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Jesus set clear goals for his followers. He told them to go, make disciples, and teach them to obey. Even as he first called his disciples, he told them he would make them fishers of men. The message they were sent out with was that Christ’s kingdom had come. We are to continue this work. What an incredible calling that God would choose to use us to further the gospel message among those who do not believe! How can I be on mission for Jesus? What does that entail?
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“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
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Modern Christianity is filled with the message that salvation is meant to change us from the inside. That can lead to the idea that the entire point of our relationship with Christ is to make us better people. While we should become better due to the presence of the Holy Spirit, the ultimate goal of our redemption is to glorify God. Our lives should revolve around and be devoted to serving the Lord. If we become better people but it doesn’t impact anyone for the gospel, have we accomplished our mission? Am I focused on personal growth at the expense of glorifying God?
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“The people I formed for myself will declare my praise” – Isaiah 43:21
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There is a frequently misquoted statement by Francis of Assissi that says,”Preach the gospel, and when necessary, use words.” There is no evidence that he said this, and no evidence that this is a true statement at all. We like to think that people will see us being good and just know why without us talking about it. This is not a great plan. Even if people see us doing good works or displaying good behaviors, who is to say what they will attribute this to? There are plenty of “good” people that do nice things and are generally happy that do not know Christ. If we want our lives to glorify God, we need to tell people why we do good. We need to be in the practice of talking about God and his goodness all the time. How can I talk to my friends and neighbors about Christ?
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“I did not hide your righteousness in my heart; I spoke about your faithfulness and salvation; I did not conceal your constant love and truth from the great assembly.” – Psalm 40:10
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For Further Study:
Read Matthew 10. Jesus sent his disciples out into the world to display the power of God.
For Prayer:
Pray for Steve and Sharon Entwistle as they prepare to leave for Africa.