The term Christian was first applied to a group of ethnically and racially diverse believers in Antioch, the capital of Syria. They were drawn together by the gospel and witnessed the power of God’s love in the midst of urban strife and problems. Across cities of the world, as in New York City, strong spiritual bonds flourish between Christian faith and large urban areas. It’s a combination that shatters cultural barriers, and causes conversions, the transformation of lives, personal depth, charity, and social action. God has a heart for the city, do you?

In life we are inevitably changed and shaped by the things we desire. When good things turn into ultimate things, they become idols. However, by devoting our lives to the gospel, we can give up our idols and look to Jesus, with whom we died and are now raised.