Include Them

Nov 9, 2025    Pastor Lonnie Campbell

At the heart of this message lies a powerful truth about belonging and inclusion in God's kingdom. Drawing from Luke 8:1-3, we discover how Jesus revolutionized ministry by including women who had been healed and delivered—Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and others—not just as recipients of grace but as active participants in His mission. This passage reveals a beautiful pattern: Jesus first ministered to their needs, delivered them from spiritual bondage, built genuine relationships with them, and then invited them into purposeful service. What makes this so profound is that Jesus didn't lead with condemnation or religious rules; He led with love and supernatural transformation. These women responded not out of obligation but out of gratitude and a deep sense of belonging. In our fragmented world where technology promises connection but often delivers isolation, we're reminded that the deepest human need remains unchanged—the need to belong. This message challenges us to move beyond simply believing in Jesus to actively including others in the family of God. It's about building relationships with those around us, meeting practical needs, and creating space for people to encounter God's transforming love. When we focus on individuals rather than just crowds, when we see needs rather than inconveniences, we become conduits of God's inclusive love. The call is clear: we're living in a new wave of revival, and we have the opportunity to participate by reaching out with intentionality, sharing hope, and demonstrating that in Christ, everyone has a place to belong.