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.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
This is Christmas
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.
Friday, December 03, 2010
Give Love
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
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
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!!!
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!
Friday, November 05, 2010
Derek Webb and Sandra McCracken Concert!
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
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
Thursday, November 04, 2010
November Update for Mystery
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.
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.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Daylight Savings Time!
Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour Sunday November 7th or jokes on you when you show up an hour early!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
How You Can Join Us
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
FIGHT! One Day Mens Conference at Mystery
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
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
Monday, September 27, 2010
Where We're Going
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.
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
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.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
What Do We Do
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.
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.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Who We Are
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.
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
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
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
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.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
UPCOMING CONCERT AND WORSHIP NIGHT
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.
Cost is your choice, but all donations will go toward and benefit West Central Elementary.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Welcome to the Gospel
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
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
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