Thursday, September 30, 2010

challenges of the Church

Isaiah 9-10, Romans 10

I listened to a sermon series by David Jeremiah last Friday on my drive back to the flatland, and I was reminded of how brief our remaining time might be before Christ returns.  Considering Jesus's commission to make disciples of all nations, it seems to me that we have some big challenges of efficiently and effectively communicating the Gospel of Jesus Christ and facilitating growth in faith among: (1) people who have never heard the Gospel of Jesus, (2) people who think they have heard the Gospel of Jesus but have really heard a warped or perverted "gospel" (e.g., most of the people in the US that call themselves "christians"), and (3) people among other major religions (e.g., Muslims, Mormons, Hindus, Buddhists, etc.).

Rom 10:9 If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11 As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." 12 Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. 13 For "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." 14 But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? 15And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!"

Heavenly Father, please use me to share the Gospel, truth, light, hope, love, faith, and life of Jesus Christ with everyone around me so that people will experience your mercy and grace and the abundant life that Jesus promises.  Lord, please grow my faith, and help me be a disciple maker.  I pray in the name of Jesus Christ.  Amen.

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