking at our Discipleship Pathway. What does it mean to be a disciple and make disciples. Come and See, Follow Abide and Multiply as we regather and head into a new season of gospel growth at Mystery.

Beaten

2009-07-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

“Thou art beaten that thou mayest be better” - John Bunyan

Suffering and Decisions

2009-07-13T15:24:00.000-07:00

“When God brings suffering into your life as a Christian, be it small or drastic, he is forcing you to decide on issues you have been avoiding.” - Joni Eareckson Tada

Jonah and the Gospel pt 3

2009-07-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

The Gospel is for the lost and for the saved. Not only did Nineveh need the gospel but Jonah needed the gospel. Christians must live with constant reminding of both our sinfulness and God’s grace, continually repenting of sin, living our way over his will, and , always acknowledging his mercy and grace to save a sinner like me.

Jonah and the Gospel pt 2

2009-07-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

“Boasting is the response of pride to success. Self-pity is the response of pride to failure.” – Piper

Jonah felt arrogant because of his heritage, status and success which caused him to loose sight of grace and become unwilling to share it. His racial and religious stressfulness caused him to feel superior to others.

When Jonah failed to run from God’s presence he overtaken by self-pity and despair. He could not meet his own expectations of perfection.

This is why we all need the gospel. It is the only message that that crushes our pride and repairs our confidence, making us both Holy and Humble.

Jonah and the Gospel pt 1

2009-07-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

Jonah needed the gospel to bring him down to size. He then needed the gospel to build him up in grace.

We all like Jonah need the weight of the gospel to bring us down to size. Then through the grace of gospel God builds us up in hope & joy.