tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83566733682073414142024-03-12T10:56:20.266-04:00Fourth Year MinistriesFourth Year Ministries exists to bring glory to God through emphasizing the biblical church leadership given by Christ to equip His church to live for the glory of God. Get Equipped. Obey Your King. Glorify Your God.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-43611690896176898002020-11-17T12:25:00.001-05:002020-11-17T15:49:10.498-05:00What's The Big Deal About Attending Church?<p> You've probably heard it a million times by now. <i>We are living in unprecedented and uncertain times.</i></p><p></p>So much of what is being discussed right now is political. I want to be clear: this is not a political post. It's not a left wing or a right wing thing. I'm making a theological statement as a follower of Jesus Christ.<p></p><p>I'm not shying away from politics because I'm afraid of it. Instead, I am refusing to talk much about politics during these times because talking about Christ is way more important. It was more important <i>before</i> these times. It will be more important afterward, too.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhH691cmmxU6Ki4NcPVD27gWDGVwtX31j121tkHm378nLjwAocgloGUDsb9BkELUA_uYuTFMFgs75vbpgvDTaBMOr5xzOli_iJcMgMv2Aas-fjXhSJLK8mOk8vX9bukiLdBdL04ab6-4/s1043/Jesus+Is+King+Tract.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Matter Who is President, Jesus is King" border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="747" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhH691cmmxU6Ki4NcPVD27gWDGVwtX31j121tkHm378nLjwAocgloGUDsb9BkELUA_uYuTFMFgs75vbpgvDTaBMOr5xzOli_iJcMgMv2Aas-fjXhSJLK8mOk8vX9bukiLdBdL04ab6-4/w227-h320/Jesus+Is+King+Tract.png" title="No Matter Who's President, Jesus is King" width="227" /></a></div>As one of the tracts we've distributed in the past so eloquently puts it: No matter who is president, Jesus is King. (You can get some of these tracts for yourself from our friends at <a href="http://onemilliontracts.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">onemilliontracts.com</a> -- they have <a href="https://onemilliontracts-com.3dcartstores.com/Jesus-Is-King-Bumper-Sticker--10-x-3_p_38.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bumper stickers</a> and <a href="https://onemilliontracts-com.3dcartstores.com/Jesus-Is-King-Magnet--3-DIA-_p_306.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">magnets</a>, too.)<br /><p></p><p>Due to the overemphasis on politics, we've allowed everything to become politicized. Even attending church nowadays is a political statement.</p><p>Let's all just stop for a second and take a deep breath. Hopefully we can all settle down for a minute so we can remember why attending church is so important for the people of God.</p><p>The author of Hebrews stated the importance of remembering to gather together as believers frequently. This becomes more important as the end draws closer and closer. Frankly, it's more important for Christians to assemble together now more than ever simply because we are nearer now to the end than ever before.</p><p>Attending church isn't supposed to be primarily a political statement. It's also not some legalistic thing to check off a list. Nor is it simply some unimportant thing that can be neglected or abandoned when times are uncertain or our gathering becomes inconvenient or even dangerous. You do know that many of our brothers and sisters in Christ gather around the world in places where it is illegal, right? Many face persecution and the threat of death every day of their walk with Jesus. There is no vaccine that will protect them from this type of danger.</p><p>When I was in Ethiopia, I had the privilege of standing next to the ruins of a previous house of worship that was burned down by an unruly mob. The mob told these faithful followers of Christ that if they came back again, they'd kill them. This mob burned their Bibles. This mob also included members of the local police and government officials. Talk about systemic injustice and persecution.</p><p>Yet, these believers gathered again the following week to worship God upon the ashes. It was worth it to them to worship God despite the physical danger to their own lives. Fortunately, a revival swept through their city and many of their persecutors repented and came to saving faith in Christ. Either way, they were willing to count the cost. It could have just as easily been their last gathering this side of eternity.</p><p>Jesus never told us following Him would be easy. That's a lie from the hucksters and charlatans who are peddling God's word for their own gain. And don't worry, those same people are still happily accepting contact-free donations online in these uncertain times. For your safety.</p><p>I'm not saying that if you are sick you should gather in groups and make everyone else sick, too. I am also not going to pretend I haven't seen that the world has shown several examples of things they think are more important than forsaking assembling in these same times. People are gathering -- on both sides of the political spectrum -- for protests, political rallies, and to celebrate their candidates being elected. Yet, gathering to worship God is more important than all of these things combined. That's not to say politics and protesting injustice are <i>un</i>important, just lesser in importance when compared to the most important thing: worshipping our Creator, King, and Savior. The God whose throne is established on a foundation of justice and righteousness (Psalm 97:2).</p><p>So, what's the big deal about assembling together as believers? What's the point? Can't we listen to sermons online, pray together via the prayer chain emails and social media groups, and worship God on our own with streaming music services?</p><p>We can do those things. But the thing we are missing when we fail to assemble is, well, <i>other believers</i>. Something very significant happens every Sunday morning when believers gather in various local assemblies, scattered across the face of the earth to worship God collectively as the people of God. It is something that cannot be substituted.</p><p><b>When we gather together we don't gather to hear a sermon.</b> Although hearing God's word preached can be a great blessing.</p><p><b>When we gather together we don't gather to be led in songs of worship.</b> Although faithful music leaders can be a great blessing.</p><p><b>When we gather we don't gather to have someone administer over our prayer requests.</b> Although having a strong prayer ministry can be a great blessing.</p><p><b>When we gather we don't gather to give a financial offering to the Lord.</b> Although it is truly more blessed to give than to receive.</p><p><b>When we gather we don't gather to check something off our list.</b> Although growing in spiritual discipline can be a great blessing.</p><p>So, what do we gather to do? It's so simple really. You may even think I'm being silly for saying it.</p><p>The purpose of our assembling together is to <i>assemble together</i>. This is why it can't be counterfeited. No matter how many technological advances we manufacture, when we aren't together, <i>we aren't together</i>. Right?</p><p><b>There is power in assembling together. There is unity. There is edification. There is accountability. There is a statement to the world that no matter how uncertain our times, we are certain that God is worthy of being worshipped.</b></p><p>I remember speaking with someone who was thinking about leaving their local fellowship because they didn't appreciate some of the order of service and the lack of programming options. It became clear that they had expectations about how these various items -- sermons, music styles, child care options, etc. -- were the most important thing on their mind. I asked them to consider changing their expectations and focus on the importance of gathering together with other faithful believers who were of like mind in desiring to lift up Jesus in their own lives and in the world.</p><p>They responded to me with the simple statement, "Are you saying I should lower my expectations?"</p><p>Quite the contrary! I am saying you should <i>raise </i>them.</p><p>If you want to listen to powerful and eloquent sermons, you can do that any time thanks to modern technology. If you want to sing great worship music, you can have the most talented musicians lead you anytime you want, via those same technological avenues.</p><p>But you know what you could never reproduce no matter how much technology you invest in or how many subscriptions you buy? You can never replicate the simple power of the assembling of God's people together each week as a testimony of the grace of God and His worthiness to be worshipped in all seasons of life and in every culture, circumstance, and context.</p><p>The author of Hebrews was right. Let's not forsake the assembly. Not now and not ever. Not until the Lord returns to gather us home.</p><p>We don't gather as a local church to protest. We don't gather to make a political statement. We gather to show the world that our God reigns and He is worthy of our worship. At least, it's why we should.</p>Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-20180045638666386092019-03-01T17:36:00.001-05:002020-09-16T14:05:29.674-04:00The Church Isn't A Business<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj447RwlV3MrH47-9JrtfNmdMM3Z5C2Zj9cQFc4SZ6TPc7PLdr_yC1FJ3s-Tb70PKvL5A015U_xyIxYlkaHFM-oh53Or2WWyOog4cykP4VHTHqB9gRJiYXt2ecUNpM1FfSxVwp9B1CMx4Q/s1600/Business+Gears.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Business Gears" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj447RwlV3MrH47-9JrtfNmdMM3Z5C2Zj9cQFc4SZ6TPc7PLdr_yC1FJ3s-Tb70PKvL5A015U_xyIxYlkaHFM-oh53Or2WWyOog4cykP4VHTHqB9gRJiYXt2ecUNpM1FfSxVwp9B1CMx4Q/s640/Business+Gears.jpg" title="Business Machinery" width="640" /></a></div>I used to be a salesman. I sold a lot of different stuff. I worked retail. I did door-to-door. In all my various jobs my function was essentially the same. I was the link between company and customer.<br />
<br />
Successful companies know their customer demographics. Many sales meetings revolve around numbers. Persons are treated as statistics. The customer becomes a set of numbers, preferences, and habits. Really successful companies cater their goods and services to a target demographic.<br />
<br />
<h2>It's all about the consumer experience.</h2><br />
I remember when I began in pastoral ministry. People assured me that my experience as a salesman would be beneficial. They said there was a lot of overlap between pastors and salespeople. That may be true in our experience. But is it true of what we read in Scripture?<br />
<br />
When I open my Bible and read about Christ's church I see a beautiful design that is very different from a business. Night and day different.<br />
<br />
When Jesus walked the earth He rebuked those who failed to understand the difference.<br />
<b><i><br />
And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables. And He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables; and to those who were selling the doves He said, "Take these things away; <u>stop making My Father's house a place of business</u>."</i> (John 2:14-16, underline added)</b><br />
<br />
The Bible teaches that Christ is the head of the church. Every member is vital. When one member hurts everyone suffers. When the church is operating correctly each member is active, everyone is edified, the world is evangelized, and our God is glorified.<br />
<br />
<h2>It's amazing. Beautiful. Powerful. Glorious.</h2><br />
On the other hand, in the business-church model the pastor is the head of the church. Most members are expendable. The <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/05/the-scandal-of-passive-christianity.html">crowd of spectators</a> participate by being counted in attendance or contribution numbers. There is a wide separation between the leaders and the congregation. Connection between the members is often minimal, too. The suffering of many makes little to no impact upon the rest of the congregation. People come and go, often without anyone noticing. When they are noticed it is by the finance team or the ushers because they see the numbers are off.<br />
<br />
Is this acceptable? Can we be satisfied with a model where the contribution of many members is restricted to being <b>counted</b>? Treated as if they are just numbers and not persons? Does this arrangement honor and glorify God? Is it what we read about in Scripture?<br />
<br />
<b>Christianity is not a product that is to be sold to a target demographic.</b> Quite the contrary.<br />
<br />
The church is not called to conform their <b>services</b> to the preferences of the people. Instead, the <b>people</b> are called to be conformed by the grace of God into the image of Christ. All people. All nations. Not some. Not a core demographic. <b>All</b>.<br />
<br />
The church doesn't offer services. The church serves. People aren't called to consume. They are called to repent, believe, and follow Christ. They are called to freely give what they have freely received.<br />
<br />
The Bible describes the church as a body, not a business. The business of the body is to make faithful disciples not happy customers.<br />
<br />
Catering our product to the preferences of our customers may be good business. But it has no place in the church.<br />
<b><i><br />
I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. <u>For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires</u>, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.</i> (2 Timothy 4:1-4, underline added)</b><br />
<br />
Businesses come and go. Some seem like they'll be around forever and have amazing success for a season. Then they're gone with the winds of change. The church, however, has an eternal purpose.<br />
<br />
Don't settle for a business-model church. Strive for the real thing. It may be messy. It may be uncomfortable. It will certainly be counter-cultural. And it will undoubtedly be glorious.<br />
<br />
The church isn't designed for you to be a consumer. If you are born-again you have been gifted to edify the body. You are designed to be edified by the body. As we each do our part the whole body will grow and we will all be equipped to proclaim the glory and excellence of our God to the ends of the earth.<br />
<br />
To the praise and glory of His great name.<div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Related Videos</h2><div><br /><div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YJ_6fDbGiPM" width="560"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VBhvf1eYuFM" width="560"></iframe></div></div>Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-15125771998786662782019-02-22T10:15:00.000-05:002019-02-22T10:15:25.207-05:00Three Obstacles To Salvation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9iDDhyphenhyphenrPotHdOLY_prw6dgtn3RTRvHknF4YKWCzUw0Y0s7oFzLEw5qJ-znHAUVlcUd2DQzkZhvou8je9HGXm3mz0gQCvai8YYHNWrXkGomx4XwYMh4lr2qFUQ09Y1pg8uwnojWbY2o2M/s1600/Obstacle+Course.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9iDDhyphenhyphenrPotHdOLY_prw6dgtn3RTRvHknF4YKWCzUw0Y0s7oFzLEw5qJ-znHAUVlcUd2DQzkZhvou8je9HGXm3mz0gQCvai8YYHNWrXkGomx4XwYMh4lr2qFUQ09Y1pg8uwnojWbY2o2M/s400/Obstacle+Course.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
My children sometimes enjoy making obstacle courses. In our backyard. In the basement. They enjoy racing against each other to see who can get through the course the fastest.<br />
<br />
Some adults enjoy obstacle courses.<br />
<br />
<b>I am not one of those adults.</b><br />
<br />
Obstacles are annoying to me. I prefer a straight, smooth course. Even still, life is filled with obstacles. They are unavoidable. We must learn to deal with them.<br />
<br />
Everyone who desires to live as a witness of Jesus Christ needs to understand three common obstacles to the salvation of others. We must understand and look for them so we can faithfully navigate the way.<br />
<br />
<h2>
1. The Enemy.</h2>
The Bible describes the devil as the god of this world. Part of his work is to blind people to the gospel.<br />
<b><i><br />
And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.</i> (2 Corinthians 4:3-4)</b><br />
<br />
Jesus likewise warned of the work of the enemy.<br />
<b><i><br />
"When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the one on whom seed was sown beside the road."</i> (Matthew 13:19)</b><br />
<br />
The devil blinds eyes. He steals what has been sown. Many don't believe Satan is real. He does his work in the dark. Those he blinds think they can see. When he steals what is sown he steals something that wasn't even understood. They don't know anything has been lost.<br />
<br />
<h2>
2. The Will.</h2>
The human will is incredibly powerful. The Creator of the heavens and earth established boundaries for the seas. They obey Him. He has put each star in its place. They remain unchanging. Yet the human will is able to resist the commands of God. To disobey. To reject.<br />
<br />
Jesus lamented over the human will refusing to come to God. He lamented over Jerusalem.<br />
<b><i><br />
"Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and <u>you were unwilling.</u>"</i> (Matthew 23:37, underline added)</b><br />
<br />
Jesus also confronted the Jews in His day for their unwillingness to believe. He was standing before them. They claimed they were waiting for Him. Yet they were unwilling to come to Him. Their will blinded them to what was before their eyes. Their will caused them to reject the Messiah.<br />
<b><i><br />
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; and <u>you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life</u>."</i> (John 5:39-40, underline added)</b><br />
<br />
Some are blinded supernaturally by the god of this world. The human will causes people to blind themselves. The Apostle Paul describes the fallen will in vivid terms.<br />
<b><i><br />
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.</i> (Romans 1:18-19)</b><br />
<br />
Many suppress the truth in their unrighteousness. This is like putting the truth in a box and forcefully keeping the lid on to hide it from themselves. Suppressing the truth is evident when witnessing. Many people willfully close their own eyes while proclaiming with their lips that they don't see any evidence for God.<br />
<br />
<h2>
3. Hypocrisy in the lives of Christians.</h2>
God commands His people not to use His name in vain. Most people think of this only as words. This is just as applicable to our actions.<br />
<br />
God brought severe judgment upon the house of Israel for blaspheming His name by their actions.<br />
<b><i><br />
Therefore, son of man, speak to the house of Israel and say to them, "Thus says the Lord GOD, 'Yet in this your fathers have blasphemed Me by acting treacherously against Me.'"</i> (Ezekiel 20:27)</b><br />
<br />
The Apostle Paul told the Jews in Romans 2 that by their breaking of the commandments in the view of the Gentiles they were fulfilling Isaiah 52:5,<br />
<b><i><br />
You who boast in the Law, through your breaking the Law, do you dishonor God? For "THE NAME OF GOD IS BLASPHEMED AMONG THE GENTILES BECAUSE OF YOU," just as it is written.</i> (Romans 2:23-24)</b><br />
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In our modern setting we have many who take the name "Christian" upon themselves. Many claim to love the Lord but refuse to obey His commands. But Jesus said, <i><b>"If you love Me, you will keep My commandments"</b></i> (John 14:15) and <b><i>"He who does not love Me does not keep My words"</i></b> (John 14:24).<br />
<br />
Those who claim the Lord with their lips but deny Him with their lives bring reproach upon His holy name. They blaspheme God's name and character with their own actions.<br />
<b><i><br />
They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.</i> (Titus 1:16)</b><br />
<br />
Christians are strictly instructed to avoid throwing this obstacle in the path of others.<br />
<b><i><br />
...giving no cause for offense in anything, so that the ministry will not be discredited.</i> (2 Corinthians 6:3)</b><br />
<br />
The context of this passage is not receiving the grace of God in vain. The context is describing the ministry of reconciliation. Acting in ways contrary to the will of God while calling yourself a follower of Christ can cause the ministry of reconciliation to be discredited.<br />
<br />
Jesus warns His followers against doing this.<br />
<b><i><br />
He said to His disciples, "It is inevitable that stumbling blocks come, but woe to him through whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than that he would cause one of these little ones to stumble."</i> (Luke 17:1-2)</b><br />
<br />
<h2>
How do you deal with these obstacles?</h2>
To be faithful, you must have a strategy. You must understand how to navigate these obstacles by the grace and will of God to the glory of His great name.<br />
<br />
Get equipped. Obey your King. Glorify your God.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-76031061338148633422019-02-21T13:17:00.000-05:002020-03-22T12:52:06.441-04:00Learn To Love Theological Tension<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-fXGTHWX2ovBen-QiDwk_OoA19lIW4zJhsa_ezEm-EWNhe_oqjIGt4faZUqIL-B0Nlb2S1ShowZnda8IN9x3e4sdrzSUzVwaqhZBgMBbUkA7WfOvzDy6JFQUma4d51hgISVWtqXXhJA/s1600/Tension.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Learn To Love Tension" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-fXGTHWX2ovBen-QiDwk_OoA19lIW4zJhsa_ezEm-EWNhe_oqjIGt4faZUqIL-B0Nlb2S1ShowZnda8IN9x3e4sdrzSUzVwaqhZBgMBbUkA7WfOvzDy6JFQUma4d51hgISVWtqXXhJA/s400/Tension.jpg" title="Learn To Love Tension" width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
Most people I know are trying to eliminate tension in their lives.</h2>
Commercials offer products to reduce it. People go on vacations to escape it. Medications are designed to help people forget it.<br />
<br />
Tension carries a negative connotation for many. Certain types of tension can be hazardous to your health.<br />
<br />
Not everyone avoids tension. Some types of tension are sought on purpose. Some types of tension can even be beneficial.<br />
<br />
Bodybuilders actively seek muscular tension. To gain strength and muscle mass they intentionally put their muscles under as much tension as possible for as long as they can. Tension is positive in this case.<br />
<br />
I believe Christians should actively seek theological tension. I believe this is healthy. Like weightlifters need to learn to love the burn, Christians need to learn to love theological tension.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFLZSuHVgG2Pl-1eHebyJ6x9bkjyMEtJpAz369nNQTWn2jf5SrJUZ7NrLtGln_3r8gfApu4VEStP75XGdcMy2xJIRuSmftxk_VWPhsFshWGX2YIVzPos-9VlBEH8AUlF_MRyBmsHlSEw/s1600/Arguing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Quarrel" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFLZSuHVgG2Pl-1eHebyJ6x9bkjyMEtJpAz369nNQTWn2jf5SrJUZ7NrLtGln_3r8gfApu4VEStP75XGdcMy2xJIRuSmftxk_VWPhsFshWGX2YIVzPos-9VlBEH8AUlF_MRyBmsHlSEw/s400/Arguing.jpg" title="Argue" width="400" /></a></div>
Let's be clear. Theological tension does <u>not</u> mean theological arguments. It doesn't mean looking for people you disagree with. Those types of tension are mostly external. Those types of tension Scripture tells us to avoid. The Bible calls tension of this type by another name. Quarreling.<br />
<br />
<i><b>But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels.</b></i> (2 Timothy 2:23, NASB)<br />
<br />
The theological tension that I am suggesting we learn to love is internal. It can help us to:<br />
<ul>
<li>remain humble and patient with others</li>
<li>maintain unity with Christians who hold different opinions on disputable matters</li>
<li>reduce laziness and apathy toward holiness and obedience</li>
<li>rest more in the Lord</li>
</ul>
Theological tension arises when we encounter what some call "mystery" or "paradox." For example, when we think about the sovereignty of God and human moral responsibility.<br />
<br />
The strategy of many Christians and denominations is to avoid tension. Pick one side or the other. Then build a wall and fight with people on the other side.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUh2L9UXFie9JJ-Ojpot5D7xUSCUpz3PLH0zsEDUiJDAkk61huYGpfXVSr5WrxhU11m36jIaagvK3OOzibXpPB5RYfG0t5wWdTw5QN53i6PA2UkayA6pw6L7bgp3WM3sFqoDYOdKDVu0/s1600/Vs+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Versus!" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUh2L9UXFie9JJ-Ojpot5D7xUSCUpz3PLH0zsEDUiJDAkk61huYGpfXVSr5WrxhU11m36jIaagvK3OOzibXpPB5RYfG0t5wWdTw5QN53i6PA2UkayA6pw6L7bgp3WM3sFqoDYOdKDVu0/s400/Vs+2.jpg" title="Fight!" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>I'm a Calvinist! I maintain the sovereignty of God!</i><br />
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<i>I'm an Arminian! I maintain human responsibility and freedom of the will!</i><br />
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When we flop to one side or the other we are running from tension. Can we just be honest? The Bible affirms <i>both</i>. God is sovereign. Human beings are responsible for our actions. When we pick one or the other we are doing violence to the Scriptures. Usually, people tend to emphasize whichever aspect makes them more comfortable. Sometimes we pick the position that makes us <i>less</i> comfortable. Almost always, our decision to be committed to one side or the other requires us to make decisions as to which passages of Scripture we deem more important than others. And we then quarrel with Christians who make different decisions and order their Scriptures differently.<br />
<br />
Tension, or the lack of it, has huge implications on our theology. It affects how we think and believe about important matters of life and faith like prayer, evangelism, service, and even who we vote for. Whichever side we flop to will have influence on how we pray (or don't), evangelize (or don't), serve (or don't), and vote (or don't). The list goes on.<br />
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Perhaps you've wondered why some of these theological issues are so difficult. It seems possible that if the Scriptures were a <i>little</i> clearer on some issues perhaps Christians wouldn't be so divided. I want to present to you a theory that this seeming tension exists on purpose. It is for our benefit if we understand why it's there.<br />
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Our present state of division and denominational-ism isn't God's fault. It's not because the Scriptures can be hard to understand in some places.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgdCnzdSxnfhsX0HV3r5wJgbAc6xZWevUZN0HnVdlFnwmhjsU-MEtWwISPa7gjBVLDDeg7wPS_JqTvJEmY5yOrsKtvyZfKFCDaBavrXG0RKAysrYNMkzKSoZfxQxFjfkteuhI7_dlLEI/s1600/Divided+Groups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Us and Them" border="0" data-original-height="1145" data-original-width="1600" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgdCnzdSxnfhsX0HV3r5wJgbAc6xZWevUZN0HnVdlFnwmhjsU-MEtWwISPa7gjBVLDDeg7wPS_JqTvJEmY5yOrsKtvyZfKFCDaBavrXG0RKAysrYNMkzKSoZfxQxFjfkteuhI7_dlLEI/s400/Divided+Groups.jpg" title="Us and Them" width="400" /></a></div>
Our division is because we have resisted the tension. We don't want to be pulled in two directions, so we pick one and go with it. We justify our decision. We have chosen a side. Then we fight with others who picked a different side than us. We try to make ourselves feel better by telling everyone that <i>they</i> are wrong.<br />
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Usually, <i>they</i> have just chosen to emphasize different Scriptures than <i>we</i> have.<br />
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We need to recognize that the Scriptures <i>they</i> quote are <u>not</u> contradictory to our pet passages. They <u>are</u> meant to be held in tension with our favorite verses. Of course, sometimes people do use Scriptures completely inappropriately and do violence to the true meaning in context. I'm not really talking about that type of abuse of Scripture.<br />
<br />
I believe God gave us this tension for a reason. It wasn't so we would fight with each other. It is because human beings are fickle creatures.<br />
<br />
When I get worried about the direction of our world and country I read a passage like this and it gives me peace:<br />
<br />
<b><i>"Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."</i> (Psalm 46:10)</b><br />
<br />
When I start to think God has got this world under control so I can focus on some "me" time, I read a passage like this:<br />
<br />
<b><i>Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.</i> (Philippians 1:27)</b><br />
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One tells me to cease striving. The other tells me to strive.<br />
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Should I pick one and put it on a refrigerator magnet and tear the other out of my Bible? Should I fight with other Christians who have the other verse on their refrigerator? Do I need to label myself and pick a side?<br />
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Nope.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVR2GhsPBS7K-yUoe80-gJXHEurB6Whc0SoiHUZpUvg1W7we1kJ3Fq3N4HH0tBpa9OZhoUz4RjVUZZ4Ri-otnzE2lbxuk2guTarrBsLG6W7ScH9OlH5cBIoAd9sBVj3msOk2yotHDNuQ/s1600/Balance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Balance in Tension" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVR2GhsPBS7K-yUoe80-gJXHEurB6Whc0SoiHUZpUvg1W7we1kJ3Fq3N4HH0tBpa9OZhoUz4RjVUZZ4Ri-otnzE2lbxuk2guTarrBsLG6W7ScH9OlH5cBIoAd9sBVj3msOk2yotHDNuQ/s320/Balance.jpg" title="Balance in tension" width="320" /></a></div>
I should learn to embrace the tension. In the tension, we find balance. The tension keeps me (and you) from flopping to one extreme and ignoring the other. It keeps me from failing to understand that God is sovereign AND my actions matter in this life. Embracing tension keeps me balanced knowing that often the truth is BOTH/AND. It is not EITHER/OR.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4TprYauPqNe6TGlMUguUXH1L5wb2LaHLEVuuAgc8gIR4d0VODek4BzzbW3CKm_GIx7VuOmmX9lbFpZtIKrVw8MnhxXp5oeCOpeiDA1AdHIRo_REt0lKo9yZmOjxvj6eNKkLAM3gCMpU/s1600/Unified+Direction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>
It is not service OR evangelism. It's both.<br />
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It is not God is sovereign OR humanity is responsible for our actions. It's both.<br />
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It is not God is my provider OR I have to work sensibly and responsibly to earn a living for my family. It's both.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4TprYauPqNe6TGlMUguUXH1L5wb2LaHLEVuuAgc8gIR4d0VODek4BzzbW3CKm_GIx7VuOmmX9lbFpZtIKrVw8MnhxXp5oeCOpeiDA1AdHIRo_REt0lKo9yZmOjxvj6eNKkLAM3gCMpU/s1600/Unified+Direction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; clear: right; color: #0066cc; float: right; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 16px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img alt="Unified Direction" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4TprYauPqNe6TGlMUguUXH1L5wb2LaHLEVuuAgc8gIR4d0VODek4BzzbW3CKm_GIx7VuOmmX9lbFpZtIKrVw8MnhxXp5oeCOpeiDA1AdHIRo_REt0lKo9yZmOjxvj6eNKkLAM3gCMpU/s400/Unified+Direction.jpg" title="Unity" width="400" /></a>Learn to embrace theological tension. It will keep you walking in the will of God. It will correct you when you stray to one extreme or the other. It will help you to understand your responsibility as a follower of Christ. It will help you to rest and trust in God's sovereignty.<br />
<br />
It will make you a stronger follower of Christ. It will make us a more unified people.<br />
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<h4>
Related Content</h4>
<div>
If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy this book from the author:<i> <a href="https://amzn.to/33Ev3Ia" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Every Word: Read Your Bible in 90 Days</a>.</i> Click the link to get it from Amazon.</div>
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0832BRHZR&asins=B0832BRHZR&linkId=14a55d3c1dd4dc607b0027b8edbd70ca&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br />Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-68232049714740916932018-12-18T16:11:00.000-05:002018-12-18T16:11:37.154-05:00Christ Died For Our Sins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2mxGZ8k_CMB0X34H-__4zWI3xUutHkFEOFTWOfYXJsXrYTKoT_qyZtaYtKKTRb0Yqx2F5tvi7lNkZOYNKfL8RmZfxvTF8gjqOb6CmL9d5LUCG8Wj5WdmUA8fCDFQp2diLGoJR0TDUBs/s1600/Crown+of+thorns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Crown of Thorns" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2mxGZ8k_CMB0X34H-__4zWI3xUutHkFEOFTWOfYXJsXrYTKoT_qyZtaYtKKTRb0Yqx2F5tvi7lNkZOYNKfL8RmZfxvTF8gjqOb6CmL9d5LUCG8Wj5WdmUA8fCDFQp2diLGoJR0TDUBs/s640/Crown+of+thorns.jpg" title="Crown of Thorns" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><i>For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures<br />
</i>(1 Corinthians 15:3)</h2><br />
The truth of the gospel includes this important phrase: <b>Christ died for our sins</b>.<br />
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You've probably heard it before. Many times.<br />
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Sometimes familiarity leads to a diminished sense of importance. The more you hear about something the more ordinary it may seem. Common. Ho-hum. Boring.<br />
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But this truth is anything but common.<br />
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Another difficulty arises with this truth. Beyond being common. It may happen in your ears without you even realizing it.<br />
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When the truth is declared that Christ died for our sins, you may think you hear the truth. But what you really hear is a diminished version. A partial truth.<br />
<br />
Instead of hearing that Christ died for our sins you may hear a slightly different version of this truth. You might hear this: Jesus died for your sins.<br />
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Do you see the difference? You should.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTO1jEFObQ5nF5c9jlJKkN6NaUecUjctinV7WsMASCPCgbm8KWQnGVHLN9zlLZuQuDvYjSqc7mcyVFtUtvXuibPcAF2QY85VETH1pU7P8iTfG2_ToWpnXzXfK3IE_HlXP2nWEe91BhBB4/s1600/Compare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTO1jEFObQ5nF5c9jlJKkN6NaUecUjctinV7WsMASCPCgbm8KWQnGVHLN9zlLZuQuDvYjSqc7mcyVFtUtvXuibPcAF2QY85VETH1pU7P8iTfG2_ToWpnXzXfK3IE_HlXP2nWEe91BhBB4/s1600/Compare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTO1jEFObQ5nF5c9jlJKkN6NaUecUjctinV7WsMASCPCgbm8KWQnGVHLN9zlLZuQuDvYjSqc7mcyVFtUtvXuibPcAF2QY85VETH1pU7P8iTfG2_ToWpnXzXfK3IE_HlXP2nWEe91BhBB4/s1600/Compare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Compare" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTO1jEFObQ5nF5c9jlJKkN6NaUecUjctinV7WsMASCPCgbm8KWQnGVHLN9zlLZuQuDvYjSqc7mcyVFtUtvXuibPcAF2QY85VETH1pU7P8iTfG2_ToWpnXzXfK3IE_HlXP2nWEe91BhBB4/s400/Compare.jpg" title="Compare" width="400" /></a></div><br />
These statements are similar. Both may very well be true.<br />
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But they aren't the same.<br />
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Not even close.<br />
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Take a moment to really think about this. It's important. According to Paul, <b>it is of first importance</b>.<br />
<br />
In order to see the difference we need to take a moment to discuss sin. Often when I witness, I ask the person I am talking to what they think the greatest sin is. I get a lot of different answers.<br />
<br />
<i>Murder. Rape. Theft. Racism. Hatred.</i><br />
<br />
A lot of different answers. My follow up question usually gets the same answer. When I ask, "Do you know what Jesus said the greatest commandment was?" The answer is almost always, "<i>No</i>."<br />
<br />
Most people agree that the greatest sin would be violating the greatest commandment. However, most people don't know the greatest commandment. Therefore, they don't know the greatest sin.<br />
<blockquote>And He said to him, "'YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.' This is the great and foremost commandment.<br />
(Matthew 22:37-38)</blockquote>All. 100%.<br />
<br />
It's pretty easy to give 1% of your heart, soul, mind, <i><b>or</b></i> strength away to something lesser than God. When we do so, we are in violation of the greatest commandment of the living God.<br />
<br />
The God who spoke the sun into existence. Who raised up the mountains. Who establishes the boundaries for the seas. The God who gives us air to breathe and lungs to breathe it.<br />
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Since this is true, we should be able to admit that for our entire life we have been violating God's greatest commandment. We add to this serious violation countless other violations and transgressions.<br />
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My individual sins are more than I can calculate. More than the number of hairs on my head. More than the stars in the sky. More than the grains of sand on the seashore.<br />
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That's just me.<br />
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If I allow the individualistic winds of our age to influence me and I hear the gospel truth as Christ died for <b><i>my</i></b> sins, then I have reason to glory in my God. But not as much reason as if I hear the truth as it is actually stated.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9S_GwRpJJr8ED1RHLD3PnoybHFVWaqgdaNWtVBztw7C8wEWYmwxmgu69SYYkV4iBPiS_txNBtTiG-F4ixm8du9BqZj99c8DnCYDCCzMBoxBxzd0GOEdSYFDmvwp1BFRj8YRvY5Q_KuU/s1600/Gospel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Gospel of Jesus Christ" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9S_GwRpJJr8ED1RHLD3PnoybHFVWaqgdaNWtVBztw7C8wEWYmwxmgu69SYYkV4iBPiS_txNBtTiG-F4ixm8du9BqZj99c8DnCYDCCzMBoxBxzd0GOEdSYFDmvwp1BFRj8YRvY5Q_KuU/s400/Gospel.jpg" title="Gospel of Jesus Christ" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: right;"></div>The actual statement is that Christ died for our sins. All of ours. The sins of the whole church.<br />
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Every person who has ever been redeemed. Every person who will ever be redeemed.<br />
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Christ has died for all of our sins.<br />
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Spectacular. Christ dying for <i>our</i> is infinitely greater than Christ dying for <i>my</i> sins.<br />
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In Revelation, when we get a glimpse of the great multitude from every tribe, tongue, nation, and people we are told that the group is so large no one could count it.<br />
<blockquote>After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."<br />
(Revelation 7:9-10)</blockquote><br />
Do you see the difference in the weight of the statement that Christ died for your sins and the truth that Christ died for our sins?<br />
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When I think that Christ died for <i>me</i>, it gives me reason to praise Him. The weight of the true glory that Christ deserves is found in the larger statement that Christ died for <i>our</i> sins.<br />
<br />
This truth results in even those who are not redeemed and for beings for whom Christ did not die praising Him!<br />
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In Revelation 4, the Apostle John sees a glorious vision of the Father being praised in heaven. In the next chapter, the praise and honor changes focus. It is offered to the Lamb of God. It is offered to Him because of His great worth. The Lamb of God is the only one who could die for our sins.<br />
<blockquote>And they sang a new song, saying, "Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; <u>for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation</u>. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth."<br />
(Revelation 5:9-10)</blockquote><br />
This praise doesn't just come from the four living creatures. It results in the holy angels and the elders also praising Him (Revelation 5:11-12). But this isn't enough praise.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnEx39ThHk2J7hBfiTh_qErUagWpkvwRFX8TmnLvuHls3AqtBPdupxmftrsEuQwckpUKKx2c6daGCRsMeNDaE9tbQDbHAhT2oiRAa19A8cEsJKfUhJetKGCdpz8mPOCEOFy02hnJel-Wo/s1600/lamb+of+God.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Lamb of God" border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnEx39ThHk2J7hBfiTh_qErUagWpkvwRFX8TmnLvuHls3AqtBPdupxmftrsEuQwckpUKKx2c6daGCRsMeNDaE9tbQDbHAhT2oiRAa19A8cEsJKfUhJetKGCdpz8mPOCEOFy02hnJel-Wo/s400/lamb+of+God.jpg" title="Lamb of God" width="400" /></a></div>Not for Jesus. Not for the Lamb of God who was slain and who lives forevermore.<br />
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Every created thing gets in on the praise.<br />
<blockquote>And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."<br />
(Revelation 5:13)</blockquote><br />
Every created thing. In heaven and on earth. And under the earth. And on the sea. Everything in them. Can't help themselves from declaring blessing, honor, glory, and dominion belong to the Father and to the Lamb.<br />
<br />
All because Christ died for <i>our</i> sins.<br />
<br />
It's a big deal.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-22972093978316367512018-12-16T11:30:00.000-05:002018-12-16T14:31:41.313-05:00Winning the War, Losing the Home Front<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnE_s-gNAukLjIBAOPOMX4jiFOxWaQKSTsbtUm8A4mvpGVDzOz7PkNsABUT-53Lk117xOX5voTJV5wSf8BaiU75Ui7ETTy71yXRe7wGf8dxg6J_D8fVtnd9ct4KSvRJAc08QX53Y8r9-c/s1600/Winning+Failure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Failing and Winning" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnE_s-gNAukLjIBAOPOMX4jiFOxWaQKSTsbtUm8A4mvpGVDzOz7PkNsABUT-53Lk117xOX5voTJV5wSf8BaiU75Ui7ETTy71yXRe7wGf8dxg6J_D8fVtnd9ct4KSvRJAc08QX53Y8r9-c/s640/Winning+Failure.jpg" title="Winning and Failing" width="640" /></a></div>
<h2>
Let me introduce you to my friend. We’ll call him Al.</h2>
Al’s a great guy. The type of person who is naturally good at just about everything.<br />
<br />
Handsome. Athletic. Great at his job.<br />
<br />
He brings positivity, excitement, and excellence to everything he does. He even professes to be a Christian. By all appearances he takes his faith seriously. He goes to church. Participates regularly in a Bible study at work. He even took a leadership position at his local church. On the surface, Al is a successful guy. He has his stuff together. But that’s only part of the story.<br />
<br />
This morning, as I was walking away from Al's desk I dropped a casual compliment.<br />
<br />
<i>"Good luck, Al. I know you'll make this project better. Everything is better when you've worked on it."</i><br />
<br />
His response stopped me dead in my tracks.<br />
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<i>"I wish that were true with my kids. They just seem to be getting worse."</i> <br />
<br />
I only know a little of Al’s family story. What I do know has me concerned. I know he’s been struggling with his teenage daughter’s rebellious desire to have a homosexual relationship. I know that he and his new wife are both healing from recent divorces. I know that since their marriage a year ago they have been struggling to integrate two different households full of teenagers. And I know that while he may be winning out in the world, he’s losing at home.<br />
<br />
Al's not alone. There are fathers and mothers all across the country who are steadily losing their families and can’t figure out how to turn the tides. Of course, the world has plenty of answers. There’s plenty of worldly wisdom Al can, and does, turn to for advice.<br />
<br />
Instead of worldly wisdom, I want to share with you some of the biblical reasons I think Al (and many others) may be losing at home.<br />
<blockquote>
My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge.<br />
(Hosea 4:6)</blockquote>
I know that Al knows the gospel. Yet, he has gone out of his way to make sure his children are ignorant of it. Months ago, while telling me about his daughter's homosexual desires, I made it clear to him that she needed a biblical understanding of sin. She needed to be lovingly confronted with the truth of her rebellion against God. She must be shown her need to repent and walk according to God’s law. She needs to seek the righteousness of God offered through the redeeming work of Christ on the cross.<br />
<br />
He went home that day but never shared these truths with her. So, to this day his daughter remains in her sin. Ignorant of her enmity with God. Ignorant of the truth that if she were to die today, she would face the judgment of a holy, righteous, and perfect God. She is under a curse of destruction for her lack of knowledge.<br />
<blockquote>
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord you God is with you wherever you go.<br />
(Joshua 1:9)</blockquote>
Now Al is taking his daughter to a therapist. They hope they can turn this situation around. The therapist asked why he is so strongly against his daughter’s desires. He explained the negative health, psychological, and societal results of such a lifestyle. But, at the end of the day, he couldn't work up the courage to boldly declare the truth of God. He couldn't (or wouldn't) tell his daughter the truth. And he couldn't (or wouldn't) tell the therapist. He missed an opportunity to tell the truth that could possibly save this person’s soul.<br />
<blockquote>
He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.<br />
(Matthew 10:37)</blockquote>
I asked Al why he hasn't confronted his daughter with her sin. His response was that he didn't want to risk burning any bridges between them. His concern for her feelings overpowered his concern for her soul. His desire to maintain a relationship with her was more important than her reconciliation with God.<br />
<br />
Al attends the weekly Bible study I lead at work. He has for about 6 months. I know he’s heard the gospel. Many times. We have traveled on business together. Spent hours discussing the things of God. He is a man who professes a faith in God. A man who appears to be bearing the fruit of repentance in his own life. But, perhaps Al isn’t saved. That’s a very real and sad possibility.<br />
<br />
Al’s story is sad. Let's not fool ourselves; there are many people in our churches just like him. Men and women whose families are ignorant of the gospel. Who are too scared to do anything about it. And who are possibly unsaved themselves. These are people who may (or may not) be winning their war in the world but at the same time abandoning the war at home.<br />
<br />
I want to give you three ways we can help someone like Al.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Pray</b><br />
<blockquote>
First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings be made on behalf of all men.<br />
(1 Timothy 2:1)</blockquote>
Who stands in more need of prayer than those who stand outside the covenantal promises of God? Only the Holy Spirit has the power to bring the regenerating power of God into the hearts of lost people. So, this is the first and most important thing that I can do for Al. I can pray for him.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Preach</b><br />
<blockquote>
How will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?<br />
(Romans 10:14)</blockquote>
I don’t know the elders at Al’s church. I don’t know if there is anyone there willing to speak lovingly and boldly into his family. Maybe there are. But maybe not.<br />
<br />
If I have a real desire to see Al and his family saved, I have the real responsibility to communicate the gospel to them. God has placed Al in my life. Maybe for this very reason.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Pursue</b><br />
<blockquote>
You shall love your neighbor as yourself.<br />
(Matthew 22:39)</blockquote>
Jesus taught that the second greatest commandment was to love your neighbor as yourself.<br />
<br />
How hard would you want someone to work on your behalf if you were struggling, hurting, lost, and they had the answer?<br />
<br />
I know that I’m not going to let my friend and his family go down without a fight. Their souls are too valuable for me to give only half my effort. I don’t believe I can drag them into faith and repentance. I don’t think God will hold me responsible if they don’t believe. But I do believe that God has entrusted me with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The great message that sinner can find reconciliation with God through the Savior’s work on the cross. Al is losing at home. But I’m willing to help fight for him!<br />
<br />
Are you willing to fight for the “Al’s” in your life? Will you pray for them? Lovingly preach to them? And pursue them? All to the glory of God?G.Churchleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17047383482678591959noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-7718899266972985502018-12-15T14:45:00.005-05:002021-02-05T10:11:39.645-05:00Hallowed Be Thy Name<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltkRXMjYpBi5aCezn3tOBXdVOEGDvhnSW1x5lGE_cgpT73qC5NpVVLdfIuweQW5cTKGodhQCgeOs8hTmxMIDb99CZhG__gGxLMuDMJR19Q2C-ai83VlbA3bzfvkrgBtgbX1flj8mnWEo/s1600/Pray.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgltkRXMjYpBi5aCezn3tOBXdVOEGDvhnSW1x5lGE_cgpT73qC5NpVVLdfIuweQW5cTKGodhQCgeOs8hTmxMIDb99CZhG__gGxLMuDMJR19Q2C-ai83VlbA3bzfvkrgBtgbX1flj8mnWEo/s640/Pray.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<h2>
Growing up, I said the Our Father prayer a lot.<br />
<br />
<i>A lot.</i> Multiple times a day.</h2>
It was part of my religious tradition. Most of the time, I mumbled it as quickly as I could.<br />
<br />
For what it's worth, my Dad tried to help me understand that mumbling the prayer without understanding what it really meant wasn't the goal. He wanted me to understand it. He wanted me to mean it.<br />
<br />
I remember sitting with him in the car one afternoon while we went through every phrase. He did his best to explain to me what the terms meant. Why we would say these things. Why it mattered.<br />
<br />
It didn't take.<br />
<br />
Although I became better equipped to describe the meaning of the phrases, I still mumbled them as fast as I could so I could move on to the next part of my day.<br />
<br />
Fast forward many years. After being born-again by the grace of God I started to read my Bible. <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2013/10/the-surpassing-value-of-knowing-christ.html">I desired to know God</a> and His Word. I remember when I stumbled upon Jesus teaching the disciples to pray the Lord's prayer in Matthew 6. I was both excited and embarrassed.<br />
<br />
Excited to find that this prayer I had prayed so many times was worthwhile. It was taught by Jesus Himself.<br />
<br />
Embarrassed because I fit the description of those Jesus described immediately prior to giving His instruction.<br />
<blockquote>
And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words.<br />
(Matthew 6:7)</blockquote>
<br />
Whoopsie daisies.<br />
<br />
I had certainly wasted a lot of words. Meaninglessly repeating things that I should have meant.<br />
<br />
After repenting (again) for my foolishness, I sought to truly understand the meaning behind the words Jesus was teaching.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5OvhcRy-Fhjvy8gmGgmhrIE0JZ-94AykfpQvvQYt0svOEf7MoA0aDKp1ckRk0cdFAyTQHO3AIyKn2LvTyqtYOze__OqxcjC8rhpHuDwW8s-w9GPGcASRsEoSsAQfiDvP6FaWQyA0XLk/s1600/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5OvhcRy-Fhjvy8gmGgmhrIE0JZ-94AykfpQvvQYt0svOEf7MoA0aDKp1ckRk0cdFAyTQHO3AIyKn2LvTyqtYOze__OqxcjC8rhpHuDwW8s-w9GPGcASRsEoSsAQfiDvP6FaWQyA0XLk/s400/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
My heavenly Father doesn't need me to tell Him what I need. He knows before I ask (Matthew 6:8). So instead of telling Him what I need, I should pray according to the themes Christ presents.<br />
<br />
Even with this new perspective, it is easy to misunderstand the first part.<br />
<blockquote>
Our Father who is in heaven,<br />
Hallowed be Your name.<br />
(Matthew 6:9)</blockquote>
<br />
What does "hallowed be Your name" mean, anyway?<br />
<br />
I recall hearing it taught that this is the declarative part of the prayer. When we come to God, we first declare His goodness and attributes. So, we come to Him as our Father in heaven and declare that His name is holy!<br />
<br />
While that is certainly true - <a href="https://howellbible.org/videos/" rel="nofollow">God is holy</a> - that's not what this means.<br />
<br />
The original Greek for this verse makes it clear that this is not a declarative sentence of fact. This phrase is the beginning of the requests. It is not declaring who God is. It is asking God to act. To do something.<br />
<br />
Some modern translations make it a little clearer. For example, the NET captures the sense:<br />
<blockquote>
So pray this way: Our Father in heaven, may your name be honored<br />
(Matthew 6:9, NET)</blockquote>
<br />
May your name be honored.<br />
<br />
Let your name be revered as holy.<br />
<br />
What Jesus is teaching is that the first priority of the prayers of God's people should be that His plan of redemption would be a success. That God's eternal purpose in Christ Jesus to reconcile a people to Himself from every tribe, tongue, and nation would be accomplished. That as people turn to Christ and are saved, as they are transferred out of darkness and into the Light, they would turn from their rebellion against God and would rightly honor and praise Him as the Lord of all the earth.<br />
<br />
<i>May your name be honored. Let your name be revered as holy in all the earth.</i><br />
<br />
The request is that God will do as He has promised. The petition is that God will save for His name's sake. That as He redeems through His Son, the redeemed would worship Him in all the earth. God is holy. That's a fact. So we should pray that people would turn to Him and acknowledge it. To do so, people need grace. They need to respond to the gospel of Jesus Christ.<br />
<br />
The church exists for the praise of God's glorious grace. The redeemed honor and praise His name because our eyes have been opened to His glory.<br />
<br />
When we pray, we are to pray to our Father in heaven. We are to pray that His name would be worshipped and revered in all the earth. We are praying that He will build Christ's church.<br />
<br />
We pray this and He hears us. Because we pray according to His will.<br />
<br />
Have you prayed that Your Father's name would be hallowed today?<br />
<br />
This is worth repeating in a meaningful way. Until He returns or gathers us home.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Related Content</h4>
<div>
If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy this book from the author:<i> <a href="https://amzn.to/2vFSvrU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Faithful in Prayer: Seven Biblical Priorities in Prayer</a>.</i> Click the link to get it from Amazon.</div>
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Os1oOQUpyvE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<div><br /></div><div>
</div><div><br /></div><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uQcv_1BEZtU" width="560"></iframe></div>Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-90966701703512836842018-12-05T13:00:00.000-05:002018-12-05T13:00:39.404-05:00Five Truths For The Ministry of Sowing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalLjhQiJ1JzbH_eseDNCT4AsB2G746sQBlIJ_8XMP6wHkJqY8yVglOYqPqpgQB8Z1h8KateWI8-8nJZdW_ZWc6CZCDbjJ1Cmw13Q-FIePuHfH4VIKXBnTfxMuO48h0gC_AqxYJjvO21I/s1600/hear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="He who has ears to hear, let him hear." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgalLjhQiJ1JzbH_eseDNCT4AsB2G746sQBlIJ_8XMP6wHkJqY8yVglOYqPqpgQB8Z1h8KateWI8-8nJZdW_ZWc6CZCDbjJ1Cmw13Q-FIePuHfH4VIKXBnTfxMuO48h0gC_AqxYJjvO21I/s400/hear.jpg" title="He who has ears to hear, let him hear." width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
"He who has ears to hear, let him hear." (Mark 4:9)</h2>
I pay a lot of attention to how the gospel is preached. I listen carefully to <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2016/08/preaching-jesus-as-the-christ.html">invitations to accept Christ</a>. I compare the things I hear to Scripture. I compare them to how Jesus, the Apostles, and other Christians in the New Testament preached.<br />
<br />
Much of what I hear today doesn't sound like what I read.<br />
<br />
My desire is to make my own proclamation and gospel testimony sound <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2018/01/lift-up-son-part-1.html">more like the example of Christ</a>. More <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2016/07/the-promised-king.html">like the Apostles</a>. Less like a salesman.<br />
<br />
How about you?<br />
<br />
If we want to understand the ministry of sowing, we can find no better teacher than Jesus. This is His teaching:<br />
<br />
<b><i>"Listen to this! Behold, the sower went out to sow; as he was sowing, some seed fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate it up. Other seed fell on the rocky ground where it did not have much soil; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of soil. And after the sun had risen, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. Other seed fell among the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. Other seeds fell into the good soil, and as they grew up and increased, they yielded a crop and produced thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold." And He was saying, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."</i> (Mark 4:3-9)</b><br />
<br />
Those who heard Jesus teach this parable were confused. Fortunately for us, Christ's explanation of this parable was given to His disciples and recorded in the Scriptures.<br />
<br />
Hopefully we have ears to hear. Jesus tells us five important truths.<br />
<br />
<h2>
1. The Seed is the Word.</h2>
Jesus said, "The sower sows the word" (Mark 4:14). This is no insignificant point.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2onF3T6U62jajmDYfKIvce7EThz6bdWpL2qnaFb4vucvZtW47g7ohToD5aB2jGgHclr4yuV8mLnnDhehwmgwWQeYu4AzcjI7sjI57GSfUUJ5pcOZfBPeoftRY0N5FGivCnSHaA-5sz4/s1600/Sowing+Seed+by+Hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Sowing the Seed of the Word" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1245" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2onF3T6U62jajmDYfKIvce7EThz6bdWpL2qnaFb4vucvZtW47g7ohToD5aB2jGgHclr4yuV8mLnnDhehwmgwWQeYu4AzcjI7sjI57GSfUUJ5pcOZfBPeoftRY0N5FGivCnSHaA-5sz4/s400/Sowing+Seed+by+Hand.jpg" title="Sowing Seed" width="311" /></a></div>
The flavor of Jesus' teaching has already been described in Mark's Gospel.<br />
<blockquote>
Now after John had been taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."<br />
(Mark 1:14-15)</blockquote>
Now is the time. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent. Believe <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/p/the-gospel_23.html">the gospel</a>.<br />
<br />
If we want to be faithful in the ministry of sowing, we must sow the word. Not our word. God's word.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2018/11/servants-stewards.html">This requires that we be diligent and faithful to study the Scriptures</a> for ourselves. We don't want to be sowing <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2014/12/jesus-loves-you.html">the words of men</a>.<br />
<br />
If you will take up your Bibles and read you will see that the words Christ and the Apostles preached sound very different than the words of many of our famous pastors and teachers today.<br />
<br />
<b>Don't sow the words of men. Sow the word of God.</b><br />
<br />
<h2>
2. Satan Steals Seed.</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNVa3-WhsElNPoSe4FfsXjlJ6P22eAojaw_AMZ8UIoLv-JM9Hfh4Fhdi6cFgLPDaFnZ9XhjvrLGZNKM-U8t-Z7fqreYZ4gq1pPCAxDq8AUUgrJSLEDYXmSAoA8ySnIBKzRYdaTHDp8iU/s1600/Anti-Theft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Pray against Satan stealing the seed" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNVa3-WhsElNPoSe4FfsXjlJ6P22eAojaw_AMZ8UIoLv-JM9Hfh4Fhdi6cFgLPDaFnZ9XhjvrLGZNKM-U8t-Z7fqreYZ4gq1pPCAxDq8AUUgrJSLEDYXmSAoA8ySnIBKzRYdaTHDp8iU/s400/Anti-Theft.jpg" title="Satan is a thief" width="400" /></a></div>
Our battle is not against flesh and blood. It is a spiritual battle. We have an invisible enemy who seeks to steal the seed that is sown.<br />
<br />
In the parable, this is the case for the seed that falls beside the rode and is eaten by birds. <b><i>When they hear, immediately Satan comes and takes away the word which has been sown in them</i> (Mark 4:15b).</b><br />
<br />
Understanding that Jesus teaches us the truth, <b>if we walk by faith we will be wise to pray against this thieving enemy.</b> To pray that God will rebuke Satan and not allow him to come and steal the seed that is sown.<br />
<br />
<h2>
3. Persecution Causes Some To Fall Away.</h2>
When the word is sown some receive it with joy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlMYhV9hK89Vrdy08fM8MjkOJ2jLkD-59Vdf-XRFqxagPcS3uHcJoSy5_7lWsI4J90Z-7gWkQvGnu6kYvMZ0dns9DIamz4LYqOFZ5LvG1u4WbjkWOU3-6OiMH0eklSClJve2HUFibjD4/s1600/Stumbling+Block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Persecution is a cause for stumbling" border="0" data-original-height="1340" data-original-width="1600" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrlMYhV9hK89Vrdy08fM8MjkOJ2jLkD-59Vdf-XRFqxagPcS3uHcJoSy5_7lWsI4J90Z-7gWkQvGnu6kYvMZ0dns9DIamz4LYqOFZ5LvG1u4WbjkWOU3-6OiMH0eklSClJve2HUFibjD4/s400/Stumbling+Block.jpg" title="Persecution is a cause for stumbling" width="400" /></a></div>
A modern practice is to tell all who respond initially with joy - perhaps with every eye closed and every head bowed - that they are Christians now! They have passed from death to life! They are bound for heaven! Don't let anyone deceive them that they are now children of God!<br />
<br />
But Christ warns against such foolish declarations. Instead, Christ tells us the plain truth that some who receive the word with joy initially will fall away. They will not endure once persecution or affliction arise.<br />
<br />
<b><i>In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.</i> (Mark 4:16-17)</b><br />
<br />
Notice that the persecution and affliction arise <i>because of the word.</i> Those who turn to Christ are given <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/11/two-main-tasks-in-church.html">a role as ambassadors</a> in His kingdom. We are called to proclaim His word. For His glory. To every creature. And to the ends of the earth.<br />
<br />
As we proclaim the Word and live godly in Christ Jesus we will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). We would be better suited to warn our hearers of the danger of falling away when persecution and affliction arises than assuring them that their initial joy is assurance of everlasting life. It isn't. Not according to Christ. To tell them otherwise, is to build on the authority of men.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>"An appalling and horrible thing<br />
Has happened in the land:<br />
The prophets prophesy falsely,<br />
And the priests rule on their own authority;<br />
And my people love it so!<br />
But what will you do at the end of it?"</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>(Jeremiah 5:30-31)</b></div>
<br />
<b>This modern practice of assuring all who initially respond with joy that they are guaranteed heaven is directly contrary to Christ's own teaching.</b> We should rejoice when someone responds with joy. But we should also tell them the truth that they must endure until the end. This will require their enduring through persecution and affliction if they truly put Jesus' teachings into practice and truly testify to His word.<br />
<br />
<h2>
4. Choked Out By Ungodly Pursuits.</h2>
Not everyone who falls away from Christ does so because of affliction. Persecution doesn't kill every profession of faith. Another category of danger exists. Sometimes comfort and ease bring death for the seed.<br />
<br />
<b><i>And others are the ones on whom seed was sown among the thorns; these are the ones who have heard the word, but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.</i> (Mark 4:18-19)</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygmVXxBSkHeXCsHvw-p9VUTxgvWI32UPjfleBvGja-rUbCz1TRN2uvCj1GF1Hc2Kqjvkj8xCXCVIoBPnEwChfJMUgLGO0zvU1lwZa8Zh_5QsMeTdZBVSu6JrzWIPiyWend6yDZEgiekU/s1600/Thorns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Thorns can choke the word" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygmVXxBSkHeXCsHvw-p9VUTxgvWI32UPjfleBvGja-rUbCz1TRN2uvCj1GF1Hc2Kqjvkj8xCXCVIoBPnEwChfJMUgLGO0zvU1lwZa8Zh_5QsMeTdZBVSu6JrzWIPiyWend6yDZEgiekU/s400/Thorns.jpg" title="Thorns can choke out the word" width="400" /></a></div>
Thorns can ruin someone who professes faith in Christ but pursues the wrong things.<br />
<br />
Worries of the world. Deceitfulness of riches. Desire for other things.<br />
<br />
When these worldly pursuits become the focus, the word is choked out.<br />
<br />
Much of what passes for Christianity today is simply worldliness. <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2018/11/bypassing-buffet.html">Pursuits of worldly things</a> instead of pursuing the glory of our God. We have been told that this is the American dream. It is just thorns, waiting to choke out the word of God.<br />
<br />
Don't be deceived. Worldliness is deadly.<br />
<br />
James put it this way:<br />
<blockquote>
You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.<br />
(James 4:4)</blockquote>
Pursuing worldliness chokes out the word. It makes you an enemy of God. Paul agreed:<br />
<blockquote>
For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things.<br />
(Philippians 3:18-19)</blockquote>
<b>What is your mind set on? What is your pursuit? The answer to this question is more important than if you think you really meant it when you repeated a prayer after someone.</b><br />
<br />
<h2>
5. Bear Fruit.</h2>
Only one category of people is described as "good soil." It's those who hear the word. Who accept it. Who bear fruit.<br />
<blockquote>
And those are the ones on whom seed was sown on the good soil; and they hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.<br />
(Mark 4:20)</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnOOF4cmI73Bk4xxOJY1Zp3VM9ELyatdz4ynHJoIZV3uzPgzD364vi44FekGwwamVdX5_BO-m31CC3B0K7mI7F92sMN_RHEWQUMUyyoiqYKHy55Oc1yZ40cCieHmm7whgzS3TUYOP0rWE/s1600/New+life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Walk in newness of Life" border="0" data-original-height="1158" data-original-width="1600" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnOOF4cmI73Bk4xxOJY1Zp3VM9ELyatdz4ynHJoIZV3uzPgzD364vi44FekGwwamVdX5_BO-m31CC3B0K7mI7F92sMN_RHEWQUMUyyoiqYKHy55Oc1yZ40cCieHmm7whgzS3TUYOP0rWE/s400/New+life.jpg" title="New Life" width="400" /></a></div>
If we desire to be faithful in our sowing, we must encourage people to hear. To accept. To <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/05/christianity-isnt-moralism.html">bear fruit</a>. To endure until the end. To pursue the right things.<br />
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Do you have ears to hear?<br />
<br />
Jesus said, "Take care what you listen to" (Mark 4:24).Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-65913969894752711212018-11-15T14:17:00.000-05:002018-11-23T23:03:29.617-05:00Servants & Stewards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiYsSRGWtSQAMMaILQRxmx5sMZDZDVViMkDpiCJU4cy0m-TIs_c_4VPh6U-gfRW98-SysysOoa42cHh5K5xPsBMzr4Xcky_1zoesyFDFIxmiL_2GfIKliPPD64skdwv7LqChyphenhyphenpHO5QAZQ/s1600/paul+stained+glass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Stained-Glass of the Apostle Paul" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiYsSRGWtSQAMMaILQRxmx5sMZDZDVViMkDpiCJU4cy0m-TIs_c_4VPh6U-gfRW98-SysysOoa42cHh5K5xPsBMzr4Xcky_1zoesyFDFIxmiL_2GfIKliPPD64skdwv7LqChyphenhyphenpHO5QAZQ/s640/paul+stained+glass.jpg" title="Apostle Paul" width="640" /></a></div>
<h2>
Some Christians look at the men and women recorded in the Bible as "super saints." People whose images are rightly captured on stained-glass windows. Those whose sacrificial service to the King of kings is beyond the grasp of normal, regular, every day Christians.</h2>
But this is not how the Apostle Paul viewed himself. Paul urged Christians in Corinth to be imitators of him. Twice (1 Corinthians 4:16, 11:1). He said similar things to Christians in his other letters. See, for example, Ephesians 5:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:6, 2:14; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-9; Hebrews 6:12, 13:7; and 3 John 1:11. Paul said this instruction of imitating him and his conduct is something he teaches everywhere he goes:<br />
<blockquote>
<u>Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me</u>. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and <u>he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church</u>. (1 Corinthians 4:16-17)</blockquote>
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Paul traveled. He preached the Gospel. He established local churches. He taught everywhere, in every church, what it means to follow Christ. He urged these disciples to imitate his own ways in Christ. <b>To view Paul's life as one which is out of reach for the common Christian is completely <i>contrary</i> to the teaching of the Apostle himself.</b><br />
<br />
What's worse, this attitude on behalf of the "normal Christian" is often veiled in modesty. But it has its roots in a spirit of pride. It falsely views the Christian walk as something <i>we do</i>. This is contrary to the correct understanding that it is something that <i>God</i> has done and will continue to do (Galatians 3:1-3).<br />
<br />
<b>When we say that our walk cannot be like Paul's, we are not being modest. We aren't being humble. Instead, we are insulting the grace of God. Perhaps not on purpose. But it's still an insult. We are insisting that God is <u>not</u> able to do in us what He has done in our brothers and sisters before us.</b> Our problem is not an <i>inability</i> to be like Paul and these "super saints." Really, the problem is an unwillingness to die to self that Christ might live through us.<br />
<br />
Paul's letter to the Christians in Corinth expressed his heart and method for dying to self. Paul allowed the grace of God and Christ in him to act powerfully for the advance of the glory of God. Paul viewed himself, not as a "super saint," but as <b>a servant</b> and as <b>a steward</b>.<br />
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<b><i>Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.</i> (1 Corinthians 4:1)</b><br />
<br />
Everyone had an opinion of Paul. Some liked what he was doing. Others did not. But Paul was unconcerned about how others viewed him. The judgment of men didn't matter. He instructed Christians not to be deceived about themselves, either. To our own Master we stand and fall. Therefore, Christ's opinion of us is the only one that matters.<br />
<br />
Are you concerned with the opinions of others? Or are you consumed with pleasing the God who loved you and redeemed you with the precious blood of Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Revelation 5:9)?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2013/03/am-i-really-christian.html">If you are a Christian</a>, you must understand that you are no longer your own. You have been purchased at a price with the precious blood of Christ for God and His glory. As the redeemed, you are called to imitate Paul's ways in Christ. You, too, should identify yourself as a servant of Christ. As a steward of the mysteries of God.<br />
<blockquote>
In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy. (1 Corinthians 4:2)</blockquote>
The concept of being a servant and a steward is not common in our culture. Yet, the Scriptures have been delivered to us from the living God who reigns as a righteous King and whose kingdom extends over all the kingdoms of the earth (Psalm 103:19). God has delivered the faith to His saints once and for all (Jude 1:3). We are supposed to protect and care for this revealed faith. This revelation from the living God and Creator of all things is what we are to steward for the praise and glory of His name.<br />
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Unfortunately, many who profess Christ are negligent in their responsibility. Some are ignorant of the content of the Scriptures. They are more concerned with other matters (1 John 2:15-17). As a result, we often fail to faithfully discharge our duty as servants and stewards.<br />
<br />
I don't make this charge lightly. I'll never forget the first time I stood up to preach from the prophet Nahum. After the sermon, I was approached by a brother in Christ who has faithfully attended church nearly every Sunday for about 30 years. He chuckled and said, "When you said open your Bibles to Nahum, I thought you were kidding. I didn't even know that was a book in the Bible!"<br />
<br />
Whoa.<br />
<br />
As I've witnessed the gospel of Christ to thousands and thousands of people over the past decade, I have met many people from different places, who identify as different flavors of Christian (Baptist, Non-denominational, Presbyterian, etc.), yet who likewise have no real idea of the basic content of the Scriptures. This is by their own admission.<br />
<br />
It's alarming.<br />
<br />
Our God is not a wishy-washy God. He has taken great care to reveal Himself and His plan through the Scriptures and through His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). <b>Our task as servants and stewards is to know and understand this revelation from God so that we may walk according to His good will and pleasure for His glory.</b> It is <u>not</u> our task to pick and choose which portions of Scripture to obey and emphasize and to ignore the rest. It is also not our task to go beyond what is written.<br />
<i><b><br />
Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other. For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? (1 Corinthians 4:6-7)</b></i><br />
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As followers of Christ, we serve the same Master. One body. One Spirit. One Lord. One faith. One baptism. One God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. Our allegiance is not to our denomination. It's not to our culture. It's not to our political parties, hobbies, or pet doctrines. It is to Christ. As such, we who have been purchased by the blood of Christ are not enemies of each other. We are brothers and sisters in the family of God! Yet, most of the fighting I hear between professing believers is speculation on theological implications that go well beyond that which is written.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAIIJTP8kAzUPIiuM6tCj21JjreMWCRPQ-kK5BzGZND8PNSLtD5qp4x6qEzRPcxF1tAUlyBXzyRmD2TFX_4PgVpzxd_Q322eu_lTEUA4_gI2KkOvO6uwuri8C3MccUY1jerzFUkbjfWU/s1600/Study+your+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Know and Study the Scriptures" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAIIJTP8kAzUPIiuM6tCj21JjreMWCRPQ-kK5BzGZND8PNSLtD5qp4x6qEzRPcxF1tAUlyBXzyRmD2TFX_4PgVpzxd_Q322eu_lTEUA4_gI2KkOvO6uwuri8C3MccUY1jerzFUkbjfWU/s400/Study+your+Bible.jpg" title="Know what is Written in Scripture" width="400" /></a></div>
Most people I meet don't even realize they are going beyond what is written. They are quoting their favorite teachers as if the writings and opinions of men are Scripture. They don't know they are going beyond what is written because they are not familiar enough with what is written to be truly discerning.<br />
<br />
Going beyond what is written happens all the time. Many Christians have no idea what <i>is</i> written. They haven't taken the time to diligently read and understand what <i>is</i> written by reading, reading, and reading their Bible some more.<br />
<br />
Have you dedicated yourself to this pursuit? How many times have you read through your Bible, cover to cover? More than 20? Less than 5?<br />
<br />
I've heard all the excuses:<br />
<br />
<i>I don't have time.<br />
<br />
I'm very busy.<br />
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You don't understand. With my job, I simply can't read my Bible every day.</i><br />
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When I hear these excuses I usually ask people how much time they spend surfing the Internet, checking social media, watching TV/movies/Netflix, or pursuing other hobbies. Most people spend hours (combined) on these other activities without any problem. But spending hours reading their Bible seems out of reach.<br />
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<b>It's not a lack of time. It's a lack of proper prioritization. I don't say this to discourage you or anyone else. I say it to encourage you to take your stewardship seriously as it ought to be taken.</b><br />
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What much of modern Christianity has forgotten (or, simply never been taught) is that if you are a Christian, your job is first and foremost <b>a servant of Christ and a steward of the mysteries of God.</b> Whatever other tasks and responsibilities God has given to you, you are to exercise in subordination to your primary calling as a servant and steward. Not the other way around!<br />
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<b><i>Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.</i> (Colossians 3:23-24)</b><br />
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I repeat: Our problem is not an <i>inability</i> to be like Paul and these "super saints." Really, it's an unwillingness to die to self that Christ might live through us like Paul did.<br />
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As Paul was writing to these believers in Corinth, he was addressing a bad strain of teaching that was influencing them and encouraging them to be comfortable. To look down upon his own sacrificial service of Jesus. Paul had no problem pointing out the error:<br />
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<b><i>For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.</i> (1 Corinthians 4:9-13)</b><br />
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In our present, North American context, it sure seems like Paul's description of the Corinthian state is much to be desired! These believers are prudent, strong, distinguished, and comfortable.<br />
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Yet, Paul does not commend them in this. Instead, he tells them to be like him and the other Apostles. He even points out that their current view of themselves could be considered shameful.<br />
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<b><i>I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me.</i> (1 Corinthians 4:14-16)</b><br />
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Imitators of Paul. A spectacle to the world. A fool for the sake of Christ. Weak. Without honor. Hungry and thirsty. Poorly clothed. Roughly treated. Homeless. A hard worker who blesses when reviled, endures when persecuted, and tries to reconcile when slandered. Scum and dregs.<br />
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<b><i>Imitate this.</i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5Dhg9fVQYfOhD769M7GdG_FYMnZtGZb339e5fw6330ReGT5Bvi7TKBjXfOFhK4bx1GRTctdmcEUXndxoD_8HHSHc1h8Owfe3HkeGUQ-4iNZECk4DN9UNkxcFPyUnfEc6SzVRspq7aDQ/s1600/blessed-road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Road Blessed By God" border="0" data-original-height="932" data-original-width="1600" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5Dhg9fVQYfOhD769M7GdG_FYMnZtGZb339e5fw6330ReGT5Bvi7TKBjXfOFhK4bx1GRTctdmcEUXndxoD_8HHSHc1h8Owfe3HkeGUQ-4iNZECk4DN9UNkxcFPyUnfEc6SzVRspq7aDQ/s400/blessed-road.jpg" title="The Road Blessed By God" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>The call to abundant life in Christ is really a call to death to self. Much of what passes for Christianity these days is just talk. We talk the talk. Paul walked the walk. He taught everywhere, in every church, that this walk is for all who claim to follow Christ. Not just the "super saints."</b><br />
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On our own, and in our strength, this is impossible. But praise God for His grace and power which is so readily available to all who call on Him and rest in Him!<br />
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<b><i>But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall find out, not the words of those who are arrogant but their power. For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power.</i> (1 Corinthians 4:19-20)</b><br />
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If the grace of God is active in your life, then the same power that made a weak and fearful man like Paul a powerful servant and steward of the mysteries of God is active in you.<br />
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<b><i>And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling, and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.</i> (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)</b><br />
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Paul was transformed by the power of the gospel and His living Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Paul proclaimed those same truths as a faithful steward. His message was not his own. What he received he passed on (1 Corinthians 15:1-10). As a servant of Christ, the grace and power of God worked actively and powerfully in his life because he was willing to die to self and submit himself to the living God. The power and strength for his ministry sprang forth from this willingness. As a result, God was glorified through Paul's weakness.<br />
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<b><i>And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.</i> (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1vg79HEpr7qs4E0z4Jl660p4nXJvxaK9stI3XEksFMTH7N8euMapU43WfbvPyWATsJhVxt2tWDMSsvrQ27exy40A2GPgCOY4NLohIOHcV0TuAMvNFlCNjzIhrGQ50iSdKgPWNkFSFcns/s1600/Grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Ephesians 2:8" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1vg79HEpr7qs4E0z4Jl660p4nXJvxaK9stI3XEksFMTH7N8euMapU43WfbvPyWATsJhVxt2tWDMSsvrQ27exy40A2GPgCOY4NLohIOHcV0TuAMvNFlCNjzIhrGQ50iSdKgPWNkFSFcns/s320/Grace.jpg" title="By Grace" width="320" /></a></div>
Do you believe that His grace sufficient for you? Are you willing to die to self, that Christ might live through you? Are you willing to suffer the loss of all things so that you might gain Christ? Are you doing what is necessary to be a faithful servant and steward of the mysteries of God?<br />
<br />
If you are a follower of Christ, it is required that you be found trustworthy (1 Corinthians 4:2).<br />
<br />
He is worthy of nothing less.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-39008929988412887882018-11-14T13:03:00.000-05:002019-02-19T10:14:10.880-05:00Secret To An Open Door - A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIdpYO8mAgdm-fCTe-uGHHhjaihHXjQ6U4kkVH-4CRGe4xfvLnY89ckKecgyB3NRfwDLZQOP1ERtYD3q7Ua5SqPpp-ZmqMjd7l9jW_8bNAPUkmvmzwcZIfPpp5d75t0gbN11qfHR9HpqY/s1600/Secret+To+An+Open+Door+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="332" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIdpYO8mAgdm-fCTe-uGHHhjaihHXjQ6U4kkVH-4CRGe4xfvLnY89ckKecgyB3NRfwDLZQOP1ERtYD3q7Ua5SqPpp-ZmqMjd7l9jW_8bNAPUkmvmzwcZIfPpp5d75t0gbN11qfHR9HpqY/s320/Secret+To+An+Open+Door+Image.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<h2>
David A. Morel's short book, <i><a href="https://amzn.to/2Dn5IHK">Secret To An Open Door: Igniting a Passion for the Lost</a></i>, was recommended to me by a dear friend. I'm glad it was.</h2>
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0972215212" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
This book focus is different than virtually every other book on evangelism that I've ever read.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Greatest Strength</h2>
Being different isn't always better. In some cases, books are better simply because they are different. I found the difference in approach that was presented by Morel to be a refreshing and edifying angle.<br />
<br />
The biblical information that Morel starts with isn't what you might expect. He doesn't start at 1 Corinthians 15 or John 3:16. Instead, the biblical content emphasized is regarding the gospel as a "mystery." Morel spends a good amount of effort to trace the importance of this theme through the pages of Scripture and the life of the Apostle Paul in particular.<br />
<br />
Understanding the spiritual aspect of the gospel is lost on many. Morel tries to make this clear. This spiritual understanding requires us to use spiritual means to advance the gospel. Such talk may make some people nervous. But denying the reality of spiritual warfare would be a mistake. Morel focuses his attention and writing on the importance of understanding the unseen forces at work when preaching the gospel. He seeks to help Christians learn the secret to fruitful evangelism based on the ministry and, particularly, prayers of the Apostle Paul.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70acmGRWwb41AFfzS0gWFRSFfO8vrWG-B5ZJ-KOr_dhL30hKmqrVsFoF31USpDA1dHKRNQlBFGTIKVz-pAjW8dpRuQDI9DhDHKGaM0suRaP0_d8lpQ0N7Zz7AFs_j7CRMiDWLFoDL09I/s1600/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Relying on the power of Prayer" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70acmGRWwb41AFfzS0gWFRSFfO8vrWG-B5ZJ-KOr_dhL30hKmqrVsFoF31USpDA1dHKRNQlBFGTIKVz-pAjW8dpRuQDI9DhDHKGaM0suRaP0_d8lpQ0N7Zz7AFs_j7CRMiDWLFoDL09I/s400/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" title="Learning to Pray" width="400" /></a></div>
Learning to pray like Paul for success and open doors in evangelism is extremely important. Relying on God instead of methods of the flesh is crucial. After reading this book, I immediately began praying more like Paul. I found that God was pleased to open a door for me to share the gospel unexpectedly right away. If every Christian prayed this way, I am confident that much more genuine and fruitful evangelism would be the result.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Greatest Weakness</h2>
I mean everything I said above. Even still, I have a lot of theological differences with the material in <i>Secret to an Open Door</i>. Reading the section on the process of personal witnessing was very difficult. Aside from the discussion on the spiritual nature of evangelism and the importance of prayer in opening the door for effective witness, I can't say I found much of value for me personally.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Conclusion</h2>
For people I know who are already practicing evangelism in their daily lives, I would have no problem recommending this book. I would probably qualify my recommendation by saying they could read the first four chapters (only 46 pages) and ignore the last four.<br />
<br />
Even with half of the book removed, I am not exaggerating when I say the part that remains is well-worth careful consideration. It is extremely easy for Christians, especially those who are comfortable in their personal witness, to rely on their experience and methods instead of the power of God. The Apostle Paul clearly understood the importance and power of prayer in effective gospel ministry. Morel's book brought clarity to this important subject more than any other book I've ever read. For that, I will always be thankful.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-85519810697273795992018-11-14T12:32:00.000-05:002019-02-19T10:15:26.520-05:00The Gospel & Personal Evangelism - A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguaqxBLy2GaGTEbvAn9w-2udlH5_mFma9PwyHzBGSFKc8IShGP-NUW8e1TgBm9zR6tTsB6Z75fYRB6m4WDvrfy7ACZDMjj4XiyKMi0ZRHFzBNqd-cPrME67_uratdZzc5njmpTD8NNKCo/s1600/Gospel+and+Personal+Evangelism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="220" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguaqxBLy2GaGTEbvAn9w-2udlH5_mFma9PwyHzBGSFKc8IShGP-NUW8e1TgBm9zR6tTsB6Z75fYRB6m4WDvrfy7ACZDMjj4XiyKMi0ZRHFzBNqd-cPrME67_uratdZzc5njmpTD8NNKCo/s320/Gospel+and+Personal+Evangelism.jpg" width="203" /></a></div>
<h2>
Mark Dever claims to have written his book, <i><a href="https://amzn.to/2DHWxm2" rel="nofollow">The Gospel and Personal Evangelism</a></i>, to help individual Christians and local churches develop a culture of evangelism. He wants them to evangelize more.</h2>
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B0017JWL28" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
For this, he should be commended.<br />
<br />
I am eager to endorse this aim. I share it. I think every local church should have the same goal.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Strengths</h2>
<b>1. The Scope.</b> As Dever seeks to create a culture of evangelism he brings in details that other authors skip. This book attempts to deal with stumbling blocks that keep people from evangelizing, making the case that evangelism is something for all Christians to grow and participate in, what to do leading up to, during, and after actual evangelism takes place.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCczADgSEbZMtXyyWRRKdov954T_FRy4Wka7NJnKVLDyEsGr5Oi3wR9sAY3QKGXzR4Up3DEmrJn8-45uvFQhMN73vog4-tAXSMZbtugoY2FUxSr4PFjs5a0ODXN-vb8kXpW4D5Jo_X8s/s1600/Moralism+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="What Evangelism Isn't" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCczADgSEbZMtXyyWRRKdov954T_FRy4Wka7NJnKVLDyEsGr5Oi3wR9sAY3QKGXzR4Up3DEmrJn8-45uvFQhMN73vog4-tAXSMZbtugoY2FUxSr4PFjs5a0ODXN-vb8kXpW4D5Jo_X8s/s400/Moralism+2.jpg" title="What Evangelism Is Not" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>2. What Evangelism Isn't.</b> Like other books in the 9 Marks series, Dever attempts to clarify the gospel and evangelism by presenting what it is and what it isn't. Particularly helpful in this little book is the discussion of commonly held views about evangelism that Dever rightly teaches actually are <u>not</u> evangelism. Dever tackles many related topics that are good Christian activities on their own - things like personal testimony, service, and apologetics - by showing how these are different than evangelism. This section is worth the price of the book alone.<br />
<br />
<b>3. The Move Toward Discipleship.</b> Many books on evangelism focus only leading up to and during the actual witnessing encounter. Dever's book includes what to do afterward, too. This is a part of the number one strength listed above. But it deserves its own mention.<br />
<br />
I've met many Christians who evangelize and think a lot about scattering gospel seed. I think we would all do well to think about how to continue caring for the seed that has been sown in both those who believe and those who reject the gospel message. Dever helps his readers to think more about these things. A true strength in this little book.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Weaknesses</h2>
<b>1. The Length.</b> What makes these books popular is that they are short. As such, they are extremely readable. However, I am seemingly always left wanting more. The gospel and personal evangelism is such a weighty subject. Here we briefly touch on the surface. It's a good step in the direction of building a culture of personal evangelism. Taking action in this area will go a long way. However, the brevity of much of the discussion in this book leaves a superficial impression in my mind. This leads to my next thought...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyCnMvgvPRvYwy0nyUsLEmtk3UhRCM-MOcIHaQxQN7kOeYm4ImPDLUql1zwgAaV_OntMDI1UyEIgOKEvrrkA3E3odYzC1ey_hT6lRQN3NtfTSzYsxJwdFOMstlDrYiU7IpPu8D5-qWCE/s1600/Gospel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Gospel of Jesus Christ" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyCnMvgvPRvYwy0nyUsLEmtk3UhRCM-MOcIHaQxQN7kOeYm4ImPDLUql1zwgAaV_OntMDI1UyEIgOKEvrrkA3E3odYzC1ey_hT6lRQN3NtfTSzYsxJwdFOMstlDrYiU7IpPu8D5-qWCE/s400/Gospel.jpg" title="The Gospel" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>2. The Gospel.</b> The weakness mentioned above is most glaring in Dever's discussion of the gospel itself. The subject of the Title, yet the discussion spans 14 pages. Some of that discussion is anecdote. While I don't think Dever failed in his pursuit, it is an extremely superficial discussion. For such a short section Dever may have done about as well as possible. Yet, there are far better treatments of the gospel. To be fair, there are certainly far worse, too. As part of the title and aim, this element is severely lacking, in my opinion.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Misuse of the terminology "Evangelist."</b> Dever is not alone in his misuse of this biblical term. It's probably not fair for me to single him out. It should be stated clearly that sharing the gospel doesn't make you an evangelist. This issue is the main focus of this blog, so it's a bigger deal to me than to most. Take that for what it's worth!<br />
<h2>
Conclusion</h2>
I like Mark Dever's book, <i><a href="https://amzn.to/2DHWxm2" rel="nofollow">The Gospel and Personal Evangelism</a></i>. There are other, similar books that I like a lot more. I would be happy to recommend this book to someone who I am confident has an excellent grasp on the gospel already or who expresses a strong desire to study the gospel in great depth.<br />
<br />
To truly succeed in the aim Dever shoots for - creating a culture of evangelism - I think we need to cultivate a far deeper understanding and appreciation of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. Both in our own hearts and minds, and in the hearts and minds of our brothers and sisters in Christ.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-14003674735169778002018-11-13T14:27:00.000-05:002018-11-23T22:45:18.284-05:00The Heart Of The Gospel - A Review<h2>
Robert E. Coleman's <i><a href="https://amzn.to/2RXDl75" rel="nofollow">The Heart of the Gospel: The Theology Behind The Master Plan of Evangelism</a></i> is a systematic theology book. I have a lot of Systematic Theologies on my shelves.</h2>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Gospel-Theology-behind-Evangelism-ebook/dp/B004TS1M2O/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1542135038&sr=8-2&keywords=the+heart+of+the+gospel+coleman&linkCode=li3&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=7e55611d7ee53171b10a971e3de68be2&language=en_US" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B004TS1M2O&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B004TS1M2O" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
The reason I recommend <i>this</i> book so highly is that Coleman always brings things back to the gospel. When theologians disagree, Coleman points these disagreements out - then shows why both sides still require the same gospel focus. A truly great read.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Strength</h2>
Coleman states plainly on page 13 that:<br />
<blockquote>
Getting to know this God and glorifying him is the purpose of evangelism.</blockquote>
I couldn't agree more.<br />
<br />
Knowing God, being known by Him, and making Him known are the great privileges of the Christian. As a result of Coleman's focus, his systematic theology revolves around evangelism serving this purpose. Most systematic theologies treat evangelism as one aspect of their system. It gets its own chapter or two. Not so with Coleman's system. The purpose of knowing God and glorifying Him is a steady current through all of the various aspects of theology.<br />
<br />
The result is a volume that makes theology incredibly applicable. You should expect nothing less from Coleman, a man who has practiced what he preaches. I've had the joy of meeting and studying with Dr. Coleman in the past and that personal contact has only served to make me appreciate this volume even more. This is not merely the theoretical work of a scholar. It is a passion project from a brother in Christ who has sought to faithfully preach the gospel and make disciples for a lifetime.<br />
<br />
Although Coleman comes from a Wesleyan theological background, he has no problem acknowledging where Calvinists will take issue with his theological conclusions. He then moves from that acknowledgment to the application that <u>both</u> views still require Christians of either view to proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth.<br />
<br />
Instead of dividing, Coleman seeks to unify theological strands into a cohesive understanding of the truth of first and foremost importance: the gospel of Jesus Christ.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Weakness</h2>
I have reviewed <i>The Master Plan of Evangelism</i> <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/02/the-master-plan-of-evangelism-review.html">here</a>. My criticisms there are just as applicable for this book, since it is the foundation for the theology behind <i>The Master Plan of Evangelism</i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AigPX7iZUD1lwFDZw256dbJlEim_nwRtAlWrSTaLHBaZzy0uqfb52IoM7lsEinEry8aAyGlhD4VBOb-4FPSxMWCU1qSx_XHXaFCxueydVwFGf9WE1l0DunqlO4tcF14DegfzBL-XBCA/s1600/flimsy-foundation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Build Carefully!" border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="676" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AigPX7iZUD1lwFDZw256dbJlEim_nwRtAlWrSTaLHBaZzy0uqfb52IoM7lsEinEry8aAyGlhD4VBOb-4FPSxMWCU1qSx_XHXaFCxueydVwFGf9WE1l0DunqlO4tcF14DegfzBL-XBCA/s400/flimsy-foundation.jpg" title="Build carefully!" width="400" /></a></div>
This disagreement becomes most obvious in Coleman's chapter on "The Church and Her Ministry." Coleman and I agree on much but the leadership view he presents I believe is inadequate in light of the biblical revelation. As a result, the accurate aims of the church and her ministry which Coleman rightly identifies are hindered in their implementation in the real world.<br />
<h2>
Conclusion</h2>
Although the criticism is a weighty one, if you are aware of it you will find much of value in this excellent book.<br />
<br />
I find Robert E. Coleman's <i><a href="https://amzn.to/2RXDl75" rel="nofollow">The Heart of the Gospel</a></i> to be a worthwhile and edifying read. It has been my favorite systematic theology to read from cover-to-cover. While other systematic theologies may be more valuable for particular topics, the unifying thread and focus of this work makes it exceptional.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-24762719055178484712018-11-13T13:11:00.000-05:002018-11-23T22:42:46.680-05:00Marks of the Messenger: Knowing, Living and Speaking the Gospel - A Review<h1>
J. Mack Stiles attempts to bring together two topics that are often separated in the minds of Christians. These ideas should be kept together.</h1>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marks-Messenger-Knowing-Living-Speaking/dp/0830833501/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1542131776&sr=8-1&keywords=marks+of+the+messenger&linkCode=li3&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=6b3e0050a7620c75fcb3176d41d4a873&language=en_US" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0830833501&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0830833501" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
Some authors emphasize content. They build on the truth that the gospel is the power of God for salvation to all who believe. If we get the content down, God can use it for His glory.<br />
<br />
Other authors emphasize character. Think lifestyle evangelism. They downplay content and build upon the truth that if I speak without love I am just a resounding gong or a clanging symbol. They want Christians to walk the walk, even if they downplay talking the talk.<br />
<br />
J. Mack Stiles does the rare thing of actually interacting with <i>both</i>.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Strength</h2>
The greatest strength of this short book is its attempt to unite both <i>message</i> and <i>messenger</i>. Stiles attempts to emphasize the importance of actually preaching the gospel in its fullness while also emphasizing the character and conduct of the one speaking these truths.<br />
<br />
In doing so, Stiles has brought together the full scope of teaching from the Scriptures that many authors miss because they are busy emphasizing one to the neglect of the other. For this effort, Stiles should be commended.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Weakness</h2>
Due to the attempt to navigate both the message and the messenger, while also keeping the length short and including a lot of anecdotes and illustrations, the weakness becomes evident that Stiles will not be the best exploration of content or character that you can find. Other authors who emphasize the importance of content <i>only</i> will delve much deeper. Likewise, those who emphasize <i>only</i> character will likewise find their treatments more exhaustive.<br />
<h2>
Conclusion</h2>
If you're looking for the <u>best</u> treatment of either the content of the gospel or the character of a mature Christian, this book will probably let you down.<br />
<br />
If you're looking for an encouraging and edifying read that is balanced in its treatment of both content and character, then I think you will find it in <a href="https://amzn.to/2FkQpBZ" rel="nofollow"><i>Marks of the Messenger</i></a>.<br />
<br />
I would be confident recommending this book to any Christian I know who has been taking their call to proclaim the gospel seriously and who is committed to growing in Christ's likeness by the grace of God.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-84575621485258469182018-11-13T12:42:00.002-05:002018-11-23T22:41:47.622-05:00What Is The Gospel? - A Review<h1>
<a href="https://amzn.to/2TbCK2J" rel="nofollow">Greg Gilbert's <i>What Is The Gospel?</i></a> little book is packed with helpful information. It delivers on answering the question by which it is titled.</h1>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/What-Gospel-9Marks-Greg-Gilbert/dp/1433515008/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1542128553&sr=8-1&keywords=what+is+the+gospel+greg+gilbert&linkCode=li3&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=a4b4407f041f811da141a11670eb606a&language=en_US" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="What is the Gospel?" border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1433515008&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US" title="What is the Gospel?" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1433515008" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />Gilbert begins this little book by stating this question should be an easy one to answer. Certainly it is something all Christians should find agreement on, right? A book such as this should "be completely unnecessary. It's like asking carpenters to sit around and ponder the question, What is a hammer?" (Gilbert, p. 15).</div>
<br />
But it is necessary.<br />
<br />
Gilbert's experience matches my own. If you ask Christians the simple question, "What is the gospel?" you will get varied responses. Many of these responses fall well short of the biblical testimony. Gilbert sets out to bring some clarity and substance to the question.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Strengths</h2>
<b>1. The Outline.</b> Gilbert traces the gospel testimony throughout Scripture and looks for an outline to follow, not simply a recitation on basic facts or content. I think this is an element that sets this book apart from other attempts to answer the same question. It's not that this book ignores content. Quite the contrary! However, it looks for an overall outline of how that content is connected throughout the varied proclamations of the gospel recorded throughout Scripture.<br />
<br />
The outline of God-Man-Christ-Response is informative and helpful. It is a faithful outline that can be followed by Christians as we proclaim the gospel to the world.<br />
<br />
<b>2. The Flexibility.</b> This is related to the first point. Once the outline is established in your mind, the follower of Christ has the freedom to expand each element as necessary for the context. Gilbert gives examples throughout Scripture of certain preachers who spend more time on certain elements than others based on their context.<br />
<br />
If we are equipped to proclaim on each element, we can follow the lead of the Holy Spirit in emphasizing which aspects of the gospel are more needed. We can also be sure that we are not leaving necessary elements out simply because it seems like other aspects need to be emphasized. A particular witnessing situation may require more or less time spent on the God element, for example. If the outline is understood, I can be free to expand and dwell on this element before quickly touching on the remaining elements to ensure a complete proclamation.<br />
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<b>3. The Need For Further Study.</b> Some may consider this a weakness. I consider it a strength.<br />
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I firmly believe that what is most needed for Christians desiring to be faithful in their witness is to be saturated in biblical truth. Not just some of it. All of it.<br />
<br />
Sometimes evangelism methods can claim to be exhaustive. As a result, the Christian can be deceived into believing that once the method is memorized and the content is assimilated, you're good to go. No further growth is needed.<br />
<br />
Gilbert's model presents an outline that is well-suited to a lifetime of further biblical study and growth. As you saturate yourself in the Word of God you will be better equipped to expand on each and every element of his suggested outline. The more you study, the more helpful the outline becomes. Not because it gives you the content to say but a coherent way of organizing the content of the gospel no matter how much content you have hidden in your heart from your own study.<br />
<br />
<b>4. What The Gospel Is Not.</b> Gilbert also takes some time to address many of the incomplete ideas of the gospel that are featured predominantly in popular theology. It was good to include this to both address what the gospel <u>is</u> and what it <u>isn't</u>.<br />
<h2>
Greatest Weakness</h2>
While the length of this book can be viewed as a strength (it's pretty short), there is a possibility that someone may conclude this study is all you need to know. Not only does Gilbert address the gospel but he deals with a very important related topic: the kingdom of God. This second study could be a book all on its own.<br />
<br />
Likewise, as Gilbert addresses some of the incomplete gospel ideas (a strength) I felt he could have given them a lot more attention than he did.<br />
<br />
I tend to like longer explanations. I understand that this weakness in my view will be a strength to many others because it makes the book more readable and accessible to a wider audience. I tend to think that those who agree with Gilbert from the beginning will be most likely to appreciate the shorter length. For those who are inclined to disagree with Gilbert, however, I'm not sure that his short engagement with ideas held near and dear will convince those in error to change their minds and agree with him.<br />
<h2>
Conclusion</h2>
<a href="https://amzn.to/2TbCK2J" rel="nofollow">What is the Gospel?</a> is not as thorough as <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/01/recovering-gospel-review.html">Paul Washer's book series</a> on the same topic. However, that is not really a criticism or a weakness. It's a strength. Gilbert has done something that very few authors have done - he took the important topic of the gospel and made it very accessible. In my opinion, this short read is an excellent primer and a good giveaway to those just learning about the gospel.<br />
<br />
It has also served very well as we have equipped people to preach the gospel in many contexts, especially for those desirous of learning to proclaim the gospel in public.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-64851616580927876942018-11-01T11:22:00.000-04:002018-12-05T21:09:51.088-05:00Bypassing The Buffet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxL7gJ0EQFm6kByfHqKVqdyshmdNLAk1NuY2gkohJ91YucAhGJtSJTaU6cSlGlOARcs4gdsgEfPRrNymAj1Dmh1u-onqMemFMDCmhbWQraa75H3LIRpVqoGMVPA7SGYiBIsz9v_YPuFW0/s1600/Buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Bypassing the Buffet" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxL7gJ0EQFm6kByfHqKVqdyshmdNLAk1NuY2gkohJ91YucAhGJtSJTaU6cSlGlOARcs4gdsgEfPRrNymAj1Dmh1u-onqMemFMDCmhbWQraa75H3LIRpVqoGMVPA7SGYiBIsz9v_YPuFW0/s400/Buffet.jpg" title="Buffet" width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
The modern church has no shortage of programs. It's a virtual buffet of options.</h2>
We've got programs for children, youth, young adults, regular adults, senior adults, singles, married, and divorced. We have music programs, motorcycle programs, discipleship programs, addiction programs, prison programs, visitation programs, evangelism programs, shut-in programs, summer programs, winter programs, holiday programs, and so on. Programs for the grieving and for those who are rejoicing.<br />
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In-reach, out-reach. You name it, we've got it.<br />
<br />
Did I miss your favorite program? Would you leave a church because they did not have it?<br />
<br />
I am not trying to be silly. This is serious.<br />
<br />
People attend and leave churches because of programs. Even when a local church has a program, it is constantly in danger of losing people to a better program down the road. Many of the growing churches are growing by transfer growth, not conversions of nonbelievers.<br />
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<h3>
The buffet of programs seemingly exists everywhere we look. Well, unless we're looking in the New Testament.</h3>
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Paul planted churches that had incredible impact. They reached their regions with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Disciples were made. But Paul did not attempt to build churches by establishing thriving children’s ministries. Never do you read of Paul exhorting believers to hire dynamic youth pastors or to spend their resources on an excellent VBS program. Paul never encouraged these churches to make sure they had dynamic pastors with degrees from accredited universities who could give eloquent and passionate talks. Paul never mentioned the importance of talented music ministers.<br />
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Today, we seem to emphasize programs. But what did Paul emphasize?<br />
<br />
He made an amazing statement in 1 Corinthians 4:16-17,<br />
<blockquote>
Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. </blockquote>
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<b>Paul taught this everywhere. In every church. This should grab our attention.</b><br />
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Paul didn't establish program-driven churches. He never took surveys of the felt needs of the community. We have no record of his using resources to create fun, no-strings-attached programs to appeal to the unchurched. Instead, Paul explained his program in the opening chapter (1 Corinthians 1:17-25),<br />
<br />
<b><i>For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made void. For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will set aside.' Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.</i></b><br />
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Christ didn't send Paul to establish programs. Christ sent him to preach the gospel.<br />
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Paul knew what the Jews wanted. Signs. He knew what the Greeks wanted. Wisdom. What was his response? He preached a crucified, resurrected, and exalted Messiah.<br />
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This gospel message was the power and wisdom of God to those who believed. This same message was foolishness to the rest. He didn’t give them what they wanted or felt they needed. Paul chose to give them what Christ said they needed. He didn’t give them the best programs he could built with the material resources available to him and upon the backs of volunteers. Paul instead gave them the pure gospel built on the power of God.<br />
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<b>Despite modern ideas, God’s power does not rely upon programs, methods, or resources; it does not rely on hiring a dynamic speaker, someone with a PhD, or being culturally “relevant.” God’s power and wisdom are found in the gospel.</b><br />
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Due to the sheer number of problems he was addressing in Corinth it is easy to miss Paul’s little statement about imitating his ways, holding firm the traditions, and the reality that he taught this in <i>every</i> church. Paul practiced what he preached. Paul consistently went to strategic places to proclaim the gospel. First to Jews, then to Gentiles. Afterward, Paul encouraged and strengthened these churches, trusting they could sustain the same ministry of faithfully proclaiming this message to others.<br />
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When Epaphras did this to his hometown of Colossae, Paul rejoiced. He wrote to this community, which he had never met, with confidence they were sharing in the ministry of evangelizing the world. That is God’s program. Paul wrote to them assuming they participated in the same ministry program he did.<br />
<blockquote>
We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.<br />
(Colossians 1:28–29)</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxDSx90sS1x3O2j3N97IN_8XCRx18t49Q6vAjnnSAEiLecwmZjLaa7uzgGuKkWUOV5KKL27IMNg-g1I-gw_FrEs2Jj41LlLDqPUi8SfmCJUuF-sMm_-ckAY7QlcCF-qjElrO8MNVQW0U/s1600/Ambassadors+of+reconciliation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Ambassadors For Christ" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxDSx90sS1x3O2j3N97IN_8XCRx18t49Q6vAjnnSAEiLecwmZjLaa7uzgGuKkWUOV5KKL27IMNg-g1I-gw_FrEs2Jj41LlLDqPUi8SfmCJUuF-sMm_-ckAY7QlcCF-qjElrO8MNVQW0U/s400/Ambassadors+of+reconciliation.jpg" title="Ministry of Reconciliation" width="400" /></a></div>
Paul included these saints in Colossae in the ministry of proclaiming Christ, admonishing and teaching everyone with the purpose of presenting them in Christ before the Father. The Colossians participated with Paul in the same labor, in God’s power.<br />
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The believers in Colossae were doing what was right. In contrast, the believers in Corinth were getting distracted. Paul was careful to remind the Corinthians of the truth of the gospel in chapter 15. Paul discussed some important theology regarding the resurrection. We must not miss what he wrote in verse 34:<br />
<blockquote>
Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.</blockquote>
Ouch.<br />
<br />
Paul revealed the primary reason for his desire they should stop sinning. It was not because their sinning was making them unhappy. It was not for some self-interested reason.<br />
<h2>
Instead, Paul told them they should have been ashamed of themselves because there were some who had no knowledge of God. Their sin was distracting them from their primary duty as Christians: spreading the knowledge of God through the gospel and the testimony of the church.</h2>
Paul returned to this theme in 2 Corinthians as he once again described his apostolic ministry.<br />
<blockquote>
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things?<br />
(2 Corinthians 2:14–16)</blockquote>
Paul sought to follow the lead of the Holy Spirit, to do all things for the sake of the gospel and the glory of God, and to do all things for the edification of the church. Paul was single-minded in pursuing these things. That single-minded devotion was why Paul described his thanksgiving even in the midst of difficulty knowing God always leads Christians in triumph in Christ and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Jesus everywhere.<br />
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<b>At least, God does this when we become sober-minded and stop sinning.</b><br />
<br />
Sin can distract us from our God-ordained purpose to manifest the knowledge of God. But when we are walking in accordance with His will, God works through us for that purpose. It is why God saved us.<br />
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It's possible that our buffet of programs is aimed at manifesting the knowledge of God. It's more likely that our programs become a distraction from our real purpose as Christians. We are not called to build a social club. We are called to manifest the sweet aroma of the true knowledge of Jesus.<br />
<br />
This program of God using His children to manifest the knowledge of who He is in the world is in line with the theology of the church as described by our leading theologians. It was no small theme in Paul’s writings.<br />
<br />
In the epistle to the Galatians, Paul wrote of his astonishment that they were turning from the gospel they had received to another gospel, which was no gospel at all. Paul also used the strongest language possible when he declared that those preaching a different gospel were to be accursed with everlasting condemnation in hell. In the process of turning to a different gospel, the Galatians were turning away from the person of God. Paul urged these Christians to walk with the Spirit of the living God because they knew God and were known by Him.<br />
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To the saints in Ephesus, Paul wrote of the glory of God’s plan to give to His children a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. Paul prayed that they would be unified in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God.<br />
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Paul prayed that the believers in Colossae would be filled with a knowledge of God’s will so they would walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, please Him in all respects, bear fruit in every good work, and increase in the knowledge of God. Paul expressed his desire for these saints to have a full assurance of understanding that would result from a knowledge of Christ.<br />
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Paul explained to the believers in Thessalonica how their knowledge of God led to their sanctification. This was in contrast to those who lived in accordance with their lusts because they <i>didn’t</i> know God.<br />
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Similarly, Paul warned Titus of the empty confession of those who claimed to know God but whose deeds demonstrated they did not.<br />
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He further warned the Thessalonians of the dreadful consequences coming upon those who did not know God in contrast to the glorious hope for those who did.<br />
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Paul wrote to the saints in Rome that God’s judgment was upon the unbelievers because they suppressed what was known about God in their unrighteousness.<br />
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<h3>
Paul understood that the world was not able to come to know God on its own, so God was pleased to have people come to know Him through the proclamation of the gospel. Since the knowledge of God was manifested through Christians, Paul took the proclamation of the gospel seriously. He sought to tear down anything that was raised up against the knowledge of God. This included admonishing those in sin because sin in the lives of believers caused them to lose focus on God’s program of manifesting the knowledge of Christ in every place.</h3>
<br />
Paul wrote to Timothy of God’s desire that all be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. A knowledge of the one mediator between God and humanity and what people must do to receive Christ as Savior. Paul encouraged Timothy to remain faithful on the basis of Paul’s knowing Jesus personally and knowing Jesus was faithful not just to Paul but also to Timothy. Paul encouraged Timothy that this “knowledge” wasn’t one-sided. Jesus knows those who are His.<br />
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Paul was not content simply to manifest the knowledge of God to others, or to pray that believers would know God better, or warn of the consequences coming to those who did not know God. Paul was not shy about professing to the Philippians his desire above all else to grow in his knowledge of God. <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2013/10/the-surpassing-value-of-knowing-christ.html">Paul viewed this as having a value greater than anything else.</a><br />
<br />
Are you getting the picture?<br />
<br />
Paul was consumed with the knowledge of God. He wanted to know Christ. Paul wanted others to know Christ. He wanted to destroy anything that would hinder people from coming to know Christ. He did everything so the knowledge of Christ could increase. He thanked God that even when his own circumstances were difficult or seemingly contrary to the good, the knowledge of Christ was expanding and that was a reason to celebrate.<br />
<br />
In light of this, how do you think Paul would react if the Corinthians had told him about their plan to hold non-confrontational potlucks so the church could get to know members of the community? Do you think Paul would respond favorably to outreach and evangelism methods that prioritized human relationships horizontally over pointing people to the Savior so they could have a right relationship with God vertically?<br />
<br />
Many outreach and church-growth strategies recognize that the more we magnify Jesus, the reaction of death to death is still how those who are perishing react. However, if we prioritize our programs that cater to the various lusts and impulses of the flesh and the general brokenness of this present world and desire to numerically grow those who sow into our own ministry, diminishing Jesus and emphasizing felt needs becomes a reasonable strategy.<br />
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<b>Not biblical. Reasonable. To put it another way: it is walking by sight, not by faith.</b><br />
<br />
We can justify this strategy because the people we supposedly want to reach seemingly respond much better because they are willing to participate in the programs we’ve created to minister to their felt needs whereas they do not respond with pleasure to the preaching of the gospel.<br />
<br />
Let's return to what Paul said to the Corinthians.<br />
<blockquote>
Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church.<br />
(1 Corinthians 4:16–17)</blockquote>
<br />
Imitators of Paul. Who sought to proclaim boldly, faithfully, and lovingly the gospel of Jesus.<br />
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Imitators of Paul. Who lived to know Jesus and to make Him known.<br />
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Imitators of Paul. Who lived to tear down anything that hindered a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Not only this, but to understand that such a ministry is pleasing to God and pleasing to those who are being saved but is displeasing to those who are perishing.<br />
<br />
Paul knew that persecution was waiting for him everywhere he went. Not simply because he was an apostle. Because this was the nature of Christian ministry. If we do it well and manifest the knowledge of God, persecution awaits us, too.<br />
<br />
Paul was not kidding when he warned young Timothy (2 Tim 3:12),<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.</blockquote>
<br />
Not might be. Will be.<br />
<h2>
When we cater to the flesh and stop seeking to make Jesus known in all His fullness, persecution is not necessary. No one persecutes Christians for having nonconfrontational potlucks.</h2>
We should be alarmed that we have found a way to “share Jesus” with people without it either being an aroma of life to life or an aroma of death to death. We have so modified the program of God, watered down the message of the gospel, and hidden the knowledge of God that <i>ambivalence</i> is a normal response. Christians are not being persecuted in the United States as they are in other places. It is not because we are a Christian nation. It's because we've deviated from God's program and agenda to pursue our own programs and agendas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79MblhgbyYv_HEHG9UvSnlCL6eddFiCnywfP8WrRjXYUTPXFvAQtLkr0ZVHXQrtbV3Vo-Zybaqcb8d_OxF7aQ_YDJqe97-Skn2Jn_AfjpkZATFf3sIPu635P-KeqfkcR86VFqFjS5TJs/s1600/Unified+Direction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Unity" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh79MblhgbyYv_HEHG9UvSnlCL6eddFiCnywfP8WrRjXYUTPXFvAQtLkr0ZVHXQrtbV3Vo-Zybaqcb8d_OxF7aQ_YDJqe97-Skn2Jn_AfjpkZATFf3sIPu635P-KeqfkcR86VFqFjS5TJs/s400/Unified+Direction.jpg" title="Unified Direction" width="400" /></a></div>
We have substituted the program (singular) God intends for His church to follow programs (plural) that appeal to the flesh of nonbelievers and immature Christians. We spend more time trying to get people to know each other than we do urging them to truly know God. In many cases, people are preaching and teaching caricatures of God that skew the character of the living God revealed in the Scriptures and who walked the earth in the person of Jesus Christ; the God who is coming again in glory to gather a people to Himself from every tribe, tongue, and nation and to crush His adversaries under His feet.<br />
<br />
Do you know God? Are you making Him known?<br />
<br />
God’s love in us should compel us to proclaim the good news to everyone on earth.<br />
<br />
As we grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus, we should likewise grow in our understanding that we exist to manifest the knowledge of God everywhere.<br />
<br />
Get with God's program. For His name's sake.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
(This article is adapted from chapter 5 of <i>The Forgotten Officer: Restoring The Fullness of God's Design</i> by Joe Kohler. You can purchase the book <a href="https://amzn.to/2qm5XLp" rel="nofollow">here</a>.)</div>
Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-19359833987505625252018-10-30T17:29:00.000-04:002018-11-23T22:27:05.789-05:00Occupational Hazard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWBtDaIMOqV-8APLuPh4VO9huWvxWbJXhBJ9HNkmzSloNmqK5lYhOe2bqYX2kpS6xMPdbyRdAxirKeqacrV26iccvB5Jjg1qkUgVGbDahLjoTB1Qa3FZ_-itDbs7B0pXlc0tk1LVIzg0/s1600/Watch+Your+Step.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWBtDaIMOqV-8APLuPh4VO9huWvxWbJXhBJ9HNkmzSloNmqK5lYhOe2bqYX2kpS6xMPdbyRdAxirKeqacrV26iccvB5Jjg1qkUgVGbDahLjoTB1Qa3FZ_-itDbs7B0pXlc0tk1LVIzg0/s400/Watch+Your+Step.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
Some jobs are more dangerous than others. Certain risks are associated with various professions. By most standards, pastors have a pretty cushy job.</h2>
At least we do in the United States.<br />
<br />
But even in this modern American context there is a real danger for pastors. Few are talking about it. Most don't even know it's a danger.<br />
<br />
But it's there. Always lurking. It's a hazard that many fall into. It seems that many don't even realize they've fallen into the trap.<br />
<br />
This occupational hazard for pastors (and for all Christians really) is related to pride. It's a symptom of our modern church systems. It can only be fixed by returning to a robust theology of the church and focusing our attention back where it belongs.<br />
<br />
So, what is the danger?<br />
<br />
It is foolishly taking a position for ourselves with our lips that doesn't belong to us.<br />
<br />
The danger arises every time I meet someone new. Typical conversations may dwell for a few minutes on superficial and trivial matters. Sooner or later (especially when speaking with other men) the question will be asked:<br />
<h3>
So, what do you do?</h3>
When I reply, "I'm a pastor," I know the inevitable follow-up question is coming:<br />
<h3>
Oh! Where is your church?</h3>
The follow-up question seems harmless. On the surface, this is simply a clarifying question. It's the verbal equivalent of <i>where do you work?</i><br />
<br />
But it isn't harmless. How I respond to this question is extremely important. Jesus taught,<br />
<blockquote>
The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.<br />
(Luke 6:45)</blockquote>
<h3>
How I answer this question indicates what is in my heart. So, does my heart reflect the truth?</h3>
The truth is <i>I don't have a church</i>.<br />
<br />
Only Jesus does.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirN9Y286zECB2X0tajI10cIi4KvG3n8pwehRdTv0rpbdv2tfunD6nz_lvBtqvQeZTey1nIkvb5mZkpcnNpAMoLu6t1I_rJbgZDnhUze-qtuJfU8KUlLB5X795QFs1QyOdqOgHj1BhkBk8/s1600/Kneeling+at+the+cross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirN9Y286zECB2X0tajI10cIi4KvG3n8pwehRdTv0rpbdv2tfunD6nz_lvBtqvQeZTey1nIkvb5mZkpcnNpAMoLu6t1I_rJbgZDnhUze-qtuJfU8KUlLB5X795QFs1QyOdqOgHj1BhkBk8/s400/Kneeling+at+the+cross.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I can't shed my blood for my own sins, let alone for yours. I didn't suffer on the cross, enduring the wrath of God for anyone. I didn't rise triumphantly on the third day in fulfillment of the Scriptures. I didn't ascend into Heaven and take my seat at the right hand of the Father. I am not going to return in glory to gather a people to myself. I won't rule the nations with justice and deal out retribution to my adversaries.<br />
<br />
I won't do that because I'm not Jesus the Christ. Only Jesus has a church.<br />
<br />
Speaking of the risen and exalted Christ, the Apostle Paul said in Colossians 1:18,<br />
<blockquote>
He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.</blockquote>
<br />
I am a part of Christ's church. I minister, serve, worship, and fellowship together at a particular local church most of the time. However, I want to be very careful to never attempt to usurp Christ's role or place.<br />
<br />
Heaven forbid I take first place away from Christ!<br />
<br />
It's a dangerous statement to casually say, "My church is over here" or "My church is over there."<br />
<h2>
I don't have a church. Neither do you. There is only one church. It belongs to Jesus. Purchased with His precious blood.</h2>
Sometimes I get a funny look when I tell people that. I don't mean to be awkward. I understand when people ask me where my church is that they just want to know the name on the building I preach at.<br />
<br />
But don't I owe it to Christ to ensure He remains first? Shouldn't I prioritize honoring Christ and lifting Him up over convenience in conversation?<br />
<br />
It's true that modern culture refers to buildings as "churches." It's true that modern culture thinks pastors have "churches." But aren't we called to <i>not</i> be conformed to the ways of this world?<br />
<blockquote>
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)</blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCtRFFOZzw0ZEATNhBzpisZc9M9SjQ8EuW_xKouJRewC2gJ9c-1rvQweWstjUUhhwwv4hb4LmdgaClZhZdfDz8sOuI0I6iThmL5ofLYO_9NISW31-GtaSRHLN4q9xQiVrXAGEFQ9-ACY/s1600/Man+reading+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Reading the Bible" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCtRFFOZzw0ZEATNhBzpisZc9M9SjQ8EuW_xKouJRewC2gJ9c-1rvQweWstjUUhhwwv4hb4LmdgaClZhZdfDz8sOuI0I6iThmL5ofLYO_9NISW31-GtaSRHLN4q9xQiVrXAGEFQ9-ACY/s400/Man+reading+Bible.jpg" title="Read the Bible" width="400" /></a></div>
If I renew my mind by the Word of God, I cannot help but defer to Christ and point all glory, honor, and praise to Him. He is worthy. I am not.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for the opportunity to preach and teach in Christ's church. But I never want to mistakenly (or purposefully!) take first place for myself.<br />
<br />
When we speak of the church are we careful to ensure that people know that she belongs to Christ?<br />
<blockquote>
To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood--and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father-- to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen. (Revelation 1:5-7)</blockquote>
I belong to <i><b>the</b></i> church. I happen to be a part of a local fellowship that is part of <b><i>the</i></b> church of Jesus Christ. But "my" church is a careless and theologically inaccurate way to describe it.<br />
<br />
You may think I'm picking nits. That's fine if you do. But I believe this is a real danger. It is a symptom of the real problem - that we have failed to honor Christ in our hearts as He truly is. If we don't hold Him in His rightful place in our hearts, surely our lips will speak carelessly about His church. I am convicted that it is better to exalt Christ and be clear that the church belongs to Him than it is to cater to the passing winds and waves of culture and language.<br />
<br />
I desire to exalt Christ in my heart and with my words. How about you?Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-75101577794024311412018-05-21T13:56:00.000-04:002018-11-23T22:17:00.302-05:0010 Things An Evangelist Is Not<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Jm3-UwlBY1goYGRlTFUdlapoh8kcAfH1fU3l913_Q3WAEDmmvB4mEImOzPcy9FCW_jlI4NQAmgoSOlNdHM-Ypj7g6j5bF08C-vq94jikF3nI7QEsXZzd5B79_eYnCoRAjG1QnEjFQOQ/s1600/Evangelist+Is+Not.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Ten Things An Evangelist Is Not" border="0" data-original-height="1194" data-original-width="1600" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Jm3-UwlBY1goYGRlTFUdlapoh8kcAfH1fU3l913_Q3WAEDmmvB4mEImOzPcy9FCW_jlI4NQAmgoSOlNdHM-Ypj7g6j5bF08C-vq94jikF3nI7QEsXZzd5B79_eYnCoRAjG1QnEjFQOQ/s400/Evangelist+Is+Not.jpg" title="10 Things An Evangelist Is Not" width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
You've probably heard the term Evangelist before.</h2>
Most people have. The term most likely brings something to mind. Sometimes positive. Often negative.<br />
<br />
<b>Does your idea match what other people think of when they hear the term evangelist?</b><br />
<br />
<b>More importantly, do any of these ideas match <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/p/what-is-evangelist.html" target="_blank">what the Bible tells us an evangelist is</a>?</b><br />
<h2>
The truth is that most of the popular ideas about what an evangelist <i>is</i> and <i>does</i> are based on the culture, not the Bible.</h2>
This is a problem.<br />
<br />
The cultural idea of an evangelist is so popular that it is beginning to be used by companies. If you go to popular job sites and put the term <b>evangelist</b> into the search bar you will find many non-church jobs looking for evangelists. Many of these positions include the duties of spreading knowledge about a particular company, product, service, or idea.<br />
<h4>
The Bible tells us that Jesus gave some Evangelists for His church.</h4>
<blockquote>
<i>And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers</i> (Ephesians 4:11)</blockquote>
The pastors tend to get the most attention in our modern church culture. It's hard to think about a local church without a pastor. Other members of the list can cause some controversy. Depending on your circles and denominational influences, you may have strong opinions about those positions in the church.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYSXSJfRPtI8MQeA2m9IPGRfg9hDX4v6hmtFWNXuyjnWgECPbVeCBPqXkUPbXTYF7a4fv8NaDH6BrO1lzLDLQyPZSS7-3MD9MvEPDbdyj6NQcMFYeCpE1Nl6gSy8oXlRmQ70eAoV6ndQ/s1600/Moralism+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Incorrect" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYSXSJfRPtI8MQeA2m9IPGRfg9hDX4v6hmtFWNXuyjnWgECPbVeCBPqXkUPbXTYF7a4fv8NaDH6BrO1lzLDLQyPZSS7-3MD9MvEPDbdyj6NQcMFYeCpE1Nl6gSy8oXlRmQ70eAoV6ndQ/s200/Moralism+2.jpg" title="Not" width="200" /></a></div>
<h2>
But this post is about the evangelists. More importantly, it's about what evangelists are <u>not</u>.</h2>
<br />
I've done a lot of research on evangelists. I've talked with church leaders. Read a bunch of articles, books, and commentaries. I even wrote a book of my own <a href="https://amzn.to/2wWw3ux">about evangelists</a>.<br />
<br />
In doing that research I encountered ten primary ideas that are commonly held about evangelists. When each of these ideas are examined in light of Scripture, they are all exposed as contrary to the biblical role.<br />
<h2>
The 10 Common, But Incorrect, Ideas</h2>
Here's the list:<br />
<ol><h4>
<li>The Church Is The Evangelist</li>
<li>Evangelists Are The Office of the Gospel Writers</li>
<li>Evangelists Are Travelling Preachers of The Word</li>
<li>Evangelists Are Those Gifted With the Spiritual Gift of Evangelism</li>
<li>Evangelists Minister Primarily to the Lost</li>
<li>Evangelists Were Apostolic Delegates</li>
<li>Evangelists Are Church Planters or Missionaries</li>
<li>The Pastor Does The Work of an Evangelist</li>
<li>Evangelists Cannot Be Distinguished From Other Leaders</li>
<li>Evangelists Are Officers With No Defined Office</li>
</h4>
</ol>
<h4>
The Bible Gives Us Enough Information To Avoid These Mistaken Ideas</h4>
There are three passages in the Bible that speak directly about evangelists. These passages are Ephesians 4:11-16, Acts 21:8, and 2 Timothy 4:5.<br />
<br />
That's it.<br />
<br />
It may seem that such meager biblical evidence would cause problems in defining the role, purpose, ministry, and character of evangelists. The opposite is true.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCtRFFOZzw0ZEATNhBzpisZc9M9SjQ8EuW_xKouJRewC2gJ9c-1rvQweWstjUUhhwwv4hb4LmdgaClZhZdfDz8sOuI0I6iThmL5ofLYO_9NISW31-GtaSRHLN4q9xQiVrXAGEFQ9-ACY/s1600/Man+reading+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Bible" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCtRFFOZzw0ZEATNhBzpisZc9M9SjQ8EuW_xKouJRewC2gJ9c-1rvQweWstjUUhhwwv4hb4LmdgaClZhZdfDz8sOuI0I6iThmL5ofLYO_9NISW31-GtaSRHLN4q9xQiVrXAGEFQ9-ACY/s400/Man+reading+Bible.jpg" title="The Bible" width="400" /></a></div>
If we pay careful attention to these passages (and their context) we have a true wealth of information.<b> We can then allow the biblical data to renew and transform our minds, instead of simply allowing ourselves to be conformed to the cultural views.</b><br />
<h4>
So How Do These 3 Passages Refute The Commonly Held Incorrect Views?</h4>
The biblical refutation is actually short and swift for most of them.<br />
<br />
The real question is: <b>Are we willing to change our minds if we are shown to be in error?</b><br />
<br />
I hope so. If you find me to be in error, I hope you'll let me know in the comments. Be sure to explain how the biblical data better fits with your position. Please and thank you.<br />
<h2>
1. The Church, The Whole Church, and Nothing But The Church</h2>
The first inadequate view is one I have a lot of appreciation for. The sentiment is on the right track. It just needs minor modification.<br />
<br />
This is the view that the whole church is the evangelist.<br />
<br />
The idea is that the whole church, every member, exists to proclaim the glory of God.<br />
<br />
The problem with this view is not <a href="https://howellbible.org/2016/09/08/the-aim-of-religion/#more-1448" target="_blank">the aim</a>. It's the terminology.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_M4NbZ6CBZKQwRp_ds3D4G6Ly5cD3dQu5E7kRrVm93AF7WaxMobDnv9OfWgVIihmGEJvqp8OCgqY0ayISDE3kjrCgXTsLnNLZwZ533HvLEj_na1Xw42vRWpcWOaUhgALH2M36okTRIc/s1600/Pews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Church" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_M4NbZ6CBZKQwRp_ds3D4G6Ly5cD3dQu5E7kRrVm93AF7WaxMobDnv9OfWgVIihmGEJvqp8OCgqY0ayISDE3kjrCgXTsLnNLZwZ533HvLEj_na1Xw42vRWpcWOaUhgALH2M36okTRIc/s400/Pews.jpg" title="The Church" width="400" /></a></div>
Yes, the whole church exists for the glory of God. That is our purpose. This is made explicitly clear in Ephesians 1:12. Paul writes that God has made known His plan in Christ, <i>to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory</i> (Ephesians 1:12). The existence of Christians, our very being, is for the praise of His glory.<br />
<br />
But does that mean that the whole church is an evangelist?<br />
<br />
It does not.<br />
<br />
If we allow the Bible to define its own terms (which we should), then the Bible tells us in all three of the passages that evangelists are individuals, not fellowships. The work of an evangelist is the work of a person, not a congregation.<br />
<br />
Acts 21:8 tells us, <i>On the next day we left and came to Caesarea, and entering the house of <b>Philip the evangelist</b>, who was one of the seven, we stayed with him</i> (Acts 21:8, bold added).<br />
<br />
In Caesarea, Philip was <b>the evangelist</b>. Specific. Singular. The phrase that comes after - "one of the seven" - speaks about his former ministry as a deacon when he was still in Jerusalem (Acts 6). The church in Caesarea had an evangelist. His name was Philip.<br />
<br />
Likewise, Paul instructed Timothy (who was in Ephesus at the time), <i>But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, <b>do the work of an evangelist</b>, fulfill your ministry</i> (2 Timothy 4:5, bold added). Paul is writing to an individual. The "you" at the beginning of the verse is you singular. <b>Paul is not telling Timothy that he has to do the work of the whole church</b>. That would be quite a burden!<br />
<br />
Finally, Paul wrote about Christ's gift to His church in Ephesians 4:11, <i>And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and <b>some as evangelists</b>, and some as pastors and teachers</i> (Ephesians 4:11, bold added). Christ gave <i>some</i> as evangelists. Not all.<br />
<h4>
No matter how commendable the sentiment, this view is contrary to all of the biblical data.</h4>
It would be better terminology to say that the whole church exists as an <i>ambassador</i> for Christ, or a <i>witness</i> for Christ. Not an evangelist. This biblical term means something different. More specific.<br />
<h2>
2. Gospel Writers</h2>
At some point in history, the term evangelist definitely expanded to include the writers of our canonical gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). If you read commentaries and other research helps you will almost certainly come across this more than once.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36hnHOfp-RE83-NI3xM-vwBAcCGnGaWhXFffMImp_9I4c3rBV_nEJz5X3YJGU7m6ipQXbknWwMjKPnY1_rNsDdzNwVXR5EvDFjIDKRgjq7wWG7E_wIwlDGhn4fFQKBhFq9B62Ynq_Cfo/s1600/Greek+Gospel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Greek Gospel of John" border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36hnHOfp-RE83-NI3xM-vwBAcCGnGaWhXFffMImp_9I4c3rBV_nEJz5X3YJGU7m6ipQXbknWwMjKPnY1_rNsDdzNwVXR5EvDFjIDKRgjq7wWG7E_wIwlDGhn4fFQKBhFq9B62Ynq_Cfo/s400/Greek+Gospel.jpg" title="Greek Gospel of John" width="400" /></a></div>
Our interest is not in what the term has come to mean. We are primarily interested in what the biblical definition is.<br />
<br />
If you ignore the modern notions of what an evangelist is you will open yourself to misunderstanding. That would be bad.<br />
<h3>
However, if we misunderstand the biblical meaning then we open ourselves to improper leadership in the church. We open ourselves to missing out on a gift given by Jesus Himself. That's worse.</h3>
You can find many well-respected authors and commentators who refer to the Gospel writers as the evangelists. No dispute there.<br />
<br />
But let's once again consider the biblical testimony.<br />
<br />
Acts 21:8 tells us Philip was the evangelist in Caesarea.<br />
<h3>
Did Philip write one of our Gospels? No. He did not.</h3>
Paul instructed Timothy to do the work of an evangelist in 2 Timothy 4:5.<br />
<h3>
Did Timothy write one our Gospels? Nope. He sure didn't.</h3>
Therefore, no matter how many scholars use the term evangelist this way, we must admit that the Bible does not. Accordingly, this view is inadequate and should be discarded.<br />
<h2>
3. Travelling Preachers</h2>
This view is one of the most common. But majority opinion isn't always correct.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdk2umJn25zP0XQZLuBMMRf4Fm_mFNQHb729JTBIzW5NBUnTSYl4OftP_kbae4pc3VjCNDBKe4zmnxmK1YEwdCzaALgz47SHtcC9BSw96lMpjuTqfB0u5GbVd3JL3sLnrhNugas7S-jmI/s1600/Mission+Trip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Travelling Preachers" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdk2umJn25zP0XQZLuBMMRf4Fm_mFNQHb729JTBIzW5NBUnTSYl4OftP_kbae4pc3VjCNDBKe4zmnxmK1YEwdCzaALgz47SHtcC9BSw96lMpjuTqfB0u5GbVd3JL3sLnrhNugas7S-jmI/s400/Mission+Trip.jpg" title="Missions" width="400" /></a></div>
There have been many wonderful travelling preachers throughout the history of the church. There are many wonderful ministries of this type today. Often, these ministries label themselves as evangelists.<br />
<br />
<b>When critiquing this view I want to be clear: I am not critiquing travelling preachers in general.</b><br />
<br />
The disagreement is with the terminology, not the model.<br />
<br />
The Bible tells us that travelling teachers are a valid biblical ministry. Good travelling teachers are worthy of your support.<br />
<blockquote>
You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers with the truth. (3 John 1:6-8)</blockquote>
<h3>
But are these travelling teachers rightly called evangelists?</h3>
The Bible never does.<br />
<br />
When we first met Philip, he was in Jerusalem (Acts 6:5). As a result of the persecution that started after Stephen's death (Acts 7), everyone but the Apostles were scattered into Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1).<br />
<br />
We get to see some of Philip's experiences on his way to Caesarea in Acts 8. A final summation is given after he preaches to the Ethiopian eunuch: <i>But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he kept preaching the gospel to all the cities <b>until he came to Caesarea</b></i> (Acts 8:40, bold added).<br />
<br />
Philip is not doing anything special during this time. Acts 8:4 says, <i>Therefore, those who had been scattered went about preaching the word.</i> Philip, like the rest of the church, is fleeing persecution and acting as a witness and ambassador along the way.<br />
<br />
He continues doing so <b>until he came to Caesarea.</b> We don't hear anything about Philip again until Saul and his team arrive in Caesarea about twenty years later. This is what we saw in Acts 21:8 because Paul and his companions stayed with Philip in his house.<br />
<h3>
We must be clear that nothing in the text tells us that Philip did or did not travel again.</h3>
Based on what the text does say, we know that Philip was in Jerusalem. He scattered when the persecution began. He preached all the way on his way to Caesarea. And that's where we find him twenty years later.<br />
<br />
Perhaps most interesting is that the text doesn't call Philip an evangelist <i>while he is travelling</i>. It saves this term for when we find him settled in his house exercising hospitality to the travelling workers.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87F-1LwO-Yvu7TcPAQTMDnUOXUImq1ce2Wn4x-0-g6-w3_oeG8yMjdn62AreLKluQ2JLHSGRlpXSbGjcFTWvUcYmCxNnD45mXWQNi5hH7EmDUuBD7vJpTe6YyXW_IqqfJkA4AHoMqdGY/s1600/Hospitality.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Home Sweet Home" border="0" data-original-height="926" data-original-width="1600" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87F-1LwO-Yvu7TcPAQTMDnUOXUImq1ce2Wn4x-0-g6-w3_oeG8yMjdn62AreLKluQ2JLHSGRlpXSbGjcFTWvUcYmCxNnD45mXWQNi5hH7EmDUuBD7vJpTe6YyXW_IqqfJkA4AHoMqdGY/s400/Hospitality.jpg" title="Hospitality" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
Most travelling "Evangelists" require hospitality from others. Here Philip the evangelist opens his home to the travelling workers!</h3>
The typical modern idea is reversed. Instead of needing hospitality, Philip shows hospitality. Instead of relying on someone to give the evangelist temporary housing during his travels, we see the evangelist providing housing for those who are travelling.<br />
<br />
If this was the only passage, it wouldn't be enough. Taken together with 2 Timothy 4:5 the case becomes stronger.<br />
<br />
Paul instructed Timothy to do the work of an evangelist in Ephesus. Paul left Timothy in Ephesus to help correct some problems there.<br />
<br />
<i>As I urged you upon my departure for Macedonia, <b>remain on at Ephesus so that you may instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines</b></i> (1 Timothy 1:3, bold added)<br />
<h3>
How could Timothy remain at Ephesus to do his work if he was supposed to travel to <i>other</i> areas and preach?</h3>
Paul's instructions to Timothy assumes a stationary post. This was not itinerant work.<br />
<br />
When viewed together, these biblical examples show us that the travelling ministries of many brothers and sisters in Christ are not accurately termed "evangelists." <b>Travelling teachers are an important part of Christian work. But they are not what the Bible describes as evangelists.<br />
</b><br />
<h2>
4. The Spiritual Gift of Evangelism?</h2>
Many people assert that evangelism is a spiritual gift. I've taught that myself in the past. Spiritual gift tests often include evangelism.<br />
<br />
But is this assertion valid?<br />
<br />
The burden of proof is upon those claiming evangelism is a spiritual gift to support their claim biblically.<br />
<br />
You'll see verses listed. But if you read the verses carefully, you'll never find "evangelism" listed as a spiritual gift.<br />
<br />
Many commentators assert that Ephesians 4:11 says evangelism is a spiritual gift.<br />
<h3>
But read it again. No, it doesn't.</h3>
Ephesians 4:11 lists evangel<i><b>ists</b></i>, not evangel<b><i>ism</i></b>. You can't equate the two. They are different words!<br />
<br />
Some commentators insist that the persons listed in Ephesians 4:11 are spiritually gifted with the corresponding gifts.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibtAonC3c9aBNDTnw-1Y7DBFDd2BucwmI4YQ2OO-DayABYUxs2_QLgNI9q-awUDN5_kusnJoo8BNiZLtI6_cLqdztoD33GBySfn2Ay5hREhFBrASg86EgCdPpWoXRVwS4VYHF6wb3IvLY/s1600/Gifted+Leader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Gifted Leader" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibtAonC3c9aBNDTnw-1Y7DBFDd2BucwmI4YQ2OO-DayABYUxs2_QLgNI9q-awUDN5_kusnJoo8BNiZLtI6_cLqdztoD33GBySfn2Ay5hREhFBrASg86EgCdPpWoXRVwS4VYHF6wb3IvLY/s400/Gifted+Leader.jpg" title="Gifted Leader" width="400" /></a></div>
Apostles have the gift of apostleship.<br />
<br />
Prophets have the gift of prophecy.<br />
<br />
Evangelists have the gift of evangelism.<br />
<br />
Pastors have the gift of shepherding.<br />
<br />
Teachers have the gift of teaching.<br />
<br />
The problem with this assertion is that it rests on the authority of the interpreter. It may sound right, but does the Bible actually say this?<br />
<br />
You can read some of the most straightforward lists of spiritual gifts in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12. You'll find gifts of leadership, prophecy, and teaching.<br />
<h3>
But you won't find evangelism.</h3>
It's not there.<br />
<br />
Experience will show us that some people like talking about Jesus more than others. No doubt.<br />
<br />
Experience teaches us that some people lead more people to Christ than others do. No argument here.<br />
<br />
Experience proves that some people are bolder, clearer, and better suited to proclaim the gospel publicly than others. Absolutely.<br />
<br />
But none of these things indicate that the Bible teaches any such thing as a spiritual gift of evangelism. We must be careful when we begin using our experiences and opinions to define things that the Bible doesn't explicitly teach. We can get ourselves in trouble really fast if we don't proceed with caution.<br />
<br />
Caution should be exercised any time we are making assertions that have no biblical text that teaches our position clearly. Yes, it is possible to interpret that evangelists have the gift of evangelism. But is this the best interpretation?<br />
<br />
Ephesians 4:12 continues to describe the purpose of these gifted individuals that Christ has given: <i>for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ</i> (Ephesians 4:12). If their task is equipping the saints, then it seems the spiritual gifts of leadership and teaching would be adequate. These gifts are explicitly mentioned in scripture as genuine gifts.<br />
<h3>
When we have opportunity to choose between interpretations that are speculative or rest simply on the assertions of scholars and commentators OR that rest on explicit teaching in the Scriptures which do you think you should choose?</h3>
I am content to go with what I know the Bible teaches for sure instead of wading out into what seems right to me based on my own speculation or the speculations of others.<br />
<br />
The burden of proof remains upon those who want to include evangelism as a valid spiritual gift to produce one biblical text that teaches this. Every passage that can be pointed to relies upon equivocation of terms and/or relying upon assumptions of the interpreter.<br />
<br />
This isn't good enough. As a result, this view should also be discarded.<br />
<h2>
5. Ministers To The Lost?</h2>
Almost everyone would agree that the evangelists primary ministry revolves around the conversion of the lost.<br />
<br />
Almost everyone is wrong.<br />
<h3>
That's bold. I know.</h3>
The Bible teaches that the primary ministry of evangelists is actually the opposite. Look again at why Christ gave some as evangelists.<br />
<blockquote>
And He gave ... some as evangelists … for the equipping of the saints for the work of service...<br />
(Ephesians 4:11-12)</blockquote>
Jesus gave the evangelists (along with the other leaders) to equip the saints for the work of service. An equipped body will then build up the Body of Christ (which is how the verse continues).<br />
<br />
An equipped body will continue to build up the Body of Christ: <i>until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ</i> (Ephesians 4:13).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6CeKmLfWEDcYW0lwO9g2k9q-QAshFSb0JRkHwpwlVC1NxwYlcx_IyBVxRKawOFgX3RV19ZLm2XL-NDBnEnSkCCvIn02wBG-Zfgak2JZUzEKotI339GVSG0HoNn272VUxpCZwEYmJyVQ/s1600/Boots+and+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Bible and Boots" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6CeKmLfWEDcYW0lwO9g2k9q-QAshFSb0JRkHwpwlVC1NxwYlcx_IyBVxRKawOFgX3RV19ZLm2XL-NDBnEnSkCCvIn02wBG-Zfgak2JZUzEKotI339GVSG0HoNn272VUxpCZwEYmJyVQ/s400/Boots+and+Bible.jpg" title="Boots and Bible" width="400" /></a></div>
We are given a purpose. A direction. And an end goal.<br />
<br />
Evangelists, with the other leaders given by Christ, are given to equip the saints.<br />
<h3>
Redirecting the focus of evangelists away from the saints is a mistake.</h3>
An equipped body of Christ will be better suited to reach the lost than individuals could ever do. Evangelists are given to help equip the saints to be effective in their individual and collective ministry to the lost.<br />
<br />
Any definition of evangelists that redirects their primary task away from the saints should be rejected.<br />
<h2>
6. Were Evangelists Delegates of the Apostles?</h2>
This view was predominant during the Reformation.<br />
<br />
Many who hold this view believe that the evangelists died out with the apostles. If there are no apostles, they can't send delegates. Therefore, when the last of the apostles died the office and ministry of evangelists died with them.<br />
<br />
It is indisputable that the apostles sent delegates for certain tasks. Men like Timothy, Titus, and Crescens (e.g., 2 Timothy 4:10) were given responsibilities and oversight positions directly from the apostles.<br />
<br />
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<h3>
In these cases the responsibilities, duties, and oversight of the delegates were temporary.</h3>
The authority entrusted to these men seemed to be on par with the apostles own authority. It extended beyond the normal local church authority.<br />
<br />
The problem with this view is not centered on the fact that apostolic delegates existed. This cannot be disputed.<br />
<br />
The problem comes from calling these delegates evangelists.<br />
<h3>
The Bible never does. Why should we?</h3>
I've read commentators who assert that Timothy was an evangelist. I've read others that insist he was the pastor. This is why the letters written to him are considered pastoral epistles.<br />
<br />
I tend to agree with the commentators that view Timothy as neither a pastor nor an evangelist, but as an apostolic delegate. Timothy's role was temporary in his assignments. He did what Paul tasked him with. When he was done he was either available to join up with Paul again or be sent elsewhere.<br />
<br />
Part of Timothy's responsibilities in Ephesus was to do the work of an evangelist (2 Timothy 4:5). This doesn't mean that Timothy was an evangelist. Contrastingly, he was explicitly being told to do the work of an evangelist at this time and in this context.<br />
<h3>
If Timothy was an evangelist he would be doing the work of an evangelist always and everywhere.</h3>
If we rely on what the Bible tells us, instead of on what commentators assert, then there is only one man who is labeled as an evangelist. Philip in Acts 21:8.<br />
<br />
Since we know for sure that Philip was an evangelist, we can then ask the question: <b>Was Philip an apostolic delegate?</b><br />
<br />
The answer to this question is, No.<br />
<h3>
Since the one person we know for sure who was an evangelist is not recorded as being a delegate of an apostle (like Timothy, Titus, and Crescens were), then we ought to reject the view that Evangelists were delegates of the apostles.</h3>
<h2>
7. Church Planters and Missionaries</h2>
Another of the most common views is that evangelists are essentially church planters and/or missionaries.<br />
<h3>
Like with the office of Gospel Writers, the term evangelist undoubtedly took on this connotation. But is this what the biblical term means?</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MDHqBTCdelbD250uXR4PcdThUdLb8DtHFKO0g99JbJDZhspjY8V3XGHkKftVI3h2f1TGqeIB26StyNr0XigMFtFXDf6aiTC_Win5wyClHSoBT009ubiOdUWStF3sFbrtxtSGSctiR_Y/s1600/missionary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Missionary and Church Planter" border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MDHqBTCdelbD250uXR4PcdThUdLb8DtHFKO0g99JbJDZhspjY8V3XGHkKftVI3h2f1TGqeIB26StyNr0XigMFtFXDf6aiTC_Win5wyClHSoBT009ubiOdUWStF3sFbrtxtSGSctiR_Y/s400/missionary.jpg" title="Missionary and Church Planter" width="400" /></a></div>
The answer is no. It's not how the Bible describes evangelists.<br />
<br />
Let's remember Timothy's role in Ephesus. He was urged to remain there to help the church work out some issues. As Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy, the young apostolic delegate had been ministering to the believers in Ephesus.<br />
<h3>
Paul urged Timothy to do the work of an evangelist. While Timothy was in Ephesus. Where the church had already been planted.</h3>
Whatever duties Paul had in mind for Timothy, he was not telling him to plant a church in Ephesus. He was not telling Timothy to go to a place where Christ had not already been preached as a missionary.<br />
<br />
Despite its popularity, biblically speaking it is impossible that the work of an evangelist meant planting churches or preaching Christ as a missionary. No doubt church planting and missionary work are important tasks.<br />
<br />
They just aren't the tasks of biblical evangelists.<br />
<h2>
8. Pastors Do The Work of An Evangelist?</h2>
If we think Timothy was the pastor of Ephesus, then this view follows fairly naturally. Paul directly told Pastor Timothy, "Do the work of an evangelist!"<br />
<br />
But let's stop and think about this for just a minute. This view, if correct, contradicts itself. So, it's wrong even if it's right!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD15n_RG3UEpNqHfipF3Qg0saXsxX9lCJvxXDvE9-IM6W3FW9Fvame2DakZnhsX8_vNgTn7rC-bgEPjekeLP5u-r12Kd2-58B3NjqTvVwndBZdkyeutwaReFcDz0wCqPEFpMywmEnukU/s1600/PAstor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pastor" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD15n_RG3UEpNqHfipF3Qg0saXsxX9lCJvxXDvE9-IM6W3FW9Fvame2DakZnhsX8_vNgTn7rC-bgEPjekeLP5u-r12Kd2-58B3NjqTvVwndBZdkyeutwaReFcDz0wCqPEFpMywmEnukU/s400/PAstor.jpg" title="Pastor" width="400" /></a></div>
In order to accept this view we must equivocate on our terms. We must blend together things that do not naturally blend. We must admit that unnecessary words are being used and thrown around which only add confusion.<br />
<h3>
If the work of a pastor is to do the work of an evangelist, then why tell a pastor to do the work of an evangelist? Why not just tell them to do the work of a pastor?</h3>
If part of the calling of pastors is to do the work of an evangelist on an on-going basis, then why did Christ give some as evangelists and some as pastors?<br />
<h3>
If the pastors are supposed to be doing the work of the evangelists, then what are the evangelists supposed to be doing?</h3>
The results of this view are absurd.<br />
<br />
I am a pastor. I understand the burdens, blessings, joys, and struggles of the work of a pastor. <b>We do not need an extra burden upon us that is not ours to bear.</b><br />
<br />
What we need is for pastors to do the work of pastors and for evangelists to do the work of evangelists. In doing so, the church will be properly equipped and built up to the glory of God.<br />
<br />
This view, too, should be rejected as inadequate when examined biblically.<br />
<h2>
9. Evangelists Cannot Be Distinguished From Other Officers</h2>
When we read the basic job description of all the leaders listed in Ephesians 4:11, we must admit that it is kind of vague.<br />
<br />
<i>Equip the saints.</i><br />
<br />
Got it.<br />
<br />
Since the basic job description doesn't explain how each of these categories of leaders (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastor/teachers) contributes to the equipping of the saints, some conclude that their roles are blurry. Indistinguishable. Perhaps even interchangeable.<br />
<br />
Based on the vagueness of the description of duties, they propose a general or vague leadership approach. Perhaps the duties and responsibilities overlap. Leadership in a general sense is given and these leaders do what's necessary.<br />
<br />
Makes sense. Seems possible.<br />
<br />
However, if we take a step back and think about the context this view becomes harder to maintain. It can be agreed upon that the duties and responsibilities of these leaders may be vague to us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2A71TObSPk5OqnmAr2BcBVIw6e4KIwopVQ6d9kb4Qn5CB3kli38Wx1ureaoTm8Nnf-N_26LbFD_WrBKM59m8hl9ampCmFL30R2dLnog-BFhJD-419yhyphenhypheniC-yKKRFIFTxrFpflSltQufw/s1600/Stand+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Distinction is clear" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2A71TObSPk5OqnmAr2BcBVIw6e4KIwopVQ6d9kb4Qn5CB3kli38Wx1ureaoTm8Nnf-N_26LbFD_WrBKM59m8hl9ampCmFL30R2dLnog-BFhJD-419yhyphenhypheniC-yKKRFIFTxrFpflSltQufw/s400/Stand+out.jpg" title="Distinct" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
However, they don't seem vague to Paul, Timothy, or the saints in Ephesus who wrote and received these instructions.</h3>
Paul could write to Timothy that he should do the work of an evangelist and expect that Timothy understood what he meant. Paul didn't have to specify the details because Timothy had an understanding of what Paul was telling him to do already.<br />
<br />
Likewise, the saints in Ephesus knew the difference between the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. Paul didn't have to define these roles. The saints in Ephesus were familiar with them already.<br />
<br />
Our problem comes because we've drifted from the apostolic foundation. We've allowed cultural ideas to influence the biblical roles. Now, when we look back we have some trouble distinguishing the roles and figuring out how to separate and define them.<br />
<h3>
Hopefully we can agree that even if the distinctions are vague or elusive to us, that doesn't mean they cannot be defined and distinguished.</h3>
The conclusion is that these officers can be distinguished. They have different titles. They have different responsibilities. Attempting to define these in full detail is well beyond the purpose of this post. For now, we may simply conclude that the idea that evangelists cannot be distinguished from the other officers is inadequate and should be rejected.<br />
<h2>
10. Evangelists Are Officers Without An Office?</h2>
In practice, almost everyone holds to this view. Whatever view is taken about evangelists, the one thing that seems to be consistent across the board is that evangelists operate outside of the local church in the "parachurch."<br />
<br />
Evangelists may be brought in for ministry by pastors. They may be relied upon by officers of the local church and supported by the church. But they are not recognized as regular, permanent leaders in a local body.<br />
<br />
What is most interesting to me about this view is that most people who discuss leaders in the church have something to say about the apostles. They have a view on the prophets. They are passionate and descriptive about pastors and teachers.<br />
<br />
Evangelists are seemingly forgotten. Take 'em or leave 'em. Maybe they are useful from time to time. Other times, the work of the local church is not affected positively, negatively, or even neutrally by the ministry of the evangelists floating about out there in the world.<br />
<h3>
How do we justify giving an office to everyone else in Ephesians 4:11 and neglecting the evangelists?</h3>
How is it that we study church leadership and install pastors in nearly every local church but have no consideration for evangelists? How do we elevate the office of pastor to necessary for the local church and relegate evangelists to optional? Where is the justification for these interpretive decisions?<br />
<br />
We have leaders listed in the same context. For the same purpose. Leaders whose roles and importance are then treated completely differently.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lC7934rluLGvR2q6oJNfSKxqcoJIfem4kUDoFBEY3Oiu2FKEr_9cZLlmtKYM5F_3wXOA8HwoXaKpGyrCYMDwedmqKKrt6eXTF7q0xXUv96VTMGbLgjh8_LiicKmlVYXe0fty9ul5xDU/s1600/Call+Foul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Calling Foul" border="0" data-original-height="1073" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lC7934rluLGvR2q6oJNfSKxqcoJIfem4kUDoFBEY3Oiu2FKEr_9cZLlmtKYM5F_3wXOA8HwoXaKpGyrCYMDwedmqKKrt6eXTF7q0xXUv96VTMGbLgjh8_LiicKmlVYXe0fty9ul5xDU/s400/Call+Foul.jpg" title="Call Foul" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
I'm calling foul.</h3>
<br />
There is interpretation bias affecting our conclusions.<br />
<br />
<b>The conclusions we reach influence the leadership we submit to. The leadership we submit to influences the direction of our ministries. This stuff is important. We have to talk about it.</b><br />
<br />
If you read the book of Ephesians in its entirety (and you should), you'll see that the Apostle Paul states that <a href="https://howellbible.org/2017/01/18/shifting-the-foundation/#more-2426" target="_blank">the apostles and prophets are foundational</a> (with Jesus Christ Himself) to all church ministry (Ephesians 2:19-22). This means that the ministries of Jesus, the apostles, and the prophets are trans-local, or universal, in their influence.<br />
<h3>
Every church must be built on the same foundation. Regardless of location, denomination, affiliation, persuasion, or whatever else, every church is under the headship of Christ.</h3>
Christ gave the apostles and prophets for the purpose of revealing His divine will for His people. In all places. Everywhere.<br />
<br />
As an apostle, Paul received revelation directly from God to describe the leaders given to properly equip and shepherd the Body of Christ. <b>This included evangelists and pastor/teachers at the local level. For equipping the saints. Until we are all built up and attain the fullness of Christ.</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaBGX0RhL_QGIfmEcsTCbGgQgpdZ8HVmLazb60sFCZVZ_j-XIPyIgqMKg8n-cH85SltfVhaGBL2yPp6LpYpWxWr3l9rc5XFfOeJwFPplzefczjkaUgolhZJ2uUS0u8FGqWOmZ2Oo7U88/s1600/flimsy-foundation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Build on a firm foundation" border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="676" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaBGX0RhL_QGIfmEcsTCbGgQgpdZ8HVmLazb60sFCZVZ_j-XIPyIgqMKg8n-cH85SltfVhaGBL2yPp6LpYpWxWr3l9rc5XFfOeJwFPplzefczjkaUgolhZJ2uUS0u8FGqWOmZ2Oo7U88/s400/flimsy-foundation.jpg" title="Build on a firm foundation" width="400" /></a></div>
All throughout Scripture we see <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/11/two-main-tasks-in-church.html" target="_blank">two main tasks in the church</a>. The internal mission and the external mission. Both built upon the timeless, unchanging foundation.<br />
<h3>
Why wouldn't Christ give an overseer to both major tasks? Why wouldn't Jesus provide overseers for the external as well as the internal? Why would Jesus provide any gaps that may allow one or the other mission to be neglected or placed on the back-burner?</h3>
The answer is He wouldn't. And He didn't.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/p/what-is-evangelist.html" target="_blank">Jesus gave evangelists and pastor/teachers as part of the permanent, on-going oversight of the local church</a>.<br />
<h3>
To kick evangelists out of their office and into the parachurch is a sin against them and against the Body of Christ. It will negatively impact our ability to grow into the fullness of Christ. It will detract from our unity and knowledge of the Son of God. It will because Jesus gave evangelists (along with the other officers) for these purposes.</h3>
<h2>
These Common Views Of What An Evangelist Is And Does Are All Inadequate</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70acmGRWwb41AFfzS0gWFRSFfO8vrWG-B5ZJ-KOr_dhL30hKmqrVsFoF31USpDA1dHKRNQlBFGTIKVz-pAjW8dpRuQDI9DhDHKGaM0suRaP0_d8lpQ0N7Zz7AFs_j7CRMiDWLFoDL09I/s1600/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Humbly Read the Word" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70acmGRWwb41AFfzS0gWFRSFfO8vrWG-B5ZJ-KOr_dhL30hKmqrVsFoF31USpDA1dHKRNQlBFGTIKVz-pAjW8dpRuQDI9DhDHKGaM0suRaP0_d8lpQ0N7Zz7AFs_j7CRMiDWLFoDL09I/s400/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" title="Humble Yourself before God" width="400" /></a></div>
But we shouldn't lose hope. We should redeem the biblical term and role from the cultural deviation. By the grace of God, we can.<br />
<br />
If we do so, we can expect that God will honor His design and work through His leaders and Body for the purposes of His own glory. <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/04/wanted-ideal-church-model.html" target="_blank">There is an ideal church model</a>.<br />
<br />
Only then can we expect to see what God promised regarding His church in all generations:<br />
<blockquote>
<i>Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.</i><br />
(Ephesians 3:20-21)</blockquote>
Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-56207063195025883852018-05-10T12:25:00.000-04:002018-11-23T21:02:42.546-05:00How To Bring Men To Christ - A Review<a href="https://www.amazon.com/How-Bring-Men-Christ-Torrey/dp/1479421715/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1525963837&sr=8-1&keywords=r.a.+torrey+how+to+bring+men+to+christ&linkCode=li3&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=818363dd202a416dab0a55a571dae797" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1479421715&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1479421715" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<b><i><a href="https://amzn.to/2Iaj0Xr" rel="nofollow">How To Bring Men To Christ</a></i> by R.A. Torrey was recommended to me recently. I'm glad that it was. A short book and quick read. Even so, it contains a lot of powerful information.</b><br />
<br />
Some readers will take issue with some of Torrey's theological positions. However, there is much wisdom that can be gleaned in the main thrust which is bringing people to a saving knowledge of Christ through the use of God's word under the leading of the Holy Spirit.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Greatest Strengths</h4>
<h3>
1. Dependence Upon God's Word and Spirit</h3>
Torrey emphasizes from beginning to end the need for the effective witness to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit and the power of God's word. Nothing else will be effective in bringing the lost to the living Lord and Savior. The first chapter deals with certain conditions that Torrey believes are necessary for the Christian to be effective in service and witness. The final chapter discusses the controversial topic of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Regardless of whether you agree with every position Torrey takes the emphasis is clear: the Christian must yield themselves to God fully. The ministry of reconciliation is not a half-hearted ministry.<br />
<br />
<h3>
2. The Role of the Holy Spirit In Witnessing</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFiZD-qN6CPOzvl685nhSFCf4sMnYx1HfZTWeQYR__KpiiWGtE-OS835dPW-jCJ4cV9tQZDZT9ZjqpEqjeEN3LTS1wXHamO3HFVdoW5bvXg9XVvIj6u1N14rFHPZGXhxVl0AQTNPdeQA/s1600/iStock_27818458_MEDIUM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Follow the lead of the Holy Spirit" border="0" data-original-height="1385" data-original-width="1385" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFiZD-qN6CPOzvl685nhSFCf4sMnYx1HfZTWeQYR__KpiiWGtE-OS835dPW-jCJ4cV9tQZDZT9ZjqpEqjeEN3LTS1wXHamO3HFVdoW5bvXg9XVvIj6u1N14rFHPZGXhxVl0AQTNPdeQA/s400/iStock_27818458_MEDIUM.jpg" title="Follow the lead of the Holy Spirit" width="400" /></a></div>
I know that the topic of the baptism of the Holy Spirit is controversial. Whatever you may believe about this topic, Torrey's final chapter brings important scriptural observations to consider. Far from being overly emotional or charismatic, Torrey shows how Christians in the New Testament are empowered for testimony and/or service in every case of being filled with the Spirit. In our modern day, most of the controversy surrounding such discussions revolve around the ecstatic or dramatic effects that accompany such a baptism. Torrey remains close to the text instead of relying on experience or emotion. This chapter, in my opinion, was worth the purchase price alone. I have read many different treatments of this topic. I thought Torrey's handling of the topic was the best I've read in a long time.<br />
<br />
<h3>
3. Hints and Suggestions</h3>
The second to last chapter is "Hints and Suggestions." It is evident that these tips are the result of many years of faithful service in the ministry of reconciliation. Whether you are new to witnessing or have been witnessing for decades, there is something here that will edify you.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Greatest Weaknesses</h4>
<h3>
1. Seemingly Contradictory Sections</h3>
Some of Torrey's thoughts are border-line contradictory. I choose to give him the benefit of the doubt. This is a book on evangelism practice, not theology in general. Perhaps, if he took more time to elaborate on some of his statements the seeming contradictions would disappear. The clearest example that seemed to run through the entire book was how Torrey deals with those who make a profession. For those who are seemingly coming to Christ, Torrey suggests time and again to have them read God's word and believe the promises are theirs. However, he mentions in chapter 7 in dealing with a particular group of people who lack assurance or who are back-sliding:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
It is very important in using these texts to make clear what saving faith is; because many may say that they believe when they do not, in the sense of these texts, and so get a false assurance and entertain false hopes and never find deliverance.</blockquote>
<br />
Torrey seems to give with one hand what he takes from the other. Depending on your theological persuasion, you will likely take offense or issue with some of the points he makes on this matter. Taken together he gets close to a faithful biblical picture. However, the language he uses is not always qualified or as careful as I think it should be. The result is closer to contradiction than I'm sure he intended. Also unclear is how and when the Christian worker should qualify their statements to one who has made a profession of faith according to Torrey's view. The reader will have to make their own conclusions as to what is right.<br />
<br />
<h3>
2. Difficult To Implement Immediately</h3>
Those familiar with <a href="http://www.fourthyearministries.com/2017/10/share-jesus-without-fear-review.html">Bill Faye's method, <i>Share Jesus Without Fear</i></a>, may immediately notice how similar the approaches are in theory. However, Faye's method is much easier to adapt and begin using immediately than Torrey's. The reason is that Torrey is less interested in giving you a simple path through God's Word to take with everyone. Instead, relying on the lead of the Holy Spirit, he suggests different types of people you may meet and possible Scriptures that you could use in those situations. It may be overwhelming to some readers to see how many different verses Torrey recommends for his many different categories of people.<br />
<br />
<h3>
3. Easy To Read, Difficult To Study</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMCwVsFHKLAdSwSH-n-GBctwFAr0xwmwx03-q1ep6_ZT2DZbsGTfZUC19ylvPIKD5RoCiPEKSml-07V6k3tey8HvL0nQMu79n_8sdO5sGY0UDAUlRw3gUpkLg8t1cMQE-WtLYqU2T3KY/s1600/Study+your+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Study Your Bible" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMCwVsFHKLAdSwSH-n-GBctwFAr0xwmwx03-q1ep6_ZT2DZbsGTfZUC19ylvPIKD5RoCiPEKSml-07V6k3tey8HvL0nQMu79n_8sdO5sGY0UDAUlRw3gUpkLg8t1cMQE-WtLYqU2T3KY/s400/Study+your+Bible.jpg" title="Study Your Bible" width="400" /></a></div>
This weakness is related to the second. This book can be read in just a few sittings. However, to truly digest the content and allow it to inform your practice will take much more direct effort. I would have appreciated a chapter or appendix at the end that had all of the suggested verses listed out. As it stands, I will have to make my own. This will likely require a greater time commitment than reading the book in the first place. It is possible that such extra investment will make this a <i>strength</i> instead of a weakness but I include it in the weakness section because many will not take the extra time to make their own study of the material. Sometimes the hardest methods are the best ones but the difficulty of implementation can be a discouragement to some, especially those new to witnessing for Christ.<br />
<br />
Torrey attempts to alleviate this difficulty a bit by emphasizing the importance of earnestness and the effectiveness that can come from mastering just a few passages as opposed to knowing many texts but lacking earnestness and mastery in any of them. I believe he is right. Torrey makes this encouragement in his second to last chapter and may have lost some of his readers to discouragement before they ever got there.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Conclusion</h4>
I found Torrey's book to be refreshing, edifying, and sometimes challenging. For a short book it packs quite a punch. I know that the theological positions may make it a book that some criticize heavily. I suggest looking past whatever theological quibbles you may have to the substance:<br />
<br />
1. Dedicate yourself fully to the Lord's work;<br />
2. Depend upon the grace God gives and the power He provides;<br />
3. Focus on the main task of leading people to Christ, not arguing over other details, and;<br />
4. Continue in the grace of God until the end for the praise of His great name.<br />
<br />
Hopefully we can all agree that this is good and right for Christians.<br />
<br />
Torrey's short book is a worthwhile read and one that I will likely read again in the future.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-21600307382966116112018-04-30T17:45:00.001-04:002018-11-23T20:55:16.514-05:00Fullness By Design<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-Officer-Restoring-Fullness-Design/dp/1512732842/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1525123882&sr=8-1&keywords=forgotten+officer&linkCode=li3&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=2960ad280f786e06d9b40cb88bf08f48" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1512732842&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1512732842" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />My wife and I are expecting our 8th child this year. I want my children to grow to full maturity. That's not to say that I want to skip the fun things that accompany young kids. I don't want to skip any of it. As each day passes I realize how quickly these moments are gone.<br />
<br />
The march toward adulthood is inevitable. Every day, we all get older. I must be aware that my children <i>are</i> growing up, whether I like it or not.<br />
<br />
But <i>maturity</i> is not the same as <i>age</i>. It is possible to get older while never really growing up.<br />
<br />
When I say that I want my children to grow to full maturity what I mean is: I desire my children to realize their potential. I want them to grow into responsible adults.<br />
<br />
I don't want my three sons to live in my house indefinitely. They shouldn't be expecting their mother to cook and clean for them into their thirties. Part of my responsibility as a father is to steward the children God has so graciously given us. We are to raise them so that they can be delivered safely into maturity.<br />
<br />
As Christians, we have a heavenly Father who likewise desires that we grow to full maturity in Christ. Like our natural growth, spiritual maturity is not the same as spiritual age. We are not necessarily more mature because we have been Christians for a long time. To think that maturity and age are the same is to be woefully deceived.<br />
<br />
In Ephesians 5:17 the Apostle Paul writes, "So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." This is good counsel. To understand what Paul means we must understand what he has been writing through the book of Ephesians.<br />
<br />
Paul is writing about God's will that the church reach full maturity for the praise and glory of His name. Fullness comes by God's sovereign design.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqNl4lka80sd9tuF_pOmNw7RlExf6osyeFuG4nw_CNfMvBodOiCob0HzUV3rIA96fVAKEIAyZlCTvJQWyYrrPYrSr0Ax6mpLsypOqpq6-d3Ty2MIDJiJ_xsP7juti52T08a_ku3lI9Ips/s1600/Man+reading+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Read Your Bible" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqNl4lka80sd9tuF_pOmNw7RlExf6osyeFuG4nw_CNfMvBodOiCob0HzUV3rIA96fVAKEIAyZlCTvJQWyYrrPYrSr0Ax6mpLsypOqpq6-d3Ty2MIDJiJ_xsP7juti52T08a_ku3lI9Ips/s400/Man+reading+Bible.jpg" title="Reading the Bible" width="400" /></a></div>
The first chapter of Ephesians is filled with some of the deepest theology you will find anywhere. It touches on the work of the triune God in redeeming a people for Himself. It discusses the Father's plan to choose a people for Himself from before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before Him (Ephesians 1:3-4). It tells of His predetermined plan to adopt us into His family through Christ to the praise of the glory of His grace (Ephesians 1:5-6). And, it tells us that God made known to us His plan. <br />
<br />
God revealed the mystery of His will which He has purposed in Christ (Ephesians 1:9-10). We ought to pay careful attention to what God has revealed.<br />
<br />
God had a plan before He made the world to redeem a people for Himself. This is done in and through Christ. The redeemed are called to <i>be</i> for the praise of His glory (Ephesians 1:12). This means that the church - our very <i>being</i> - brings glory to God's amazing, transformative, and redemptive grace which He has so lavishly and freely bestowed on us in Christ.<br />
<br />
God made known the mystery of His will so that we would understand. When Paul states in Ephesians 5:11 that we are not to be foolish but are to understand what the will of the Lord is, it is safe to say he expects his readers to remember what he described in Ephesians 1.<br />
<br />
God has a plan. He has a means of achieving that plan. God has given grace to accomplish His goals.<br />
<br />
God has designed an administration suitable to the fullness of the times which is the summing up of all things in Christ (Ephesians 1:10). This administration points to God's gracious oversight of the process of transforming dead sinners into living saints who will <i>be</i> for the praise of God's glorious grace. This is essentially the topic of Ephesians chapter 2.<br />
<br />
Before discussing God's transformative, redemptive grace in chapter 2, Paul makes this astonishing statement:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
"And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all" (Ephesians 1:22-23).</blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlK6VTZLqkp_5eDQ4mF3uFCEoobKmVoLXo7kQmW4V0uvjoyv9QEwB0sIjzDvywMItWp47NMYMsRIB6mdlGbim8Sl59wowTjz6pdzGxTE8kTfHulIqJoIbNdkM-H5Zh93cSb_TWMnkEmQU/s1600/Pews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Church Pews" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlK6VTZLqkp_5eDQ4mF3uFCEoobKmVoLXo7kQmW4V0uvjoyv9QEwB0sIjzDvywMItWp47NMYMsRIB6mdlGbim8Sl59wowTjz6pdzGxTE8kTfHulIqJoIbNdkM-H5Zh93cSb_TWMnkEmQU/s400/Pews.jpg" title="Pews" width="400" /></a></div>
Sometimes I hear professing Christians say disparaging things about the church. Be very careful with such statements.<br />
<br />
By divine design the church is Christ's body. The church is the fullness of Him who fills all in all.<br />
<br />
Let that sink in. This is why when Jesus confronted Saul on the road to Damascus He asked him,<br />
<br />
<i>"Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting <b>Me</b>?"</i> (Acts 9:4, bold added).<br />
<br />
Saul was persecuting the church. Therefore, Saul was persecuting Jesus Himself.<br />
<br />
If what we perceive as "the church" doesn't fit this description either we are looking at the wrong thing or we are failing to walk in the grace God has given because we've decided that we have a better design for God's church. Neither situation calls for bashing Christ's church. Repentance would be a better approach.<br />
<br />
Paul's expectation of the church was extremely high.<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen" (Ephesians 3:20-21).</blockquote>
<br />
God has a plan and a design. He has made His will known. He is putting all things in subjection under Christ because it is God's will that the church be the fullness of Him who fills all in all. Therefore, Paul has no problem asserting that God's power is at work within us to bring glory to the church and Christ Jesus for all generations. Forever and ever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqFudyxz_HrBAOhFrEo5uLLAZvlzrqpqrYbrTCRyVnGdx6tN_YMrRrBDFwQjoYwgaWJq18k7RS-W3lK8tg8s140h-jAwYHXFFgMomG0ypxMSCToDmCQR8KcYTlvzAypFuesHReRTGiUo/s1600/Awesome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1586" data-original-width="1600" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqFudyxz_HrBAOhFrEo5uLLAZvlzrqpqrYbrTCRyVnGdx6tN_YMrRrBDFwQjoYwgaWJq18k7RS-W3lK8tg8s140h-jAwYHXFFgMomG0ypxMSCToDmCQR8KcYTlvzAypFuesHReRTGiUo/s200/Awesome.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
This is awesome stuff.<br />
<br />
It requires responsibility on our end. We are God's adopted children. This is why in the very next sentence Paul writes:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
"Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called" (Ephesians 4:1).</blockquote>
<br />
Paul implores the saints to understand the will of the Lord and to walk in a worthy way. To walk according to God's grace and design.<br />
<br />
It is in this line of thought that Paul describes most fully the administration that God has designed and given. By His grace God has provided for the growth of the body into the fullness of Christ.<br />
<br />
Really take a moment to wrap your mind around this.<br />
<br />
God desires for the church to be the fullness of Him who fills all in all. He entrusted Paul with a stewardship of God's grace to proclaim this design (Ephesians 3:1-10) of God's administration. The administration is given to bring about the full maturity of the body.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-477237486/worthy-psalm-68-4152018" target="_blank">Paul tells us that each individual member of the church has received grace (Eph 4:7)</a>. The risen Jesus has given officials to equip the body "until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, <i>to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ</i>" (Ephesians 4:13, emphasis added).<br />
<br />
These officers are the apostles, prophets, <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/p/what-is-evangelist.html">evangelists</a>, pastors and teachers.<br />
<br />
Fullness doesn't happen by accident. It happens by the grace of God according to the administration that God designed for this very purpose.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70acmGRWwb41AFfzS0gWFRSFfO8vrWG-B5ZJ-KOr_dhL30hKmqrVsFoF31USpDA1dHKRNQlBFGTIKVz-pAjW8dpRuQDI9DhDHKGaM0suRaP0_d8lpQ0N7Zz7AFs_j7CRMiDWLFoDL09I/s1600/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Humbly Read The Word of God" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70acmGRWwb41AFfzS0gWFRSFfO8vrWG-B5ZJ-KOr_dhL30hKmqrVsFoF31USpDA1dHKRNQlBFGTIKVz-pAjW8dpRuQDI9DhDHKGaM0suRaP0_d8lpQ0N7Zz7AFs_j7CRMiDWLFoDL09I/s400/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" title="Humble Yourself Before God's Word" width="400" /></a></div>
It happens by the body of Christ understanding the will of the Lord and submitting themselves to Christ's design to the praise of His glorious grace.<br />
<br />
Without the apostles and prophets - <a href="https://howellbible.org/2017/01/18/shifting-the-foundation/">the foundation</a> (Ephesians 2:18-3:10) - we would have no idea what God's divine will was. Thankfully, God has revealed the mystery of His will through His apostles and prophets. We have this revelation recorded in the Scriptures.<br />
<br />
Christians must submit to biblical revelation. This is where the apostles and prophets have been preserved. The book of Ephesians is a part of the apostolic foundation.<br />
<br />
If we lift our eyes from God's word and look around we see a different administration. Take a survey the body of Christ for yourself. We see many pastors and teachers who exist for the equipping of the saints in every local church.<br />
<br />
One element is conspicuously absent from God's revealed design: the evangelists. <a href="https://amzn.to/2jjoKUc" rel="nofollow">They have been forgotten</a>.<br />
<br />
Our modern idea of evangelists is not biblical. We have pushed them out into para-church ministry. We've re-defined them primarily as ministers to the lost. But the apostolic foundation says that Christ gave these officers <i>for the equipping of the church.</i> It doesn't restrict them to reaching the lost and leaving the rest of the body off the hook for the Great Commission.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiirl7jy-VXMs8FG4RKbljnq75uZyPgmv2zXPwpgQyGY36LAgS3AUg0fdEGP6cHJzjMQ7FiZ-Ovj5qaCPDyqwVYCW9eh1rDWyOvz4QNnbQFsc9YXvBBR3omJ9HoaINBKsP78vnK9-iXz0/s1600/Make+Disciples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="985" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiirl7jy-VXMs8FG4RKbljnq75uZyPgmv2zXPwpgQyGY36LAgS3AUg0fdEGP6cHJzjMQ7FiZ-Ovj5qaCPDyqwVYCW9eh1rDWyOvz4QNnbQFsc9YXvBBR3omJ9HoaINBKsP78vnK9-iXz0/s320/Make+Disciples.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://amzn.to/2rbh3CW" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The church exists to reach the lost and make disciples</a>. It's not just the evangelists.<br />
<br />
By pushing out evangelists to the fringe (at best) of the church, it is no wonder many look at "the church" today and think it falls short of Paul's lofty comments.<br />
<br />
We have strayed from God's design. We've settled for an administration that is more Roman than Christian. As a result we are walking foolishly. We are walking according to our own designs and not according to the fullness of God's revealed administration for bringing about full maturity in every member of the body of Christ.<br />
<br />
By the grace of God, we can understand what the will of the Lord is. We can walk wisely in His gracious plan according to His power which is at work within us.<br />
<br />
Are we willing to repent of walking in our own designs and walk by faith? If we will, God will do abundantly beyond all we can ask or think in our generation for the praise of His glorious grace.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-22960968663831103592018-04-25T13:23:00.000-04:002018-11-23T20:13:25.044-05:00Beautiful Feet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijfW0IQteEvqV0EgYvp4d509RpBW-XScO3Qh04606YBeSYV4GTn_4q6wx2-O_P762DUX3xjZMhvBAcuGwBkz_tvVtnq6AQBwZuHqD5iIF_wFr9NEseWobAkr234NDYs_A759JuQGkaQ74/s1600/Beautiful+Feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Walking" border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijfW0IQteEvqV0EgYvp4d509RpBW-XScO3Qh04606YBeSYV4GTn_4q6wx2-O_P762DUX3xjZMhvBAcuGwBkz_tvVtnq6AQBwZuHqD5iIF_wFr9NEseWobAkr234NDYs_A759JuQGkaQ74/s400/Beautiful+Feet.jpg" title="Walking the Path" width="400" /></a></div>
<h3>
Many stumbling blocks exist for people coming to Christ.</h3>
One of them is the idea that God's grace is unable to save some because they are too sinful.<br />
<br />
This stumbling block can exist in the mind of the person being confronted with the gospel. They may believe the words of the preacher couldn't possibly apply to them.<br />
<br />
<i>Not with their background. Not if you knew the whole story.<br />
<br />
Maybe for others. Not for me.</i><br />
<br />
This is false. God's grace is more amazing than we can fathom. It is the responsibility of Christians to declare the height, breadth, width, and depth of God's redeeming love in Christ. God is both able and willing to save all who will turn to Christ.<br />
<br />
Another stumbling block may exist in the mind of the preacher. This occurs when the Christian restricts their preaching from certain people because of their own bias. This is why Jesus taught about the Good Samaritan. God's glorious gospel and offer of salvation should be freely offered to all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CD0o5q2bAmLlC00GWhpbd8tnEvifOiZqUwpePhAN2J31Uvr7xWCfUwSHvP-35-pJs4LYmR0Gr4Pv8BfABGAtAXYwzCtF6FxAQgNafuZJgF0oYu3yWAYGaPqGsEBzoe8y2eUbOd1TCOw/s1600/Stumbling+Block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1340" data-original-width="1600" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CD0o5q2bAmLlC00GWhpbd8tnEvifOiZqUwpePhAN2J31Uvr7xWCfUwSHvP-35-pJs4LYmR0Gr4Pv8BfABGAtAXYwzCtF6FxAQgNafuZJgF0oYu3yWAYGaPqGsEBzoe8y2eUbOd1TCOw/s200/Stumbling+Block.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Even those who persecute us. Even people who hate us. Even people <i>we</i> look down on or who make us uncomfortable, angry, or vote differently than we do.<br />
<br />
Thanks be to God the Scriptures are clear:<br />
<blockquote>
that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, 'WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.' For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek [Gentile or non-Jew]; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for 'WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.' (Romans 10:9-13)</blockquote>
<br />
Who is it that can be saved from the wrath to come according to Scripture? The Scripture tells us that <i>whoever</i> will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.<br />
<br />
What is it that results in righteousness? Believing in your heart that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead.<br />
<br />
What results in salvation? Confessing this amazing truth with your mouth. The Word declares that the same Lord is Lord of all, and whoever will call on Him shall not be disappointed.<br />
<br />
Hallelujah!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nefngZ1qXRz-L0gepOxTm4saDbMUKYEC3X41OlNmBmErULk6xaHMnx20cPcui23RH2bCYmFIuzHuATpZ88aJGxZueyCeZ7_2ukRMCHvJFXJq4dglzAQoxFlLw7qrojM9sxNbkamV4nU/s1600/Question.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nefngZ1qXRz-L0gepOxTm4saDbMUKYEC3X41OlNmBmErULk6xaHMnx20cPcui23RH2bCYmFIuzHuATpZ88aJGxZueyCeZ7_2ukRMCHvJFXJq4dglzAQoxFlLw7qrojM9sxNbkamV4nU/s400/Question.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
A question for those of us who have believed: How is it that you came to know the truth? Was it by some special revelation? Doubtful. Someone declared the gospel to you so that, by the grace of God, you could turn to Christ and trust fully in Him. You had the opportunity to receive Christ because someone cared enough to tell you.<br />
<br />
Scripture continues:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, 'HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS!'" (Romans 10:14-15)</blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-riZBXFiHEKYRylAgEqOtVa0-vMkf8gHNwQ5AbAf11Foj7OV5hg_C3u-Wp61SBysxCXkLU9pC5lzqLPFLBGl7HvRKN3HvJ3kEp4auqU2mU55ZhStUa6-154Y2Td9B-7MYsuMRgtP9f9U/s1600/Two+paths.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Which way will you go?" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1255" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-riZBXFiHEKYRylAgEqOtVa0-vMkf8gHNwQ5AbAf11Foj7OV5hg_C3u-Wp61SBysxCXkLU9pC5lzqLPFLBGl7HvRKN3HvJ3kEp4auqU2mU55ZhStUa6-154Y2Td9B-7MYsuMRgtP9f9U/s400/Two+paths.jpg" title="Which path will you choose?" width="313" /></a></div>
Jesus has commissioned His followers to go (see Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; and Acts 1:8). If you are a follower of Jesus, you have been sent. Will you obey this commission? Will you proclaim His excellencies and His gospel as you go? Will your feet be considered beautiful?<br />
<br />
If you will preach, they will hear. If they hear, they can believe. If they believe, they will confess He is Lord and call on Him. And if they call on Him, they will be saved. This will all be to the praise of God's glorious grace.<br />
<br />
Lord, I pray that my feet would be called beautiful by You as I try to be faithful in bringing Your good news to those who are far from You and perishing under Your just and holy wrath. Father, glorify Your Name by redeeming a people to Yourself from every tribe, tongue, nation, and people! For Your Name's sake, amen.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-58665795610618123542018-04-19T11:00:00.000-04:002018-11-23T20:08:14.341-05:00Jesus Is Risen: So What?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3Na9KT2kx6E10j89Tbzw8g5DDNuV4v3naJZUsLvsG8ZVkeJMOt98WDY934c1ZagLXy3mf9gsY4RDNK6b61enqWCcba2WMZyZSSboEyDXvpenyTLf9XHoll_GTHxG1E3cr4gO5rTlANQ/s1600/Unified+Direction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Unified Direction" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3Na9KT2kx6E10j89Tbzw8g5DDNuV4v3naJZUsLvsG8ZVkeJMOt98WDY934c1ZagLXy3mf9gsY4RDNK6b61enqWCcba2WMZyZSSboEyDXvpenyTLf9XHoll_GTHxG1E3cr4gO5rTlANQ/s400/Unified+Direction.jpg" title="Unified Direction" width="400" /></a></div><h1>Unity is important.</h1><br />
<i><b>Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.</b></i> (Romans 15:5-6)<br />
<br />
The church is called to glorify God with one mind and one voice. Disunity is a terrible hindrance.<br />
<br />
Paul wrote to quarreling believers in Corinth. They were divided. They were putting more faith in their human leaders than in Christ. The bickering was resulting in factions.<br />
<blockquote>Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment. For I have been informed concerning you, my brethren, by Chloe's people, that there are quarrels among you. Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, "I am of Paul," and "I of Apollos," and "I of Cephas," and "I of Christ." Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? (1 Corinthians 1:10-13)</blockquote><br />
There were other problems in Corinth. Paul addressed them, too. But Paul was distressed at their lack of unity. It was hindering them from working toward their purpose.<br />
<br />
The Apostle begins to end this same letter by reminding them of the importance of the gospel:<br />
<br />
<i>Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. <b>For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received</b>, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.</i> (1 Corinthians 15:1-4, emphasis added)<br />
<br />
Paul didn't ignore the various issues and problems they were experiencing. Nevertheless, Paul points these believers to the most important truth of Scripture: the gospel. This is the truth that unifies all believers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyCnMvgvPRvYwy0nyUsLEmtk3UhRCM-MOcIHaQxQN7kOeYm4ImPDLUql1zwgAaV_OntMDI1UyEIgOKEvrrkA3E3odYzC1ey_hT6lRQN3NtfTSzYsxJwdFOMstlDrYiU7IpPu8D5-qWCE/s1600/Gospel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Gospel of Jesus Christ" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyCnMvgvPRvYwy0nyUsLEmtk3UhRCM-MOcIHaQxQN7kOeYm4ImPDLUql1zwgAaV_OntMDI1UyEIgOKEvrrkA3E3odYzC1ey_hT6lRQN3NtfTSzYsxJwdFOMstlDrYiU7IpPu8D5-qWCE/s400/Gospel.jpg" title="The Gospel" width="400" /></a></div>Paul received this message directly from the risen Lord Jesus. This glorious gospel declares that Jesus is the promised Messiah from the Scriptures who came to fulfill God's promises revealed through the Scriptures:<br />
<ol><li>That He died for our sins according to God's predetermined plan (e.g. Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Psalm 22);</li>
<li>That He was buried (e.g. Isaiah 53:9), and;</li>
<li>That He was resurrected on the third day (Isaiah 53:10; Psalm 16:10) fulfilling God's promises and demonstrating to the world that Jesus, whom we crucified, God has made both Lord and Christ (Psalm 2; Daniel 7:9-14; Acts 17:30-31, Romans 1:4).</li>
</ol><br />
This glorious truth is <b>of first importance</b>. It is the basis for unity in the church. Not just in Corinth but everywhere.<br />
<br />
Instead of fighting about lesser things, Paul encouraged these followers of Jesus to refocus their attention on the gospel. He called them to heed the implications of this truth. They were to stop debating which preacher/teacher they liked best. By focusing on the differences between Apollos, Peter, Paul, and Jesus they were failing to notice that these teachers all were united in the gospel.<br />
<br />
So what are the implications of the gospel? Jesus is risen. So what?<br />
<br />
Paul states plainly that the resurrection of Jesus demonstrates the truth of Christianity. All of Christianity - not just the parts that make us comfortable.<br />
<br />
It guarantees the reality of the coming resurrection. It promises judgment for all people. It declares with power that Jesus is the appointed King of Heaven and Earth. It proves He will reign until all of His enemies are put under His feet (1 Corinthians 15:25-27). It verifies the truth that it is only through repentance and faith that anyone is able to be saved from the wrath that is to come.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU5c9HTpKet7iQwQatB1yNlEXs_J1wXzsLQXr1NejMRnaBOeOFbpY859WxlwCN3iuRC_OUKNuM2fy2TKa2MdI67eiQYUFWFSHYizPH3Qa1yZ2zTjgYHQT5BJ98Db2-vk0qjmJ972AplGE/s1600/Ambassadors+of+reconciliation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ambassador For Christ" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU5c9HTpKet7iQwQatB1yNlEXs_J1wXzsLQXr1NejMRnaBOeOFbpY859WxlwCN3iuRC_OUKNuM2fy2TKa2MdI67eiQYUFWFSHYizPH3Qa1yZ2zTjgYHQT5BJ98Db2-vk0qjmJ972AplGE/s400/Ambassadors+of+reconciliation.jpg" title="Minister of Reconciliation" width="400" /></a></div>Think about this for a minute.<br />
<br />
Really, think about it.<br />
<br />
Is there anyone you know who is not in Christ?<br />
<br />
If so, what does this mean for them?<br />
<br />
If you are a follower of Jesus, His resurrection proves the truth of your salvation. It also proves the truth of condemnation resting upon all who do not believe.<br />
<blockquote>He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. (John 3:36)</blockquote><br />
Paul cuts straight to the heart of the matter with his application:<br />
<blockquote>Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame. (1 Corinthians 15:34)</blockquote><br />
Paul urged these believers to dwell soberly on the truth of their salvation in Christ <i>and</i> the condemnation that is upon the world. In light of this, his application is to <i>stop sinning</i>. Stop paying attention to unimportant matters. Stop bragging about yourself and your favorite teacher/leader. Stop putting your eyes on the world and the things that are fading away.<br />
<br />
Stop sinning. Seriously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrG7W9S-zI4z0sfIq9W-klsD6laoyEX1mUnoriBQrWdYb6AenlgSJDZLrLePEPnUxBBt0qMsWui6AmNMDTpm-0DaHCRMKJSCKLfQZMatU9mg0_eu_O3CpM1gYEAsjSm1BNunbvFrlJ2iw/s1600/Stop+Sinning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Stop Sinning" border="0" data-original-height="1259" data-original-width="1600" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrG7W9S-zI4z0sfIq9W-klsD6laoyEX1mUnoriBQrWdYb6AenlgSJDZLrLePEPnUxBBt0qMsWui6AmNMDTpm-0DaHCRMKJSCKLfQZMatU9mg0_eu_O3CpM1gYEAsjSm1BNunbvFrlJ2iw/s400/Stop+Sinning.jpg" title="Stop Sinning" width="400" /></a></div>But why does Paul say we need to be sober minded and stop sinning? Is it because sin is making the Corinthians unhappy or causing them to miss out on God's blessings in their personal lives? That's not what Paul says.<br />
<br />
Paul tells them exactly why they need to stop sinning. It's because <i>some have no knowledge of God</i>.<br />
<br />
Believers have received the revelation of God (1 Corinthians 15:1-2). Through hearing and believing the message we pass from death into life. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation for all who believe (Romans 1:16-19).<br />
<br />
Paul said the mere fact that there are some in Corinth who were unaware of this truth is something the church ought to be ashamed of. They should be ashamed that the world perished around them without the opportunity to hear the gospel. Why hadn't they heard? Because it is the responsibility of the church - every member - to proclaim the gospel to the world.<br />
<br />
Sadly, in Corinth, the believers were too busy arguing amongst themselves and preoccupied with their own individual pursuits to obey their Lord and Savior in proclaiming His glorious gospel to the perishing.<br />
<br />
Strong language.<br />
<br />
Do you agree with Paul?<br />
<br />
Do you think it's shameful when believers hide the gospel from the world? Do you agree that it's shameful that we who know the truth are not willing to pay the cost to bring this message to those who are lost and perishing?<br />
<br />
Do you not know that it is required of servants of Christ that we be found trustworthy in our stewardship of the gospel (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)?<br />
<br />
<b>Who do you know who has no knowledge of God?</b> How many in your city are perishing with no real idea of the gospel call to repent and trust in Christ alone?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj60Z7V7nxuMvIhfhq0W4ScABWgwjnqKEF860Tdn_sVvUIyokZTzgPqOkkw5AI84glerO6p-mv0OAsnvwtOFeWsTLR0VYjPIK45Uc0LOuLMj55oBDBSE2yvR9T7uMgwEiQmdTMJ9PdCGNk/s1600/Grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj60Z7V7nxuMvIhfhq0W4ScABWgwjnqKEF860Tdn_sVvUIyokZTzgPqOkkw5AI84glerO6p-mv0OAsnvwtOFeWsTLR0VYjPIK45Uc0LOuLMj55oBDBSE2yvR9T7uMgwEiQmdTMJ9PdCGNk/s400/Grace.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>What are you doing to put them in mind of the coming judgment and the command from the risen King for all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30-31)? How is your church leadership equipping and sending out the body of Christ to declare with one mind and one voice the gospel in your community?<br />
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If the answer is "nothing," then Paul suggests that we, too, should be ashamed.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, God is pleased in His grace to give us further opportunities to be found faithful and trustworthy with His gospel - even if we've been negligent in the past!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-477237486/worthy-psalm-68-4152018" target="_blank">God is able to use His church for the praise and glory of His name</a> (Ephesians 3:20-21). He has made us adequate for the task of proclaiming His glory and goodness to the world (2 Corinthians 3:4-6, 1 Peter 3:9-10). Therefore, let us no longer live for ourselves. Let's live for Him (Galatians 2:20) in the strength He provides knowing that He is able to accomplish what He has begun (Philippians 1:6)!<br />
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Get equipped. Obey your King. Glorify your God.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-2718630296330578942018-04-05T08:53:00.001-04:002018-11-23T19:59:16.714-05:005 Keys To Effective Witness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qV38-QSmjHKMU4qwC-SL1jbMwlJshUvwaEIAqZ9GbuCy4wfJ5hKKIwtOeU6RP-2TA8GBVspUjKEa6A8R4Hgw9G4QB2iE5sLSFSteRVMjzZBR-u2VLqRisetaE5xILLu1RGBb_zdNlXg/s1600/5+Keys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Keys to Effective Witness" border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="1600" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qV38-QSmjHKMU4qwC-SL1jbMwlJshUvwaEIAqZ9GbuCy4wfJ5hKKIwtOeU6RP-2TA8GBVspUjKEa6A8R4Hgw9G4QB2iE5sLSFSteRVMjzZBR-u2VLqRisetaE5xILLu1RGBb_zdNlXg/s400/5+Keys.jpg" title="Keys to Effective Witness" width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
Content is important. But it's not the only thing.</h2>
<div>
Some evangelistic methods are presented as if they are <u>the</u> perfect witnessing method. Some think memorizing a method and mechanically delivering the content means you have effectively witnessed.<br />
<br />
Witness throughout the New Testament demonstrates this is not accurate. There is not a cookie-cutter approach that is applied the same way every time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Content is extremely important. Without the right content our witness cannot be effective. Messing with the content of the gospel voids its power.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made void. (1 Corinthians 1:17)</blockquote>
Focusing <i>only</i> on content fails to recognize that we are not preaching to the air. We are preaching to <i>persons</i>.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some. I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it. (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)</blockquote>
I know of no biblical example where more people responded to the gospel at one time than Acts 2.<br />
<br />
What made Peter's proclamation so effective? Here are five reflections of my own. Feel free to leave your reflections in the comments.<br />
<br />
<b>Effective witness includes:</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDNjkRzdrY1ffah43_deE93bCTkBdyjGGOH-6rB9RmrCHE8vAImhovaSvVbp62UlBxdFSQptlROUaS1KwXe66xtWwGBXyvlsnK9Z5buOhsnsUyX1S4y53L0LEIrh_uto4Vh87X7PAS8E/s1600/Time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Walk in God's Timing" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDNjkRzdrY1ffah43_deE93bCTkBdyjGGOH-6rB9RmrCHE8vAImhovaSvVbp62UlBxdFSQptlROUaS1KwXe66xtWwGBXyvlsnK9Z5buOhsnsUyX1S4y53L0LEIrh_uto4Vh87X7PAS8E/s400/Time.jpg" title="Walk in God's Timing" width="400" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><b style="font-weight: bold;">Walking in God's timing. </b>Peter waited for God to open the door. Jesus commanded the disciples to wait for the power they would receive when the Holy Spirit came. They waited patiently until God delivered on His promise. They did not rush ahead and miss the opportunity God was preparing.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b style="font-weight: bold;">Going along with God's activity in the world. </b>God's preparation of the audience is clear. <i>"Now there were Jews living in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven"</i> (Acts 2:5). God had gathered this audience from every nation. The reason they were gathered was to celebrate the Jewish feast of Pentecost. Their presence in Jerusalem demonstrates the truth of what the text tells us: these were devout people. They were already primed for hearing God's Word. When God poured out the Holy Spirit on <i>this</i> day so that Peter could speak to <i>this </i>audience we should be overwhelmed with God's activity in this effective witness. God is still active in the world today. We should strive to go along with His activity. It is not enough to simply be active on our own apart from God's leading and work.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Boldness. </b>God opened the door. Peter took full advantage. He was not shy. He was bold and direct.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b>Picking relevant passages. </b>Peter's content was perfectly suited to his immediate context. Peter did not simply use his favorite text. He picked passages that explained the situation they were currently experiencing. He picked passages that directly explained the significance of the moment. We must be aware of our surroundings and our hearers. This is part of what it means to be <i>in </i>the world but not <i>of</i> it.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7SMx62NpG-v3iT_GLfPI6tlcShpB8JKs1ESjw4EB8EMTl4gFXyieseD3OFIVQPqKuXXT5frg57RCh_DjBX71rM4pa5JN-WNKMgfP9IqpxD7siHETQEpYPvb_5cVixWWsLG_iNXJPMbA/s1600/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Dedicated to the Word and to Prayer" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7SMx62NpG-v3iT_GLfPI6tlcShpB8JKs1ESjw4EB8EMTl4gFXyieseD3OFIVQPqKuXXT5frg57RCh_DjBX71rM4pa5JN-WNKMgfP9IqpxD7siHETQEpYPvb_5cVixWWsLG_iNXJPMbA/s400/Prayer+with+Bible.jpg" title="Dedicated to the Word and to Prayer" width="400" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><b style="font-weight: bold;">Dedication to the Word of God and to prayer. </b>Peter's message came on the heels of three years of personal discipleship with Jesus. It followed immediately after an intense ten day prayer meeting.<b> </b>Peter remained committed to this focus beyond Pentecost. When a situation arose in the early church that threatened this focus Peter resisted it. <i>"'But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.' The statement found approval with the whole congregation"</i> (Acts 6:4-5a). The whole congregation approved of this statement. They understood the importance of prayer and God's Word to effective witness.<b> </b></li>
</ul>
<br />
It is easy to wander off the path of effective witness. We can fall into the trap of thinking that memorizing a few verses and speaking them mechanically to everyone regardless of the situation is the ministry that God has called us to.<br />
<br />
It's not.<br />
<br />
I understand the appeal of these approaches. They lack a need for continued dedication beyond the initial investment of time in memorizing the method.<br />
<br />
Memorizing methods is easy. Dedication to serving in the ministry of reconciliation requires sacrifice. Constant growth and practice.<br />
<br />
Dedication to prayer and the Word will keep us tethered to God's will. If we ask for wisdom and opportunity God will direct our steps. He is pleased to use humble and well prepared people to accomplish His purposes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Dedication to being <i>person</i> focused will ensure that we lovingly speak the truth in understandable ways. We want people to hear us because we want them to be reconciled to God. We want this because there is rejoicing in heaven over every sinner who comes to repentance. We want this because when people are saved they magnify the glorious grace of our God and Savior.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0aOXdWMGGYBakJNG867xmJBNJ9r0NHwmwUaf8mA-rNQnSrmoJauo2wa7K3ayjemwmmea4BdS47z6sOnDZRNCds4Nrq9O62KbDD0hzFQOgqLe3RVQ2hg4XjlD9BpDgbBB2qn1U7g_a48/s1600/Boots+and+Bible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Bible and Boots" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0aOXdWMGGYBakJNG867xmJBNJ9r0NHwmwUaf8mA-rNQnSrmoJauo2wa7K3ayjemwmmea4BdS47z6sOnDZRNCds4Nrq9O62KbDD0hzFQOgqLe3RVQ2hg4XjlD9BpDgbBB2qn1U7g_a48/s400/Boots+and+Bible.jpg" title="Boots and Bible" width="400" /></a></div>
Dedication to boldness will keep us alert. We cannot wait for dead sinners to ask us how to be saved. The crowd asked Peter what they must do only <i>after</i> he boldly proclaimed Christ to them. They responded to Peter's boldness. Peter did not wait for them to open the door because God had already shown him that the door was open.<br />
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Dedication to faithfulness to biblical content ensures that we are bringing the word of life; not an eloquent speech which lacks the power of God for salvation. We can't tickle their ears or simply tell them the parts of the gospel that they are comfortable with.<br />
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Are you willing to do what is necessary to prepare yourself to be an effective witness for Christ?Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-87084195245336357572018-02-08T10:20:00.000-05:002018-11-23T19:44:40.501-05:00Today's Gospel: Authentic or Synthetic? - A Review<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Todays-Gospel-Authentic-Walter-Chantry/dp/0851510272/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1518101277&sr=8-1&keywords=today's+gospel+authentic+or+synthetic&linkCode=li3&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=a0dc7c5fe240ec0bcc3f2f6eb7515ecd" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0851510272&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0851510272" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><b>I am always looking for good resources on the gospel. I've read many books on the topic. I can recommend only a few.</b><br />
<br />
A trusted friend and dedicated follower of Christ recently gave me a copy of Walter Chantry's little book <a href="http://amzn.to/2nJ4LAU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Today's Gospel: Authentic or Synthetic?</a> which I had the good pleasure of reading this week.<br />
<br />
<h4>Greatest Strength</h4>This book is short. Less than one hundred pages. Just by looking at it I would have assumed that it would be unlikely to pack much of a punch.<br />
<br />
I was wrong.<br />
<br />
In most cases, a short book on the gospel will be disappointingly shallow. For many studies on a massive topic, brevity is their greatest weakness. For this particular book, I believe the length is perhaps its greatest asset.<br />
<br />
Chantry ably outlines the problems of modern gospel preaching and evangelism. Although "modern" to him meant in the late 1960's and early 1970's, the problems he outlines are still running wild today.<br />
<br />
Each problem is diagnosed scripturally and the biblical remedy is presented. It is not enough simply to point out problems with no path forward. Chantry not only exposes and rebukes error but exhorts in right doctrine and practice.<br />
<br />
While I personally would have enjoyed more discussion in each chapter, the short length left me hungry to both read the Scriptures more and to boldly and compassionately go into all the world and proclaim the glorious truth of the gospel to every creature.<br />
<br />
<h4>Greatest Weakness</h4>The major thrust of the book I thought was excellent. It edifies, encourages, rebukes, and admonishes. As far as the main content and purpose is concerned I don't have any substantive critique.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJODgzdTjBYqgaMMylT6BNhIUqn8c2m_Mt32K-Z5DbbPdu0gVeWAck368HiDEjpOCyKbEF2m_IEyy1PvpNZKcXN8pgVV0YLR_yXC1313VQalbueZ7Ku0Em4wHRnkj6xI6dy7HKwv8AB4/s1600/Gospel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Gospel of Jesus Christ" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJODgzdTjBYqgaMMylT6BNhIUqn8c2m_Mt32K-Z5DbbPdu0gVeWAck368HiDEjpOCyKbEF2m_IEyy1PvpNZKcXN8pgVV0YLR_yXC1313VQalbueZ7Ku0Em4wHRnkj6xI6dy7HKwv8AB4/s400/Gospel.jpg" title="The Gospel" width="400" /></a></div>My only real issue is in the way Chantry discusses evangelists. On the one hand, Chantry is dealing with a system of doing church that makes use of travelling teachers who preach revival-style messages and travel from local church to local church. When critiquing the message and methods of such ministries his terminology is certainly appropriate. That's what his culture (and ours, too) calls evangelists.<br />
<br />
Yet, Chantry <i>also</i> uses the term "evangelist" to refer simply to the Christian who is proclaiming the gospel. Although it may be unnoticeable to some, those familiar with the purpose for this blog will understand why such usage distracts me a little bit.<br />
<br />
Had Chantry substituted the term "ambassadors for Christ" or simply "Christians" in his descriptions for those sharing the gospel I would have had very little problem. Likewise, I would personally go a step further to say that the travelling revivalist preacher model so common today is<a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2018/05/10-things-evangelist-is-not.html"> not what the Bible calls "evangelists."</a> That shouldn't be surprising to anyone who knows me, seeing as I have written a <a href="http://amzn.to/2C4PMW6" rel="nofollow">book on that very topic</a>.<br />
<br />
Since the purpose of Chantry's book is not to define the nature and role of evangelists but the content and method of preaching the gospel, admittedly this critique is a bit nit-picky.<br />
<br />
<h4>Conclusion</h4>This is a book I highly recommend every Christian to read. It is even more important for preachers and teachers who are tasked with equipping others to faithfully bring our Lord's gospel to the world in His name and power.<br />
<br />
The book itself is inexpensive to purchase. It will not take much time to read, either. A worthy investment of both time and resources.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-11336725039972631382018-01-25T10:43:00.001-05:002020-04-08T09:07:19.437-04:00Lift Up The Son, Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ATd7tNEmLEynNKCCX_VkR3JRSh-V-q5cttG3wEEG9IHO4IlitXsGNK5ak8hHHODu1BQxWuSs5eJxVrIHySU27ZyY_oejgbh86Z6deg4D_r8R-K_4_meE3IupZo9R6w5N4ENjJR2LJhE/s1600/Incense.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Priest" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ATd7tNEmLEynNKCCX_VkR3JRSh-V-q5cttG3wEEG9IHO4IlitXsGNK5ak8hHHODu1BQxWuSs5eJxVrIHySU27ZyY_oejgbh86Z6deg4D_r8R-K_4_meE3IupZo9R6w5N4ENjJR2LJhE/s400/Incense.jpg" title="Priest" width="266" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.<br />
(Romans 15:4)</b></div>
<br />
(If you missed Part 1, you can read it <a href="http://www.fourthyearministries.com/2018/01/lift-up-son-part-1.html">here</a>.)<br />
<br />
The Apostle Paul quoted a verse from Psalm 69 before making his comment in Romans 15:4. When he speaks of whatever was written before he means what we have recorded in the Old Testament. He simply called them the Scriptures.<br />
<br />
God inspired the Hebrew Scriptures, our Old Testament. Paul said they were written for the instruction of New Testament believers. Through perseverance and encouragement in the Scriptures we can have hope. The Old Testament is not supposed to be ignored by Christians.<br />
<br />
As we apply this to our task of lifting up the Son, that in and through Christ our Father may be glorified, we encounter a word of caution.<br />
<br />
It is easy to agree on the surface that the church ought to talk about Jesus. That's a given. But are we aware that not everyone means the same thing when they say Jesus? We don't all have the same ideas about just who this Jesus is.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2012/08/roman-catholicism-part-1.html">Roman Catholics</a>, Protestants, <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2014/06/questions-about-jesus.html">Jehovah's Witnesses</a>, Mormons, <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2012/02/christians-and-sabbath.html">Seventh Day Adventists</a>, agnostics and atheists all know the name "Jesus." They all mean something different when they use the term, however.<br />
<br />
Same symbol. Different meaning.<br />
<br />
Jesus used the Old Testament imagery of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness to explain His own earthly ministry. Jesus came to be lifted up. Jesus came to die. Jesus came so that all who believe on Him can be saved through Him.<br />
<br />
The serpent being lifted up in the wilderness was a picture of salvation by the grace of God through faith.<br />
<br />
The bronze serpent didn't save the Israelites. Moses didn't save them. God's grace did. When they believed God's word through Moses and looked to the object God provided, He gave them grace to save them from their predicament.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnbNb4D0N2Zb8XaXtD9v8SgqXPRe_c2JxmqwjEj8cvIfPLmhgy7Wd4t0uSxnyHvRfteyH05m_SLdPB0FZ4yeGUtSFHkqGWm8CCqbf8nKZJpuQKVwNN5VCmCx9Xk29jiUYyntHdRYERrQ/s1600/Grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Ephesians 2:8" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnbNb4D0N2Zb8XaXtD9v8SgqXPRe_c2JxmqwjEj8cvIfPLmhgy7Wd4t0uSxnyHvRfteyH05m_SLdPB0FZ4yeGUtSFHkqGWm8CCqbf8nKZJpuQKVwNN5VCmCx9Xk29jiUYyntHdRYERrQ/s400/Grace.jpg" title="Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ" width="400" /></a></div>
Salvation being by grace through faith has been a common theme throughout all of Scripture. Beginning to end. The Apostle Paul teaches this clearly in Romans 4. Galatians 3, too. In Romans 4 Paul uses both Abraham (pre-Law) and King David (Law) to demonstrate that both understood salvation was by grace through faith. Not works. Never by works. Always by grace through faith.<br />
<br />
In the book of Colossians Paul writes:<br />
<blockquote>
<b>Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day-- things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ.<br />
(Colossians 2:16-17)</b></blockquote>
<br />
The Old pointed toward the fulfillment in the New. It was the shadow of the substance that was to come. Jesus is the substance.<br />
<br />
So, what does this have to do with the serpent in the wilderness?<br />
<br />
The Israelites did the same thing we do today. They clung to the shadow. They began to worship the object and the symbol, not the God who gave them the object and the symbol.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8vF1Ff1U8UY4xE0v7H4wQfBWSi1rxOdIW9IPCD0NWV2ZIAyuyt8YzqOg1KCyXkSYwThlAd5TlYqWky-50apHLTqgdyrBsgsvq_76mmijYmZQCITvfHRwdPxjArNkxgtEDeesOHJ8_Fo/s1600/Bronze+Serpent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1573" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8vF1Ff1U8UY4xE0v7H4wQfBWSi1rxOdIW9IPCD0NWV2ZIAyuyt8YzqOg1KCyXkSYwThlAd5TlYqWky-50apHLTqgdyrBsgsvq_76mmijYmZQCITvfHRwdPxjArNkxgtEDeesOHJ8_Fo/s400/Bronze+Serpent.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
God commanded Moses to lift up the serpent in the wilderness. It was a symbol that had greater significance. When people believed, they were trusting in the grace of God operating through their faith in Him.<br />
<br />
But then, they got off course.<br />
<br />
We read the following account reporting events about 700 years after Moses lifted up the bronze serpent in the wilderness:<br />
<br />
<b><i>Now it came about in the third year of Hoshea, the son of Elah king of Israel, that Hezekiah the son of Ahaz king of Judah became king. He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem; and his mother's name was Abi the daughter of Zechariah. He did right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father David had done. He removed the high places and broke down the sacred pillars and cut down the Asherah. <u>He also broke in pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for until those days the sons of Israel burned incense to it; and it was called Nehushtan.</u></i> (2 Kings 18:1-4, underline added)</b><br />
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The sons of Israel had taken they symbol and infused it with new significance. They began to worship the object and not the God whom the object pointed to. For 700 years they burned incense to this idol.<br />
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This was recorded for our instruction. It is an encouragement that we not stumble in the same ways they did.<br />
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We may immediately think this only applies to other people. Take a minute and seriously reflect on who or what you think about when you think of Jesus. (I'll wait.)<br />
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Many of our contemporary songs, media, and language use the symbols of the cross, the blood, the baby in the manger, etc. Rightly understood, this is good. Poorly understood, we can begin worshipping the symbol(s) and not God Himself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY17i5Cdeow81wC4vyq_ZnQqXxSKEWYDPj_BQhr6czdfVkMyU8-0D1LAsvQdlPP01_CetsKHWLvjM1MS90CnQaY4sCWxpCmPv0Pag0L-vJRJXS8GxBSWeRCvYWiWpCJz3NCCQUkbSzjxs/s1600/Cross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Cross" border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY17i5Cdeow81wC4vyq_ZnQqXxSKEWYDPj_BQhr6czdfVkMyU8-0D1LAsvQdlPP01_CetsKHWLvjM1MS90CnQaY4sCWxpCmPv0Pag0L-vJRJXS8GxBSWeRCvYWiWpCJz3NCCQUkbSzjxs/s400/Cross.jpg" title="The Cross" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>Don't mistake the symbols and the objects for the Person they point to. We don't worship the cross but the Messiah who died upon it and rose again on our behalf. We don't worship the Scriptures but the God whom the Scriptures reveal.</b><br />
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As a culture, we celebrate certain aspects of Christ's ministry. But what does the Scripture say?<br />
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Jesus is not a baby. He was born, yes, but He grew up. Jesus is not a rabbi walking along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, either. He was. But He was crucified. Buried. Now, He's risen.<br />
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These aspects of Christ's ministry are real. They are genuine. But the humiliation of Christ has passed. Now, Jesus is risen. He is glorified and exalted. Christ has taken His seat at the right hand of God the Father where He reigns in glory. We have a partner website dedicated to <a href="https://www.theexaltedchrist.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Exalted Christ</a>. I encourage you to check it out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5MwCVMhkjbjGo1Yb2706Yo_nN8eKnQh2h1OM5qBwTB2uA7jfw-JWftBnySaaJbOW6CRm4xml2Z4Vl7YinJ4N5Xvt5MnjIReggVa-LRO-e5Zc-XWXlA-CM9l76_0cJ-AU5RQh3vnospQ/s1600/faith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Faith in Jesus" border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="1600" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5MwCVMhkjbjGo1Yb2706Yo_nN8eKnQh2h1OM5qBwTB2uA7jfw-JWftBnySaaJbOW6CRm4xml2Z4Vl7YinJ4N5Xvt5MnjIReggVa-LRO-e5Zc-XWXlA-CM9l76_0cJ-AU5RQh3vnospQ/s400/faith.jpg" title="Faith in Christ" width="400" /></a></div>
It is not enough to be led to the cross. We must be led to the Messiah who died for our sins and rose for our justification. It is not enough to sing about the baby in the manger. We must fall before the King of Glory who entered into heaven after rising from the dead.<br />
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The glorified Jesus is the one who will return to gather His church. The exalted Christ is the one who will return to crush His adversaries under His feet.<br />
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Is this who we are lifting up? This is who the Father lifted up.<br />
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<i><b>So when they had come together, they were asking Him, saying, "Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?" He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." And after He had said these things, <u>He was lifted up while they were looking on</u>, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. They also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? <u>This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.</u>"</b></i> (Acts 1:6-11)<br />
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God has given us symbols which point to Him. The symbols are valuable when rightly understood and used. They become idolatry when we forget the Person they point us to.<br />
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We don't get to pick which parts of God's revelation we cling to and ignore the rest. We don't get to pick the version of Jesus that we like best, either.<br />
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Jesus is who He is. He is not who we imagine Him to be.<br />
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As we lift up the Son, to the glory of God the Father, we must be cautioned to not lift up our version of Jesus. We are called to lift up the Son. He is glorious, exalted, and magnificent. It is in and through Him alone that the grace of God is available to all who believe.<br />
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In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.<br />
(Ephesians 1:7-8)</blockquote>
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Praise God for His glorious grace so freely and lavishly given through His Son, Jesus the Christ! Live to lift up the Son with your words and your life.<br />
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He is worthy.Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356673368207341414.post-19375996579732406462018-01-23T11:25:00.000-05:002018-11-23T16:05:13.021-05:00Lift Up The Son, Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1oBGDEfBfDpezmE87KCvfyJBQ82jTmF6lINbGk7bQE5KzEuS75ZPqPaPWR1HgpDC1r0fPr8DdN3rQ0g4-_3Ye3LmGhyeWUM5gyO7mPfjnQndz_USoiYJdtvRa-WwzVpI6MGbOdDqfOQ/s1600/Bronze+Serpent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="As Moses Lifted Up the Serpent, so must the Son of Man be" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1573" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1oBGDEfBfDpezmE87KCvfyJBQ82jTmF6lINbGk7bQE5KzEuS75ZPqPaPWR1HgpDC1r0fPr8DdN3rQ0g4-_3Ye3LmGhyeWUM5gyO7mPfjnQndz_USoiYJdtvRa-WwzVpI6MGbOdDqfOQ/s640/Bronze+Serpent.jpg" title="Lift up the Son" width="630" /></a></div>
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<b>"As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life."</b></div>
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<b>(John 3:14-15)</b></div>
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There is a difference between outreach and evangelism. Outreach can take many different forms. It can be service. It can be advertising. Outreach can (and should) contain evangelism. But it doesn't always.<br />
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Sometimes Christians fall into the trap of preaching ourselves. Preaching our churches. Preaching our favorite doctrines, moral battles, pressing burdens, or our pet programs.<br />
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To be sure, there is a time and a place for all of that.<br />
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But Christians must also remember the counsel of Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles:<br />
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<b>For we do not preach ourselves but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bond-servants for Jesus' sake. (2 Corinthians 4:5)</b></blockquote>
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We do not preach ourselves. We preach Christ <a href="https://www.fourthyearministries.com/2016/08/preaching-jesus-as-the-christ.html">Jesus as Lord</a>. We present ourselves as servants of others for Jesus' sake. Our service to them can take many forms. Primarily we serve them by declaring to them the truth that salvation is found in no one else other than Jesus. That's why we don't preach ourselves. That's why we preach Christ Jesus as Lord.<br />
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Paul is only teaching what Jesus taught before. John's Gospel traces an important theological theme from the beginning of Christ's earthly ministry to the end.<br />
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<b>"As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life."</b> <b>(John 3:14-15)</b><br />
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<b>So Jesus said, "When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me. And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him." As He spoke these things, many came to believe in Him. (John 8:28-30)</b><br />
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<b>"And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself." But He was saying this to indicate the kind of death by which He was to die. The crowd then answered Him, "We have heard out of the Law that the Christ is to remain forever; and how can You say, 'The Son of Man must be lifted up'? Who is this Son of Man?" (John 12:32-34)</b></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tuynLOVenAKkaDl-03kqrPwcBHdwWY1DZgdZO43SSzKZollw7NGoS9YC98MZajKtNLP6quJ8tqfcFS8C-7y5qce3ftec1tPzNVxKsXanINzvvnfpW4RwFlV6eKvIKvXYil4-8wco_KY/s1600/Jesus+Crucified.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Son of Man was lifted up" border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tuynLOVenAKkaDl-03kqrPwcBHdwWY1DZgdZO43SSzKZollw7NGoS9YC98MZajKtNLP6quJ8tqfcFS8C-7y5qce3ftec1tPzNVxKsXanINzvvnfpW4RwFlV6eKvIKvXYil4-8wco_KY/s400/Jesus+Crucified.jpg" title="The Son of Man was lifted up" width="400" /></a></div>
Jesus came to be lifted up. This language illustrates the death that Jesus came to die. Jesus chose the imagery of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness to vividly depict that His death on the cross would be for the salvation of all who look to Him and believe.<br />
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You can (and should) read the whole account in Numbers 21:1-9.<br />
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In these short verses we see a picture of divine judgment and deliverance. Judgment is upon the people for their sin against God. God in His graciousness and lovingkindness presents to them a possibility for redemption. The means are odd. Look to the object of your deliverance. Find salvation by trusting in what God has said is the remedy.<br />
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All who believed God were delivered.<br />
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All who did not believe perished in the desert.<br />
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Jesus chose this imagery. Paul counseled believers to live in accordance with this truth. God has ordained the foolishness of preaching to be the means by which He saves people from the judgment they deserve.<br />
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Moses could have argued with God that there were many more sensible plans to deal with the problem of fiery serpents biting people than forming a bronze serpent and lifting it up on a standard. Today, we come up with all sorts of things (other than lifting up the Son) that seem more reasonable to deal with the brokenness around us.<br />
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Our strategies may make sense to us. They may be reasonable. But woe be unto us if we fail to honor our God by lifting up the Son!<br />
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<b>For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. (1 Corinthians 1:21-24)</b></blockquote>
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Take Action</h3>
To be equipped to preach the gospel fully, faithfully, boldly, compassionately, and lovingly we must be saturated in the truth of God's word. Read, read, and read God's Word. All of it. Not just the parts you like or are most comfortable with.<br />
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There are also two excellent resources I can recommend for you to grow in your ability to communicate the gospel and lift up the Son:<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Gospels-Power-Message-Recovering-Gospel/dp/1601781954/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1516724058&sr=1-2&keywords=paul+washer+gospel&linkCode=li2&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=060d6d8ea17046097d4281466518c7a0" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1601781954&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20" /></a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/What-Gospel-9Marks-Greg-Gilbert/dp/1433515008/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1516723988&sr=8-1&keywords=what+is+the+gospel+greg+gilbert&linkCode=li2&tag=fourthyear0c-20&linkId=111b2fa466aaee52497a322523d5f32a" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1433515008&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=fourthyear0c-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&l=li2&o=1&a=1433515008" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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Let the church lift up the Son that all may glory in our great and compassionate God who sent His Son into the world to reconcile sinners unto Himself!<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=fourthyear0c-20&l=li2&o=1&a=1601781954" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />Joe K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16735112087369130619noreply@blogger.com0