An interview with author Adam McHugh of "Introverts in the Church"
For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2Co 4:6 ESV)
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Book - Introverts In The Church
Found on Reformation 21
I plan on checking this book out. I didn't know anyone else could have related to this issue.
The author makes this comment that I understand completely.
Is there an assumption that people who tend to be quiet and alone are sad?
“In many cases, yes. Many extroverts assume that introverts need to be constantly 'drawn out,' and that if we are alone, we are just waiting for someone to come over and chat us up, because we are languishing in self-pity and isolation. But in truth, we may be relishing our solitude and savoring our times of reflection. Some of my most joyful times come in a quiet moment of thought or prayer. One of the hallmarks of introverts is that we find energy from solitude, and that even though we may enjoy social interaction, those experiences drain us. We need to be restored into shape through time alone. So, even though people may assume I’m sad and lonely when I’m alone, I’m actually gaining energy during that time, not losing it. Extroverts wilt through too much time alone, but introverts are lifted by it.”
Introverts in the church
Posted by Sean LucasShareThisAs a confirmed INTJ (that's Myers-Briggs personality speak for introvert, intuitive, thinking, judgment), I've struggled at time with my personality. For example, my wife loves to entertain large groups of people at our home; I prefer to have one other couple over for the evening. I find that I don't do well in large group events; I much prefer having lunch with someone where we can have a conversation. I find myself drained after a full day with people (like Sunday) and need a day following such a busy time to recharge. One week of vacation doesn't help me much; I find that two or three weeks back-to-back enables me to recharge.
At first, I thought that this was just my own quirkiness. After spending some time reading on personality types, I found that I was perfectly normal (well, that's debatable) or at least that I have lots of company. In an extroverted world and church and married to an extroverted spouse, there are simply personality differences that are like being left-handed in a right-handed world; not wrong, just different. The challenge becomes learning how to manage myself in the light of how God made me and in view of the calling God has given me.
That is where Adam McHugh's book, Introverts in the Church: Finding our Place in an Extroverted Culture, is quite helpful
Thursday, January 28, 2010
As Iron Sharpens Iron- By Mike T.
I am definitely experiencing the depths of despair. A long 11 hour work day and a dreary cold wintery day have worked their affects upon my soul. I know that the place to turn is to the arms of my Father, but sometimes it's hard to even go where there can be comfort and a balm for the weary spirit. The heart can ache without one even knowing why. It can be difficult to even open up to prayer. I know that Christ is there when I feel alone. That is the most important relationship that I know of. I can fully say that I know that experience of intimacy with Christ. At times though what I miss is the care of brothers and sisters. I know I am part of a family in Christ but this is where my faith is least able to find confirmation. I feel neither needed nor able to find experience the fellowship that the Bible speaks of.
The Psalms speak of the effect that one friend can have upon another. Neither is sharpened without contact and with contact both become sharper. That is the plan that God has for his children, that we would mutually sharpen and encourage each other in growth and maturity.
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
(Pro 27:17 ESV)
"As to the importance of the children of God opening their hearts to each other, especially when they are getting in a cold state, or are under the power of a certain sin, or are in especial difficulty; I know from my own experience how often the snare of the devil has been broken when under the power of sin; how often the heart has been comforted when nigh to be overwhelmed; how often advice, and great perplexity, has been obtained, - by opening my heart to a brother in whom I had confidence. We are children of the same family, and ought therefore to be helpers one of another."
George Muller
George Muller Foundation
And Colossians describes how those in God's family should behave. The Word of Christ should find a home among God's people and they should find a common bond there that drives them to teach, admonish, grow in wisdom, sing and rejoice and experience thankfulness of heart. This helps us reflect the image of God which glorifies Him.
"Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all. Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
(Col 3:11-17 ESV)
Aloneness can lead to loneliness. God's preventative for loneliness is intimacy - meaningful, open, sharing relationships with one another. In Christ we have the capacity for the fulfiling sense of belonging which comes from intimate fellowship with God and with other believers.
Neil T. Anderson
Freedom in Christ Ministries
I feel alone because it feels that I have no family in the spiritual sense. My brothers and sisters seem far off and I feel to be an outcast. Oh to know and experience the joy of having and giving as God intended within this family He has bought with His blood. To see the sparks fly and to watch as God hones his people to his image by bringing them together as they share in His Grace.
The Psalms speak of the effect that one friend can have upon another. Neither is sharpened without contact and with contact both become sharper. That is the plan that God has for his children, that we would mutually sharpen and encourage each other in growth and maturity.
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
(Pro 27:17 ESV)
"As to the importance of the children of God opening their hearts to each other, especially when they are getting in a cold state, or are under the power of a certain sin, or are in especial difficulty; I know from my own experience how often the snare of the devil has been broken when under the power of sin; how often the heart has been comforted when nigh to be overwhelmed; how often advice, and great perplexity, has been obtained, - by opening my heart to a brother in whom I had confidence. We are children of the same family, and ought therefore to be helpers one of another."
George Muller
George Muller Foundation
And Colossians describes how those in God's family should behave. The Word of Christ should find a home among God's people and they should find a common bond there that drives them to teach, admonish, grow in wisdom, sing and rejoice and experience thankfulness of heart. This helps us reflect the image of God which glorifies Him.
"Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all. Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
(Col 3:11-17 ESV)
Aloneness can lead to loneliness. God's preventative for loneliness is intimacy - meaningful, open, sharing relationships with one another. In Christ we have the capacity for the fulfiling sense of belonging which comes from intimate fellowship with God and with other believers.
Neil T. Anderson
Freedom in Christ Ministries
I feel alone because it feels that I have no family in the spiritual sense. My brothers and sisters seem far off and I feel to be an outcast. Oh to know and experience the joy of having and giving as God intended within this family He has bought with His blood. To see the sparks fly and to watch as God hones his people to his image by bringing them together as they share in His Grace.
How to Meditate On God's Word
How To Meditate On God’s Word
Written by Stephen Altrogge
Topics: Bible reading
The word ‘meditation’ is a pretty cool word these days. Everybody is in to meditation. A lot of productivity websites say that when you feel burned out it’s really helpful to take a ‘meditation break’. Recently on the Oprah Winfrey Show (yeah, yeah I was watching Oprah) a guy named Dr. Oz (no relation to the wizard) said that meditation can significantly lengthen your life. Meditation isn’t just for Tibetan monks wearing burlap robes that chafe their armpits. No, everybody loves meditation
Read the rest
Written by Stephen Altrogge
Topics: Bible reading
The word ‘meditation’ is a pretty cool word these days. Everybody is in to meditation. A lot of productivity websites say that when you feel burned out it’s really helpful to take a ‘meditation break’. Recently on the Oprah Winfrey Show (yeah, yeah I was watching Oprah) a guy named Dr. Oz (no relation to the wizard) said that meditation can significantly lengthen your life. Meditation isn’t just for Tibetan monks wearing burlap robes that chafe their armpits. No, everybody loves meditation
Read the rest
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Wrong Reasons To Love the Church
Posted on Pure Church
Wrong Reasons to Love the Church
From Josh Harris:
•Don’t love the church because of what it does for you. Because sooner or later it won’t do enough.
•Don’t love the church because of a leader. Because human leaders are fallible and will let you down.
•Don’t love the church because of a program or a building or activities because all those things get old.
•Don’t love the church because of a certain group of friends because friendships change and people move.
Love the church because of who shed his blood to obtain the church. Love the church because of who the church belongs to. Love the church because of who the church worships. Love the church because you love Jesus Christ and his glory. Love the church because Jesus is worthy and faithful and true. Love the church because Jesus loves the church.
Wrong Reasons to Love the Church
From Josh Harris:
•Don’t love the church because of what it does for you. Because sooner or later it won’t do enough.
•Don’t love the church because of a leader. Because human leaders are fallible and will let you down.
•Don’t love the church because of a program or a building or activities because all those things get old.
•Don’t love the church because of a certain group of friends because friendships change and people move.
Love the church because of who shed his blood to obtain the church. Love the church because of who the church belongs to. Love the church because of who the church worships. Love the church because you love Jesus Christ and his glory. Love the church because Jesus is worthy and faithful and true. Love the church because Jesus loves the church.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The Christian Life Is Not A Private Affair - Mike T.
I am a loner by nature. I have always been shy and reserved. Social interaction for me is actually not easy. It is just part of my make up of who I am. As I have been doing this study on the church I have begun to recognize the importance of fellowship within the body of believers, more specifically within a local church. The Bible makes it so clear that we were designed by God to need one another. In the past I have always been content to accept living on the fringes of the church fellowship. My relative shyness makes it hard for me to interact and relate with others. It takes a long time for me to get to know them. As such I developed a theology that allowed me to only get involved where I have been confortable. I grew in Christ through private worship and devotion. Rarely did I want to be involved in Sunday School or other activities if it involved meeting and interacting with others. I am finding this increasing more difficult. I knew the benefits and blessings of the church family and longed for them, but I knew not how to overcome my social anxieties. Now I pray to God that He will enable me to more freely partake of the gracious blessings that exist to those who are adopted into His family. To serve others and help others grow in Christ and to build up and support the Body that proclaims this precious Gospel.
For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
(Rom 12:4-17 ESV)
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1Pe 2:9 ESV)
"The Christian life is not just our own private affair. If we have been born again into God's family, not only has he become our Father but every other Christian believer in the world, whatever his nation or denomination, has become our brother or sister in Christ. But it is no good supposing that membership of the universal Church of Christ is enough; we must belong to some local branch of it. Every Christian's place is in a local church, sharing in its worship, its fellowship, and its witness."
John R. W. Stott
John Stott Ministries
For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
(Rom 12:4-17 ESV)
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1Pe 2:9 ESV)
"The Christian life is not just our own private affair. If we have been born again into God's family, not only has he become our Father but every other Christian believer in the world, whatever his nation or denomination, has become our brother or sister in Christ. But it is no good supposing that membership of the universal Church of Christ is enough; we must belong to some local branch of it. Every Christian's place is in a local church, sharing in its worship, its fellowship, and its witness."
John R. W. Stott
John Stott Ministries
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
"Super Sunday" - by Mike T.
Ever tried to get seats for a hot commodity like a college or pro football game? To gain access you often need to know someone with some inside pull. Same thing might be true for a seat at a concert by the latest superstar. It can be next to impossible to get access to the event unless you have an inside connection. You simply don’t have any hope of getting near the stage or the stadium. No amount of effort on your part or money alone can score a ticket to such an event. It takes the aid of someone who has access to offer their help if you are to ever get inside and be present for the event. When a friend comes through on your behalf and you get tickets then you can hardly wait for the day to come. You will be on the 50 yard line for watching the Super Bowl or in the artist’s circle only a few feet from your favorite performer. You look forward with excitement. You mark the days off on your calendar.
And yet if you are a Christian do you look with such eagerness towards the Sunday morning worship time?
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
(Heb 10:19-25 ESV)
Hebrews reminds us that we gather together as a church each week able to gain access to God the Father. It is a great privilege made possible through what Christ has done in the Gospel and His priestly ministry on our behalf. We owe no small debt of gratitude for what He has done in this way. We could never gain access to God. Because of Christ we are granted fellowship with the Creator of the universe, the Almighty King and Ruler of All. Such an audience with God was impossible if it were not for Jesus Christ seeking and procuring and paying the price to obtain it. Through the finished work of Christ on the cross we can come into God’s presence.
Do you look forward to Sunday morning with awe, anticipation, with joy? Do you recognize the blessing of gathering in the Lord’s presence? Does the priestly work of Christ on your behalf cause you to respond in worship? Are you rejoicing that God has made a way into His presence? Are you filled with the desire to proclaim the mercies of God or to sing of his majesty? Or do you simply go through the motions, mechanically and casually? Let you heart respond to this Gospel, this grace, this Savior and be moved to WORSHIP. You can not draw near to Him on your own. You need access through a mediator. God has provided a way that we may come to Him and be refreshed and glorify (reflect) our Creator.
But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven. At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." This phrase, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of things that are shaken--that is, things that have been made--in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.
(Heb 12:22-29 ESV)
As the church gathers together here on earth it reflects the great communion of saints called for all eternity. It is a manifestation of the entire span of the generations of the people of God. The worship draws us near to Him, it is a festive occasion, a representation of all those who will one day meet in heaven. Let us be grateful we are a part of a kingdom that can not be shaken and let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.
And yet if you are a Christian do you look with such eagerness towards the Sunday morning worship time?
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
(Heb 10:19-25 ESV)
Hebrews reminds us that we gather together as a church each week able to gain access to God the Father. It is a great privilege made possible through what Christ has done in the Gospel and His priestly ministry on our behalf. We owe no small debt of gratitude for what He has done in this way. We could never gain access to God. Because of Christ we are granted fellowship with the Creator of the universe, the Almighty King and Ruler of All. Such an audience with God was impossible if it were not for Jesus Christ seeking and procuring and paying the price to obtain it. Through the finished work of Christ on the cross we can come into God’s presence.
Do you look forward to Sunday morning with awe, anticipation, with joy? Do you recognize the blessing of gathering in the Lord’s presence? Does the priestly work of Christ on your behalf cause you to respond in worship? Are you rejoicing that God has made a way into His presence? Are you filled with the desire to proclaim the mercies of God or to sing of his majesty? Or do you simply go through the motions, mechanically and casually? Let you heart respond to this Gospel, this grace, this Savior and be moved to WORSHIP. You can not draw near to Him on your own. You need access through a mediator. God has provided a way that we may come to Him and be refreshed and glorify (reflect) our Creator.
But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven. At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." This phrase, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of things that are shaken--that is, things that have been made--in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.
(Heb 12:22-29 ESV)
As the church gathers together here on earth it reflects the great communion of saints called for all eternity. It is a manifestation of the entire span of the generations of the people of God. The worship draws us near to Him, it is a festive occasion, a representation of all those who will one day meet in heaven. Let us be grateful we are a part of a kingdom that can not be shaken and let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Reasons to go to church
Some go to church to take a walk; some go there to laugh and talk.
Some go there to meet a friend; some go there their time to spend.
Some go there to meet a lover; some go there a fault to cover.
Some go there for speculation; some go there for observation.
Some go there to doze and nod; the wise go there to worship God. - Charles Spurgeon
Some go there to meet a friend; some go there their time to spend.
Some go there to meet a lover; some go there a fault to cover.
Some go there for speculation; some go there for observation.
Some go there to doze and nod; the wise go there to worship God. - Charles Spurgeon
Friday, January 15, 2010
Jeff Allen on Underwear
Sometimes it's ok to take a break and simply laugh. God made us with a sense of humor. Enjoy.
Tim Hawkins - Things you don't say to your wife (simply funny)
I will probably be in trouble for this one. Oh well. I couldn't resist a little break from the studies on the church to simply have a chuckle.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Does Your Church Look Like This?
From Thabiti Anyabwile's blog 'Pure Church' five related articles on how mere the church was and yet so full of power.
Does Your Church Look Like This?
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Does Your Church Look Like This?
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The Mereness of Church: Her Singing
From Pure Church another excellent article The Mereness of Church: Her Singing
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The Mereness of Church: Its Mission
From Pure Church I found this article on a subject that has been near and dear to my heart of late. I continue to be concerned and pray for today's church. The Mereness of Church: Its Mission
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Posted using ShareThis
Monday, January 11, 2010
He Was No Fool
One of my favorite missionary biographies is the story of Jim Elliot, Pete Fleming, Ed McCully, Nate Saint, and Roger Youderian who were martyred in Ecuador, killed by the Wadoni Indians (then known as the Auca Indians). January 8th was the 58th anniversary of this incident. The story of how the Auca (Wuaorani) indians later responded to the Gospel is wonderful demonstration of God's power. The stories by both Elisabeth Elliot and Steve Saint are compelling and marvelously inspirational reads. If you want to read a riveting historical account of a true missionary story these books and the videos based upon them will definitely bless you. Pick them up at your favorite book store or look for them at your public library.
You may want to read:
Through Gates of Splendor - by Elisabeth Elliot (the widow of Jim Elliot) or Beyond Gates of Splendor by Steve Saint (the son of Nate Saint) or The End of The Spear by Steve Saint.
More about Jim Elliot can be found in this post from Justin Taylor- He Was No Fool
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Sunday, January 10, 2010
Quote of the day
Since God gives grace and strength
through fellowship, without fellowship you will be a spiritual
weakling, fantasizing in private about your spiritual prowess, but
powerless when it really counts.” (Donald Whitney - Spiritual Disciplines Within The Church p. 153).
through fellowship, without fellowship you will be a spiritual
weakling, fantasizing in private about your spiritual prowess, but
powerless when it really counts.” (Donald Whitney - Spiritual Disciplines Within The Church p. 153).
Friday, January 8, 2010
A Good Mystery- By Mike T.
I love a good mystery. A good writer will craft a story that cleverly shares little by little the pieces of a puzzle and brief glimpses of some hidden truth. They keep you seeking more clues and guessing till the end when the truth is finally revealed. They finally tie together all of the fragments that by themselves could only lead to speculation and guessing and a partial deduction of the actual truth. In the end the mystery is revealed and it all makes perfect sense.
In a similar vain the Old Testament presented a mystery. God revealed Himself through the Old Testament prophets. But in some ways a carefully crafted story was being presented and brief glimpses and foreshadows laid the foundation for what one day would be fully explained. In the New Testament what could not be fully understood is fully tied together. The mystery is revealed and makes perfect sense.
It is the answer to this great mystery that works its way out in the pages of the Bible that the church exists to tell. There is a message that it is charged to deliver, to preserve and hold dear. Paul takes this message seriously. In Colosians he states that God assigned him to be a steward of this truth. He struggled and toiled with all his energy for this very message.
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.
(Col 1:24-29 ESV)
I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
(1Ti 3:14-16 ESV)
At the center of this message is how Jesus Christ makes it possible for God's people to be presented mature, holy and godly. It is here that the church often fails to recognize and proclaim what is most basic and important. We must remember that godliness is only possible for sinful people through the intervention of God through the Cross. Why is so much of what we proclaim to the world have nothing to do with this message? We have a great truth. The mystery has been revealed and all of the pieces fit together. There is no other means that the church can present people that will be mature and holy. It all goes back to what God has done for us on our behalf in Christ on the cross of calvary. A living God has worked out a great plan through all of eternity and established the church to be a pillar and buttress of the truth. Simply put that means to support and hold up and bear the load and weight of the gospel. We must make sure that our message to the world begins and ends in this great mystery. Then we will begin to see people changed and respond to the Gospel.
In a similar vain the Old Testament presented a mystery. God revealed Himself through the Old Testament prophets. But in some ways a carefully crafted story was being presented and brief glimpses and foreshadows laid the foundation for what one day would be fully explained. In the New Testament what could not be fully understood is fully tied together. The mystery is revealed and makes perfect sense.
It is the answer to this great mystery that works its way out in the pages of the Bible that the church exists to tell. There is a message that it is charged to deliver, to preserve and hold dear. Paul takes this message seriously. In Colosians he states that God assigned him to be a steward of this truth. He struggled and toiled with all his energy for this very message.
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.
(Col 1:24-29 ESV)
I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
(1Ti 3:14-16 ESV)
At the center of this message is how Jesus Christ makes it possible for God's people to be presented mature, holy and godly. It is here that the church often fails to recognize and proclaim what is most basic and important. We must remember that godliness is only possible for sinful people through the intervention of God through the Cross. Why is so much of what we proclaim to the world have nothing to do with this message? We have a great truth. The mystery has been revealed and all of the pieces fit together. There is no other means that the church can present people that will be mature and holy. It all goes back to what God has done for us on our behalf in Christ on the cross of calvary. A living God has worked out a great plan through all of eternity and established the church to be a pillar and buttress of the truth. Simply put that means to support and hold up and bear the load and weight of the gospel. We must make sure that our message to the world begins and ends in this great mystery. Then we will begin to see people changed and respond to the Gospel.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Family of God and Prayer
This week I have witnessed God working first hand to answer prayer. In my own life I have seen a prayer answered in an unexpected way as God clearly opened up a door that had been closed for a long while. Today at church a young man gave testimony to the power of the Gospel to give us strength during trials. God never walks away from us even when we try to walk away from Him. Jesus Christ still changes lives and the Gospel still turns sinners from sin.
As I have been reflecting on the church this week the concept of the church as the household of God kept appearing in my studies. The great and marvelous fact that God has adopted us into His marvelous family with Jesus Christ as the head and we his sons and daughters. The church is indeed a family and like a family must care for and support one another. When one hurts, all hurt. When one rejoices, all rejoice. Today we have rejoiced together celebrating the blessing of a young man who has returned to his family. The church is a family. Let us continue to pray for one another. God hears the prayers of his children and answers them. Praise God!!!!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
The Church's Great Message - By Mike T.
I have been blessed today with a study of the Church that has brought to light many common themes that appear in Scripture. Some of what I learned today is:
* Christ established the church with His blood. The church is His Bride and Treasure.
* The Church is the assembly of the Living God where He is present.
* The Church is the household of God.
* The Church is charged with preserving and proclaiming the Gospel.
* God has placed us in this family. He has chosen and adopted us as sons and daughters to an inheritance in Christ.
* God is present and we meet Him in the church.
* Christ is the head, builder, foundation and sustainer of the Church.
* The Church is to proclaim the truth of God that is the Gospel which is the Treasure of the Church.
* The Church calles the people of God to holiness.
The theme that I want to commend to you today is the church's message as found in scripture. 1 Peter reminds us that the church is responsible to 'proclaim the excellencies of him who called us out of darkness." That is Jesus Christ.
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1Pe 2:9 ESV)
Some other New Testament verses with a similar theme include Eph 3:10, Col 1:24-29 and 1 Tim 3:14-16. All these verses emphasize that the church has a unique and special truth that no other institution can offer. This truth, this message, this Gospel that the church proclaims and witnesses to is that by which we are saved and become the assembly of the LIVING GOD.
so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. (Eph 3:10 ESV)
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me. (Col 1:24-29 ESV)
I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
(1Ti 3:14-16 ESV)
Take some time to study the message of the church proclaimed in these and other New Testament verses. Then begin to look at the other themes that were found at the top of this post.
* Christ established the church with His blood. The church is His Bride and Treasure.
* The Church is the assembly of the Living God where He is present.
* The Church is the household of God.
* The Church is charged with preserving and proclaiming the Gospel.
* God has placed us in this family. He has chosen and adopted us as sons and daughters to an inheritance in Christ.
* God is present and we meet Him in the church.
* Christ is the head, builder, foundation and sustainer of the Church.
* The Church is to proclaim the truth of God that is the Gospel which is the Treasure of the Church.
* The Church calles the people of God to holiness.
The theme that I want to commend to you today is the church's message as found in scripture. 1 Peter reminds us that the church is responsible to 'proclaim the excellencies of him who called us out of darkness." That is Jesus Christ.
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1Pe 2:9 ESV)
Some other New Testament verses with a similar theme include Eph 3:10, Col 1:24-29 and 1 Tim 3:14-16. All these verses emphasize that the church has a unique and special truth that no other institution can offer. This truth, this message, this Gospel that the church proclaims and witnesses to is that by which we are saved and become the assembly of the LIVING GOD.
so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. (Eph 3:10 ESV)
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me. (Col 1:24-29 ESV)
I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
(1Ti 3:14-16 ESV)
Take some time to study the message of the church proclaimed in these and other New Testament verses. Then begin to look at the other themes that were found at the top of this post.
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