Finish the statements.
Peanut butter and ….
Eggs and ….
Leonardo, Raphael, ….. and …..
Moe, Larry and …
Every one of these items, people, or characters are significant in and of themselves. They are complete. And yet, when united with the others, they become far more than the sum of the individuals.
Peanut butter, jelly and bread make a sandwich. Eggs and bacon, or ham, or sausage, make breakfast. Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo comprise a unique team of mutant heroes or the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance, depending on your age. Moe, Larry and Curley (or Shemp, or Joe) give you the Three Stooges.
Now, I know I’ll get into trouble for comparing the GTBN to the Three Stooges. There’s really little comparison, except for the jokes of a certain preacher who shall remain unnamed. But consider this, the influence of these men together far surpasses the comedic talents of any one of them.
In much the same way, when the churches of GTBN work together, the gospel influence of our mutual effort far exceeds the influence of any single congregation, however great that may be. Together we help one another, supporting and sharpening each other as we make disciples across southeast Texas. Together we plant new congregations and work toward replanting others. Together we train Kekchi pastors in Belize. And soon, together we will share the gospel through our local prisons.
So, if you say we’re like the Three Stooges, or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, I’ll gladly take that comparison. Because, like them, we’re better together.
Blessings!
Bro. Jim