To be a bugler, using a lifeless instrument, to strengthen the whole church (Romans 10:14-17, 1 Cor 14:6-12)

 A dream more than 10 years old is giving birth. From Money, the power of God's word and dreams, I was reminded that some dreams matter and know when they occur. 

Meditating on 1 Cor 12-14, Ephesians 4, I'm seeing how beginning with the end in mind is better than just doing something. There is a thread I'm seeing throughout the scriptures:

But how can people call for help if they don’t know who to trust? And how can they know who to trust if they haven’t heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? And how is anyone going to tell them, unless someone is sent to do it? That’s why Scripture exclaims, A sight to take your breath away! Grand processions of people telling all the good things of God! But not everybody is ready for this, ready to see and hear and act. Isaiah asked what we all ask at one time or another: “Does anyone care, God? Is anyone listening and believing a word of it?” The point is: Before you trust, you have to listen. But unless Christ’s Word is preached, there’s nothing to listen to. Romans 10:14-17 MSG (The Message)

Knowing if someone has not heard the Bible involves identifying a lack of familiarity with core biblical figures, stories, and teachings, often stemming from a lack of exposure to preaching or scripture. According to Romans 10:14, faith comes by hearing the gospel, meaning those who have not heard will not have believed or know the message of salvation, Romans 10:14-17

Dear brothers and sisters, if I should come to you speaking in an unknown language, how would that help you? But if I bring you a revelation or some special knowledge or prophecy or teaching, that will be helpful. Even lifeless instruments like the flute or the harp must play the notes clearly, or no one will recognize the melody. And if the bugler doesn’t sound a clear call, how will the soldiers know they are being called to battle?

It’s the same for you. If you speak to people in words they don’t understand, how will they know what you are saying? You might as well be talking into empty space.

There are many different languages in the world, and every language has meaning. But if I don’t understand a language, I will be a foreigner to someone who speaks it, and the one who speaks it will be a foreigner to me. And the same is true for you. Since you are so eager to have the special abilities the Spirit gives, seek those that will strengthen the whole church. 

So anyone who speaks in tongues should pray also for the ability to interpret what has been said. - 1 Cor 14:6-13

Here are ways to identify if someone has not heard the Bible:

• Lack of Knowledge: They may be unfamiliar with key figures like Jesus Christ, Moses, or common bible stories.
• Absence of Faith/Preaching: The primary marker is that they have not had the message of the Gospel preached or explained to them
• Rhetorical Markers: As described in Romans 10:14-17, someone who has not heard is generally someone to whom no one has been sent to preach.
• Cultural Context: In some cases, people may have heard snippets of stories but do not understand their origin or significance. 

While natural revelation (nature/conscience) exists, it is distinct from hearing the specific message of Christ.

https://www.bsfinternational.org/supporting-the-church/

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Community Before Saul: Acts 1-8 as a Revival Pattern

Enjoying the BSF Nehemiah Study and thinking about the sequence of revival from Nehemiah 9 and the reality that Sometimes we're Saul, sometimes we're Ananias (Acts 9)

"The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ." and  "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future." - 1 Corinthians 12:12, Ephesians 4:4

By the time Saul appears on the road to Damascus, the Jerusalem church had already lived through a compressed revival sequence.

Stage 1-2: Gathering and Humility (Acts 1:12-14). After the Ascension, the disciples returned and "all met together and were constantly united in prayer." Mary, the brothers of Jesus, all the women — a gathered, waiting, humbled community.

Stage 3: Hearing the Word (Acts 2:1-4, 14-36). At Pentecost, Peter stood and preached. The community did not manufacture the moment; the Word broke in. Peter's sermon is structured around Old Testament recital — exactly the "remember God's faithfulness" move from Nehemiah 9:7-39.

Stage 4: Confession (Acts 2:37). "The people were cut to the heart and said, 'Brothers, what should we do?'" This is group confession as response to proclaimed Word. The exact mechanism Nehemiah 9:2-3 follows.

Stage 5-6: Remembering Faithfulness and Acknowledging Righteousness (Acts 2:38-40). Peter grounds the call to repentance in what God has done and promised. The appeal is theological before it is emotional.

Stage 7: Crying Out for Mercy (Acts 4:23-31). After Peter and John are threatened, the church gathers and prays, "O Sovereign Lord, creator of heaven and earth..." They cry out. The place shakes. This is corporate intercession in extremity. (God defines victory by persistent faith and obedience)

Stage 8: Worship Through Witness (Acts 4:33, 5:12-16). The apostles testify with power. Signs and wonders follow. The community's life becomes its worship.

Stage 9: Renewed Obedience Under Cost (Acts 5:29, 8:1-4). "We must obey God rather than men." Then persecution scatters them and "the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went." Obedience costs everything and spreads further.

Saul watched Stephen die in the middle of this (Acts 7:58). The community's revival pattern was visible to him before he was confronted on the road.

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Acts 9: Saul's Personal Revival Sequence

Saul is the perfect case study in what happens when a person is rendered completely helpless by God's intervening grace. The nine stages compress into a three-day crisis.

Stage 1 — Gather before God (involuntary): "A light from heaven suddenly shone down around him" (9:3). God initiates. Saul does not come to God; God comes to Saul.

Stage 2 — Humble yourself (forced): "He fell to the ground" (9:4). The proud Pharisee is on his face in the dirt. For the helpless, humility is not achieved but imposed by grace.

Stage 3 — Hear the Word: "A voice said to him, 'Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?'" (9:4). The first thing God does is speak. Even here, revival comes through Word.

Stage 4 — Confess honestly: In Acts 22:10, the fuller account includes: "What should I do, Lord?" That question is confession in disguise. It is the abandonment of the self-directed life.

Stage 5-6 — Three days of helplessness (9:9): Blind, fasting, no food or water. In the darkness, Saul has nothing but what he knows of God's character and the words he just heard. This is the "remember and acknowledge" stage, done alone and in the dark. (Three Days, recurring theme in the Bible for changing your heart)

Stage 7 — Cry out for mercy: The vision of Ananias (9:12) suggests Saul was already praying before Ananias arrived. The helpless man cried out, and God moved Ananias.

Stage 8 — Ananias as the Able One (9:10-17): Here your framing is theologically rich. Ananias models the "able" person's role in revival. He received clear instruction ("the Lord said to him"), obeyed despite fear, came with physical touch and brotherly address ("Brother Saul"), and served as the instrument of healing and filling. The able person enables the helpless person to complete the sequence they could not complete alone.

Stage 9 — Immediate renewed obedience (9:18-20): "Immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, 'He is indeed the Son of God!'" Repentance that does not produce obedience is not repentance.

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Other Biblical Patterns That Confirm This Sequence

Joel 2:12-17 is the most direct prophetic parallel. God calls: "Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Then: "Gather the people... Let the priests weep and plead..." The sequence moves from individual return to communal gathering to priestly intercession to the cry: "Spare your people, Lord."

2 Chronicles 7:14 is the compressed formula: humble, pray, seek, turn. Each verb implies the stages around it. Humility assumes gathering. Seeking implies hearing. Turning is renewed obedience.

Psalm 51 is David's personal revival moving through the exact sequence: honest confession (v.3-4), acknowledgment of God's righteousness (v.4), cry for mercy and cleansing (v.7-9), the request for a new heart (v.10-12), and the vow of worship and proclamation as obedience (v.13-15).

Jonah 3 shows a pagan city moving through it collectively: the word comes (stage 3), the king decrees humility and fasting (stage 2), "everyone must turn from their evil ways" (stage 4), "who knows? Perhaps God will change his mind" (stage 7, mercy). God relents. Revival happens outside Israel through the same structure.

Luke 15 (Prodigal Son) maps the individual arc: far country (exile), "he came to his senses" (Word breaks through internally), "I will go home and say... I am no longer worthy" (confession, humility), the father runs (God's faithful initiative), the embrace (mercy), the robe and ring (worship and restoration), the feast (renewed life together). (Gospel-centered holiness, Jesus elevates repentance (Luke 15:7)

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The Helpless/Able Theology Running Through All of This

The Saul-Ananias pairing is not unique. It is a repeated pattern in Acts and Scripture:

• Acts 3: The lame man at the gate cannot rise on his own. Peter and John, "able," speak and reach down. The helpless man leaps.
• Acts 10: Cornelius is devout but incomplete. He cannot reach the gospel alone. Peter, "able," is sent. But Peter also needs the vision — he is helpless in his prejudice until God corrects him.
• Acts 16: The Philippian jailer is undone by an earthquake. Paul and Silas, though chained, are spiritually "able." They speak. He is restored. (Money, the power of God's word and dreams)

The theological point beneath all of this is 2 Corinthians 12:9: "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." The helpless are not outside the revival pattern; they are often its clearest demonstration. Ananias doesn't replace Saul's revival sequence; he enables it to reach completion.

The able person's role is not to perform revival for the helpless but to be, as Ananias was, a clear-instructed, obedient instrument who comes, touches, speaks the Word, and steps back. The Lord does the rest.

This is the structure of the body in 1 Corinthians 12 those who can carry must carry those who cannot, not so the weaker are excluded from the process, but so the whole body arrives at the same destination together.

Paul is not primarily writing about spiritual gifts as individual achievements. He is writing about corporate interdependence as the design of God. The gifts exist not to distinguish members from one another but to bind them to one another in mutual necessity. The chapter's logic moves in three acts: one Spirit, many members (v.1-11), one body, many parts (v.12-26), and the specific assignment of roles in the body (v.27-31). Every movement tightens the argument toward the same conclusion — no member completes the body's mission alone, and no member is dispensable to it.

This is the theological ground on which the Saul-Ananias pattern stands.

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Am I giving my time, treasure, and talent for God's Glory?

For several years I've had on my heart to serve in greater capacity at Bible Study Fellowship. I've been growing my network with leaders in HQ supporting the mission as a lay leader for 19 years. I've been a volunteer developer and tester for their international platform BsfOnline.org where our goal is to Eradicate Spiritual/Bible study Dead Zones. We are doing this by enabling native language BSF groups in 46 languages to-date and creating Online Leaders meetings that correspond with Saturday mornings in Americas, Africa/Europe, Middle East, Asia and Pacific Islands as well as other times outside traditional BSF leaders meetings. 

On January 14, I got to meet with HQ staff and 100 other leaders to talk about Leadership training. Hollie Roberts gathered our ideas for developing a new path for Online Leaders Meetings and I saw the outcome in our week long Leaders Summit June 2-6. I heard Hollie and Tad both share about a 10 fold increase in IT output and applied for volunteer developer role before I left the Summit. Talking with several leaders in the organization I understand the difficult nature of mobilizing 65k lay leaders and supporting them with Training and Technology. I'm a firm believer that information at the right time, inspires confidence and commitment and enables frictionless implementation. There is nothing stopping BSF from being the most accessible Bible study on the planet.  

What draws me to this organization is they encourage a full meal of God's Word every day. Not a Bible verse and some reflections but whole chapters, themes and cross references that provide context. The structure is called a "four-fold approach", 1) study independently and with family daily, 2) come together with others to discuss and grow in application, 3) listen to a lay person expand the text via lecture, then 4) read college level commentary. What makes this work is that  we come together next week and start with what we learned and applied from the previous week. They model dependence on God by not not asking for resources but prayerfully acknowledging where God is leading, supplying People and Resources to accomplish His purposes. 

We have a saying in BSF. It's heart work, not home work. True generosity flows from transformation, not transaction. Scripture calls us to give as stewards, not owners, offering our time, treasure, and talent as acts of worship to the One who owns it all.

Here are 10 questions I expanded on from Christian Leadership Alliance to assess whether my ministry efforts follow God’s Word:

• Example: Are you leading by example as a transformed giver? (Acts 20:35, 2 Corinthians 9:7, 1 Chr 29:3; Luke 6:40)
• Ownership: Do you acknowledge that God owns it all? (1 Chr 29:14), That we were bought with a price more precious than money? (1 Corinthians 6:20, 1 Peter 1:18-19), That we now worship God with our whole lives? (Romans 12:1-4, Galatians 2:20)
• Heart: Are you growing givers’ hearts to be rich toward God? (Luke 12:20-21,Matthew 6:19-21), How much is enough to be confident that the Lord provides? (Matthew 6:25-34, James 5:1-3)
• Perspective: Do you remember this earth is not our home? (Philippians 3:20-21, Hebrews 11:13–16, Hebrews 11:24–27, Hebrews 12:22–24,28)
• Language: Do your words reflect biblical stewardship, not worldly ownership? (Genesis 1:26-28, 1 Peter 4:7-11, Luke 12:48)
• Worship: Is giving framed as an act of worship to God? (Romans 12:1, Galatians 2:20; Phil 4:17)
• Purpose: Do you teach that giving is a tool, test, and testimony? (Luke 16:1-9)
• Faith: Do you trust the Holy Spirit to stir hearts not pressure or persuasion? (1 Chr 29:9; 2 Cor 9:7)
• Unity: Are you cooperating with other ministries, not competing?
• Trust: Do you truly believe God will supply all your needs? (Phil 4:19)

When we align with God’s ways, giving becomes joyful, abundant, and eternal in impact.

The ultimate goal? To reach the day when we say, “Give no more there’s enough!” Exodus 36:6-7 notes when the people were restrained from bringing anymore, “because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.”

Together, let’s build what only God can bless

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Personal theme for year, "no group member left behind"

"May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us - yes, establish the work of our hands." Psalm 90:17

Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring glory to God. Romans 15:7

My friend Bill has a personal theme for the year. That every leader feels cared for. My theme is no group member left behind.

My plan is to focus training on creating a group culture of hospitality. To be accommodating to receive people where they are at. 

Consider new informal roles for OGL to recognize in themselves and then in Online Group Members such as 

• Greeters: This would be an encouraging person (regular attender Hebrews 10:24-25, responds positively in adversity Psalm 31:24,  has deep faith in God Psalm 121:1-2, matured to the end of the Roman road Romans 15:2). This person may not share all the time but when they do, it's edifying, inspired, and a divine appointment. 
• Non-verbal Listeners: The person who over shares, could help by looking at others noticing who is ready to share and draws them out. Refocus their zeal to Build up others (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and see others like Jesus (Romans 15:5). 
• First Responders: Prayer team, OGL can reach out to and ask for prayer for the group culture. 

Words and phrases to describe a welcoming atmosphere where every new person feels especially at home include:

• Hospitable: Disposed to treat guests and strangers with cordiality and generosity. A hospitable environment is welcoming and open.
• Inviting: Suggests an environment that encourages people to feel comfortable and at ease.
• Friendly/Friendly atmosphere/friendly environment: Characterized by or befitting a friend; diffusing warmth and friendliness.

Applications:

• Is the soil of your group nurturing, is the bread fresh or days old? 
• Have you ever been in the "out group." Is anyone in your group sitting alone in the cafeteria? Is anyone holding the ball but has "no one to play with."
• When someone new shows up is a cause of celebration for group or cause of interruption or do they go completely unnoticed.
• Do you pray for the missing people when you start the group?
• When you add someone to What's App does everyone jump in engage the new member beyond a default "hello/welcome!"

Coaching:

Each group member has been placed in your group on purpose. May the Lord magnify each person in our group and build a culture so that no one is left behind. 

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Saturday morning IST - "Love God, Love People"

However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard (perceived), and what no human mind has conceived”—  the things God has prepared (acts on behalf) for those who love (wait for) him— these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. 1 Cor 2:9, Isaiah 64:4

This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. 1 Cor 4:1-2

I'm looking forward to the new BSF study and starting an early morning leaders meeting India time. 

Themes Commonly Quoted in India Commonly Quoted in America

Hope in Hardship, Jeremiah 29:11,  Romans 8:28 

• Shared themes of comfort, but Indian (Isaiah 41:10, Psalm 23) use is more grounded in suffering than self-realization (Psalm 46:1).
• Healing Psalm 91, Psalm 103:2-3, James 5:14-15 Isaiah 53:5, Matthew 11:28-30, Psalm 147:3 Indian Christians frequently pray for physical healing due to limited access to care.

Endurance Through Persecution Matthew 5:10-12, James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 5:7, 2 Corinthians 12:9 Less frequently emphasized India emphasizes perseverance under actual risk; U.S. Christians often face cultural but not legal pressure.

Spiritual Identity & Calling Philippians 4:13, Micah 6:8, Isaiah 60:1 Ephesians 2:10, 1 Peter 2:9, Romans 12:2 Americans focus on individual purpose; Indians emphasize purpose in the face of systemic opposition.

Provision & Miracles Psalm 121, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:33 Malachi 3:10, Philippians 4:13, Matthew 6:33 U.S. use leans toward prosperity or financial trust; India’s focus is survival and divine provision.

Evangelism & Mission Romans 1:16, Matthew 28:19-20 Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 1:8 Both quote the Great Commission, but Indian Christians often do so with greater personal risk.

Community & Humility Micah 6:8, Acts 2:42-47, Philippians 2:1-4 Hebrews 10:24-25, Galatians 6:2, Acts 2:42-47 Indian use reflects communal survival; American usage supports volunteerism and structured programs.

Justice & Advocacy Micah 6:8, Proverbs 31:8-9 Amos 5:24, Isaiah 1:17 Both draw from prophets, but Indian use often ties to caste equality, education, and basic rights.

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Together, let’s build what only God can bless

I just returned from BSF HQ training, and I have exciting news: now is the time to build. BSF is inviting volunteers to help make our ministry more accessible than ever—through translations, modern technology, and refreshed training materials.

This reminds me of Nehemiah 1:9–11—a prayer of deep faith. Nehemiah sought God’s favor before taking action, trusting that even a person exiled "to the ends of the earth" could be brought back to the place God chose for His name to be honored.

It’s also the Old Testament echo of Jesus’ miracle of the loaves and fishes. He prayed, worked with His disciples, and God multiplied a modest offering to feed over 5,000—with leftovers.

That’s how movements begin—with prayer, obedience, and action.

Nehemiah’s story ends with this testimony (Nehemiah 6:15–16):

“The wall was finished… in just 52 days. And when our enemies heard about it… they realized this work had been done with the help of our God.”

Together, let’s build what only God can bless. 

It’s clear: the Lord is moving and answering our prayers. He’s encouraging us to “bring our lunch to Jesus”—and then watch Him do the miracle.

I’ve been deeply encouraged by these words from our resurrected Lord:

“It is not for you to know the times or dates… But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses.”

(Acts 1:7–8)

We are witnessing it now.

God is turning our small offerings—like lunchtime availability—into miraculous impact:

• Training materials
• Handouts
• Recordings
• Even the BSFOnline.org experience
• —fully accessible in native languages.

And today—Pentecost Sunday, June 8, 2025—we remember that God’s answer to the brokenness of Babel wasn’t judgment alone, but grace: Everyone hearing the Gospel in their own language.

He’s still doing it.

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Revelation of the church, a kingdom of priests (Rev 1:6, 5:10, 22:5-6)

Still enjoying this years Revelation study with BSF. My one word for this year was Church. I've come to realize that our view of the church, directly impacts our view of end times. Grateful for church with my wife, brother and mom yesterday (happy mothers day, seeing Jeannie and Mike and Joy). Driving with Paul we got to talk about Worry is a dark thought that is cured with heavenly insight (Matthew 6:19-34)

Growing up church was the place you brought someone to hear the good news about Jesus, they would say a prayer and be saved. It was also a "Sunday School" where you could learn more about living the Christian Life: "This is what Jesus said and did, how will this impact the way you treat people at home, at school or strangers?"

Now I see church as a community where heaven and earth meet together and all our gracious Father has is ours. We are adopted into the Family of God, co-heirs with Christ. 

When saying "church" in the context of Revelation most people think about the seven churches, especially the lukewarm church that makes Jesus want to vomit. Here's what I see:

Revelation 1:6: who has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.

• 1 Peter 2:5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
• Romans 12:1  Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.
• Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.
• 1 Corinthians 6:20 you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body.
• Titus 2:14  He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.
• Ephesians 1:6 to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One.
• Colossians 1:13 He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son,

Revelation  5:10: And you have caused them to become a Kingdom of priests for our God. And they will reign on the earth.”

Revelation 22:5: And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Revelation 20:6: Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection! The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.

Daniel 7:18,27: But the saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever

Hebrews 12:28: Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.

BibleHub is a great resource and has this comentary breakdown of Rev 1:6

who has made us to be a kingdom

This phrase indicates the transformation and elevation of believers into a collective entity under God's sovereign rule. The concept of a "kingdom" reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as those found in Exodus 19:6, where Israel is called to be a "kingdom of priests." This kingdom is not defined by geographical boundaries but by the spiritual reign of Christ in the hearts of believers. It signifies the establishment of God's rule through the church, which is often referred to as the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23). The kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope, as believers await the full manifestation of God's reign.

priests to His God and Father

The role of priests in the Old Testament was to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and prayers. By calling believers "priests," this phrase emphasizes the direct access to God granted through Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). This priesthood is a spiritual service, involving worship, prayer, and the proclamation of the Gospel. It reflects the democratization of the priestly role, no longer limited to a specific tribe or lineage, but extended to all who are in Christ. This aligns with 1 Peter 2:9, which describes believers as a "royal priesthood."

to Him be the glory and power forever and ever!

This doxology attributes eternal glory and power to God, acknowledging His supreme authority and majesty. The phrase echoes the worship found throughout Revelation, where God's sovereignty is a central theme (Revelation 4:11; 5:13). The eternal nature of God's glory and power underscores His unchanging character and the everlasting nature of His kingdom. This expression of praise is a response to God's redemptive work through Christ, highlighting the ultimate purpose of creation and redemption: the glorification of God.

Amen

"Amen" is a Hebrew word meaning "truly" or "so be it," used to affirm the truth and certainty of what has been stated. It is a common conclusion to prayers and doxologies, signifying agreement and trust in God's promises. In the context of Revelation, it serves as a seal of affirmation to the preceding declaration of God's glory and power, inviting readers to join in the worship and acknowledgment of God's eternal reign.

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Biblical history God's plan, and provision to become his people

God's plan: God’s glory: Psalm 19:1-4; Romans 1:20, made humans In His image: Genesis 1:26-27 and set Eternity in our hearts: Ecclesiastes 3:11

God's book: Inspired writers: 2 Peter 1:19-21

God's character: Holy, Creator, Lord of All. Promise and fulfillment Satan’s defeat: Genesis 3:1-15, Revelation 20:10, Redemption, freedom from sin’s bondage: Romans 8:18-39

Love is our nature when we believe and accept Jesus

God's provision over human history: Creation: Genesis 1:1–2:3, Creation of humans: Genesis 1:26–2:25,  Forbidden tree: Genesis 2:8-17

• Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Romans 2:4

Human sin and God's promised redemption (Old Covenant): Satanic serpent: Genesis 3:1; Revelation 12:9; 20:2, Adamic covenant (1 Family): Genesis 3:15, Filled with violence: Genesis 6:13, Noah: Genesis 6:9, Noahic covenant: Genesis 9:8-17, 5. Abrahamic covenant: Genesis 12:1-3, Abraham’s righteousness: Genesis 15; Romans 4:3, 9, 20-22, Promised land: Genesis 15:9-21, Heb 11:8-10, God’s people: Genesis 17:7, Matt 12:50, Jesus’s genealogy: Matthew 1:1-17, Prophecy of slavery: Genesis 15:13, Promise to punish: Genesis 15:14, Promise of liberation: Exodus 6:6-7, Passover (1 Nation): Exodus 12:1-42, Leaving Egypt: Exodus 12:31, Lamb of God: John 1:29 (1 World), Passover lamb: 1 Corinthians 5:7, Mosaic covenant: Exodus 19–24, Follow only God: Exodus 23:20-33, Need for a Savior: Romans 3:19-26, Promise of Judah: Genesis 49:10, David’s call: 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Davidic covenant: 2 Samuel 7:8-16, Jerusalem conquered: Jeremiah 1:1-16; 6:6, 22-23; 52:1-30, Promised return: Jeremiah 29:10-14, Promise of Messiah: Jeremiah 23:5-6

• But—When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us. Titus 3:4-6

New Covenant fulfilled in Jesus Christ life, death, and resurrection: Jeremiah 31:31-34, Redeemed: Romans 3:23-25, Transformed: 2 Corinthians 3:18, Reborn: John 3:5; Ephesians 2:8-9, Conceived by Holy Spirit: Luke 1:29-38, Prophecy of Bethlehem: Micah 5:2, Joseph in David’s lineage: Matthew 1:1-17, Salvation from sin: Matthew 1:21, Died in Passover season: Luke 22:7-22; 23:26-56, Carried our iniquity: Isaiah 53:4-6,  Rose in three days: Matthew 28:1-10, Eternal life: 1 Corinthians 15:12-58

Church Era (grace period): Spirit within believers: Romans 6:1-14; 8:6-16; 2 Corinthians 3:18, Jesus prepared His followers: Luke 24:45-49; Acts 1:4-8, Promise of Holy Spirit: Acts 1:8, Promised return: Acts 1:9-11, Pentecost: Leviticus 23:15-22, Beginning of the Church: Acts 2:13-41, Great Commission: Matthew 28:18-20, Power of the gospel: Romans 1:16, Lord of all: Romans 14:11; Philippians 2:10-11; Revelation 1:7, Restore, reward, and judge: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10

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Church and BSF Over the Years, foundational to living Coram Deo

I started going to church in 2005, met my wife there (getting baptized in 2005, and married in 2006.

Service in the church went from door greeter to Sunday School helper to welcome committee. 

I started BSF during the Roman's study in years 06/07

I was called into leadership the first week of Matthew and BSF has been central to empowering my ministry in other areas. The key component is the strong relationships and prayer together as we experience ministry with God. 

07/08 Teaching Level 1 with Steve Stang

During these years I was a Children's Leader and had Homiletics done for me in preparation for the lesson and was not required to do Homiletics myself. 

08/09: Life of Moses - during this time I was mentoring at Teen Challenge (TC) as well with Kevin R

09/10: John

10/11: Isaiah

11/12: Acts - it was this year on Mother's Day I had my first divine appointment with Christine Foster, who received the Holy Spirit. God revealed this to me in course of ministry and worship. Fall of 

12/13: Genesis - I became Assistant Children's Supervisor here. 

13/14: Matthew - I met and mentored Jason VW via TC

As OGL I had the opportunity to do weekly homiletics and started this blog. 

14/15: Life of Moses - Became OGL, Admin, and help launch Distance Meeting in Rochester MN

Psalm 119:11: Moses life is preserved by God for His eternal purpose (benlorence.blogspot.com)

15/16: Revelation - First Missionary trip to Myanmar. 

Psalm 119:11: John sees God's redemptive plan completed in Christ's return (benlorence.blogspot.com)

16/17: John

Psalm 119:11: John wrote so you would believe in Jesus, Son of God (benlorence.blogspot.com)

17/18: Romans - Started Alpha at MN Adult and Teen Challenge

Psalm 119:11: The good news of Jesus Christ and it's impact on everyone (Romans) (benlorence.blogspot.com)

Second missionary trip to Myanmar with Alpha Youth.

18/19: People of the Promise Land I - Joined Alpha TC board and weekly prayer group. 

Psalm 119:11: Samuel, Saul, and conflicts prepare David for kingship (1 Samuel) (benlorence.blogspot.com)

Psalm 119:11: Joshua wastes no time living into God's promises (benlorence.blogspot.com)

Psalm 119:11: Naomi sees redemption through Ruth, Boaz, and Obed (Ruth 1-4) (benlorence.blogspot.com)

19/20: Acts of the Apostles: - Became Online Group Leader

Psalm 119:11: The Church era continues to change the world (Acts) (benlorence.blogspot.com)

20/21: Genesis: Became Assistant Online Trainer 

Psalm 119:11: God creates everything, Father of humanity for never-ending relationship (Genesis)

 (benlorence.blogspot.com)

21/22: Matthew: Became Online Trainer

Psalm 119:11: Jesus life message; have faith in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew) (benlorence.blogspot.com)

First BSF Trainers retreat in Texas, hearing God's call for equipping Eddie and David

22/23: People of the Promise- Kingdom Divided 

I'm excited for the next few years of ministry in the presence of God. 

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End of suffering (Isaiah 25-35, Rev 21:4)

 Reading the Basic Doctrines provided by BSF, preparing for OT role and training this weekend. I have a close friend who is Buddhist. A foundation of Buda is suffering caused by the ego interpreting nature as good or bad with the ultimate resolution of indifference leading to non-existence (Nirvana). This is counter the Christian understanding of the cause and destiny of suffering.  Here's an excerpt of the Christian doctrine of suffering:

Suffering is the experience of physical, mental, emotional or spiritual pain and/or distress. Suffering entered the world as a consequence of the fall of Adam and Eve and will be eternally abolished in the new heaven and new earth (Genesis 3; Revelation 21)....Some possible reasons for suffering include loving discipline, purification and/or an increased intimacy with Jesus Christ while other reasons for suffering remain mysteriously hidden (Proverbs 3:12; Romans 5:1-5; Philippians 3:7-10). Regardless of the type, purpose or reason of the suffering, no suffering is outside of God’s sovereign rule (Isaiah 45:7). Rather, God is able to use it for good (Genesis 50:15-21; Romans 8:28)...God has promised the suffering of His people will eventually end (Revelation 21:4). Until then, believers should expect to share in the suffering of Jesus Christ as a result of taking up their cross and following Him in a hostile world (Mark 8:34-35; Romans 8:17-18; Colossians 1:24).

I looked up Rev 21:4 and found references to Isaiah that made me want to understand the broader context between Isaiah 25 and 35.

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” Rev 21:4

He will swallow up death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from every face and remove the disgrace of His people from the whole earth. For the LORD has spoken. - Isaiah 25:8

So the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee. - Isaiah 35:10

So the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee. - Isaiah 51:11

Your sun will no longer set, and your moon will not wane; for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and the days of your sorrow will cease. - Isaiah 60:20

I will rejoice in Jerusalem and take delight in My people. The sounds of weeping and crying will no longer be heard in her. - Isaiah 65:19

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Doctrine Worksheet

 1. People are made in the image of God for fellowship with God. R) Humanity: Creation and Purpose

2. A promise that can be conditional or unconditional. E) Covenants

3. Passing from existence in a decaying human body to a glorified body that lives forever. O) Resurrection

4. Believing God and acting on it. U) Faith

5. The company of all the redeemed known to God. A) The Church

6. The Holy Spirit gives new life. G) Regeneration

7. Jesus took our place and bore the full wrath of God. P) Substitution

8. God chose those who would respond in faith. M) Election

9. Something that functions as a substitute for God. F) Idolatry

10. The progressive growth in holiness. W) Sanctification

11. God’s holy desire and action for justice and righteousness to prevail.  S) Salvation

12. Our salvation is guaranteed by the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Q) Eternal Security

13. Talking with God. Z) Prayer

14. The cost of following Jesus is dying to self. I) Cross for a Believer

15. An outrage against God and a source of harm to people. H) Sin

16. Includes conviction of sin and turning from it. K) Repentance

17. Absolute authority and rule. L) Sovereignty

18. God’s reign throughout history: the now and the not yet. N) Kingdom of God

19. The second Person of the Trinity, the unique God-Man forever. Y) God the Son

20. Jesus pays for sin, removing the barrier that separates us from God and wins us back to fellowship with Him. C) Reconciliation

21. Deliverance from sin’s penalty, power and presence. X) Wrath of God

22. No one can be saved by them but the saved will do them. T) Works

23. God pronounces our sins forgiven and Christ’s righteousness as ours. J) Justification

24. God’s favor to the utterly undeserving. B) Grace

25. Physical, sudden, visible, unexpected. D) Second coming of Christ

26. Adam's sin caused all to inherit a sinful nature. V) Humanity: Fall and Judgement

1. The Bible

A. 40+ authors B. Without error in original manuscripts C. Contains historical contradictions

2. God the Father

A. Father of all people B. First Person of Trinity C. Equal to the Son and Holy Spirit

3. The Holy Spirit

A. Indwells all believers B. Best described as a force C. Creates new life

4. Judgment of Believers and Unbelievers

A. All will be punished for sin B. Believers are judged for their works C. Punitive judgment is eternal

5. Millennium

A. Means a thousand years B. Refers to the reign of Christ C. A clear sequence of events

6. Redemption

A. Purchased from sin B. The ongoing deliverance from sin C. Through Jesus’ blood

7. Righteousness

A. Given to believers B. Removes the tendency to sin C. God’s right being and acting

8. Satan and demons

A. Rebelled against God B. Limited in power C. Will be defeated at Christ’s return

9. Suffering

A. Evidence of God’s judgment on sin B. Resulted from the Fall C. Experienced by all people

10. The Trinity

A. One God, three Persons B. God revealed in three ways C. One mind, purpose, nature

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"In the beginning God created heavens and earth" denies six worldviews (Gen 1:1, Romans 8:18-23)

Explore the Book by J Baxter suggests Genesis 1:1 alone denies these worldviews:

• Atheism with its doctrine of no god
• Polytheism: the doctrine of many gods
• Fatalism doctrine of chance
• Evolution doctrine of infinite becoming
• Pantheism which makes god and universe identical
• Materialism which asserts the totality of matter

Why would God create a world of suffering? Read: Gen 1:1, Romans 8:18-23

What was God's design in creation? What caused the failure? What has God done to address the issues of sin's effects? Will his plan ever win the day? Will there ever be an end to the grief and the groaning? 

Join Bible Study Fellowship and find the answer for yourself. https://www.bsfonline.org/

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God works through Abigail, David, Saul, and Philistine home (1 Samuel 25-27, Psalm 37)

“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.” – Psalm 54:4

“The Lord makes firm the steps of those who delight in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” – Psalm 37:23-24

The best part of BSF is the first question every week: "how you have seen God’s activity during the week. (How has He provided, answered, comforted, reconciled, guided, etc.?)"
 - It helps us to notice HOW God is at work in our lives. Through people, through circumstances, that prayer is all we have, in ourselves that in spite of circumstance we have joy and peace. In relationships that seemed irreconcilable and in decisions/commitments that put us on the right path he's showing us. What a wonderful year we've had in fellowship with one another.

Big Idea: God’s mercy is greater than all our weakness, weariness and sin.

1 Samuel 25-27; Psalm 37
A) Abigail intervenes between Nabal and David saving many lives
25:1) Samuel died, all Israel gathered mourned, buried at his house Ramah, David arose to wilderness of Paran
2-3) Nabal (harsh/evil/Calebite) in Maon, 3,000 sheep, 1,000 goats in Carmel, Abigail wife intelligent/beautiful
4-8) David sends 10 men to bless him with peace, give an account of blessings bestowed and ask a favor, give
9-17) Nabal didn't know David/Jesse, David/400 come to visit, a worker tells Abigail truth of David's protection
 - 11) Nabal SCORN: "Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat that I have slaughtered for my shearers, and give it to men whose origin I do not know?”
 - 17) Nabal workers: "he is such a worthless man that no one can speak to him
 - Principle: Respect those whom God has placed in charge
 - Application: I'm like Nabal, Arrogance, stupidity, "unearned wealth", unknown protection from government/police - assuming that my position is and knowledge gives me the right to treat other/unknown people in need poorly. Certainly should know better but go on towards foolish ends.
- Application 2: I'm like David, quick tempter, going to extremes when I feel mistreated. Both sides suffer when the greater more mature person goes to the extreme. Thank God for godly women at home and in the workplace - cooler heads prevail, love covers a multitude of sins.

 - Proverbs 17:27 tells us: “He who has knowledge spares his words.” This means keeping in check a multitude of opinions that could ignite further anger in others. Someone who displays wisdom will think before speaking, and then will share only insights likely to be helpful.

18-22) Abigail 200 loaves, wine, 5 sheep prepared.. loaded on donkeys, workers, David intends to slaughter all Nabal has
 - 21) “Surely in vain I have guarded all that this man has in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that belonged to him; and he has returned me evil for good."
23-25) Abigail takes blame for not intervening sooner, Nabal name = folly
26-31) Abigail blesses David in the name of the LORD with gifts, asks forgiveness, acknowledges David as lord
32-35) David acknowledges LORD who sent Abigail, grants her request.
 - 35) David received from her hand what she had brought him and said to her, “Go up to your house in peace. See, I have listened to you and granted your request.”
Application: Be like Abigail: wise, takes responsibility to save many at great personal risk, leadership - gets others to help her make things right, intervenes between two opposing forces helps them make peace.
36-38) Nabal eating/drinking like a king, Abigal tells what happened, his heart died, 10 days later LORD struck Nabal, he died
39-42) David, "Blessed be the LORD", heard David, brought Nabal's evildoing on himself - took Abigail to be his wife
 - 41) She arose and bowed with her face to the ground and said, “Behold, your maidservant is a maid to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.”
 - Application: be like Abigail, follow the LORD wholeheartedly and help others do the same Lord, wash my feet, Godly relationship enhance spiritual growth (Romans 16), Everyone's choice: sacrilege or coram Deo
43-44) Meanwhile David also marries Ahinoam of Jezreel and Saul regifts Michal to Palti son of Laish, from Gallim.
Psalm 37:1-6) don't worry/envy wrongdoers, trust God and do good, cultivate faithfulness, delight in the LORD, commit your way to HIM - trust in HIM, he will bring forth righteousness/judgment as the light of noonday
7-11) rest in the LORD, wait patiently for Him, stewing over others wicked schemes only leads to evildoing
12-15) wicked plot againt righteous, LORD laughs, He sees, their sword enters their heart
16-20) better little + righteous, than abundance + wicked, LORD sustains, knows = evidence not ashamed in the time of evil
21-22) wicked borrows, doesn't pay back, righteous graciously gives, blessed inherit land, cursed cut off
23-26) STEPS of man established by the LORD, He delights in his way, fails but God has his hand, gracious/lending, descendants are a blessing (footprints in the sand)
27-34) depart from evil and do good, LORD loves justice, righteous speak wisdom/justice, law of God in his heart (Psalm 119:11), his steps don't slip wait for the LORD you will see
35-40) wicked men like big tree gone, man of peace has posterity - salvation of righteous is from the LORD, strength, help, delivers - because they take refuge in HIM.
Application: better to rest in the LORD, trust him as I obey and see his day approaching.

B) David trust LORD, sparing Saul's life a second time
26:1-5) Ziphites tells Saul David hiding, 3,000 searches for him. David, spies where Saul lays
6-12) While Saul and army slept, David and Abishai walk up to Saul and converse about killing him or letting LORD deal with him, steal spear and jug of water.
13-16) David calls the army out for not protecting LORDs annointed
17-20) Saul recognized David's voice, David asks why he pursues him, evil he's done, LORDs will?
21-25) Saul repents, David gives back spear, they make peace blessing eachother
 - 23) The Lord will repay each man for his righteousness and his faithfulness

C) David lives with Philistines under false pretense
27:1-7) David lives with Philistines, Achish at Gath with 600 men and their families, Saul no longer searched for him, 1 year, 4 months in Ziklag, Judah
8-12) David robs and kills Geshurites, Girzites, Amalekites - lies to Achish - says Negev of Judah, Jerahmeelites, Kenites - Achish, believed David is his servant

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Redemption and the "To Be" list

Redemption: freedom, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit
 - new identity, part of the family
 - redeemer sets the value of the redeemed
Joy from the heart

Redemption validates future hope, eternal life starts now and last forever. I was reading, “To-Do” List or “To-Be” List? that talks about God's part and our part in being the people we want to be, rather than just doing things. Focus on why, in other words, what do we want to BE at the end.
God's part: "...God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Phil 2:12-13)"
Our part: "Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. (Ephesians 4:28)"

Bsf has this great doctrine statement we got as part of our Ruth study that reminded me of Jason V: Redemption is a word borrowed from the commercial world of the ancient near east (where slaves were bought and sold) and pressed into biblical service to describe how Jesus has purchased us in the marketplace of sin to set us free from sin’s dreadful bondage. The story of Hosea’s purchase of Gomer in the Old Testament book by his name is a wonderful example of this transaction (Hosea 3:1-2). Peter has the same concept in mind when he writes, “It was not with perishable things such as silver and gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:18, 19). His point is we have been set free from slavery to sinful ways of life and should therefore live as being Christ’s possession. (See Romans 6:22-23; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Ephesians 1:7.) 

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The meaning and value of work

If Ephesians 2:8-10 could be understood by all Christians, most controversies about works would be avoided. That passage mentions works twice, once in verses 8 and 9 (“It is by grace you have been saved … not by works, so that no one can boast”) and once in verse 10 (“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works”). The first verses refer to justification, and in justification, works are excluded. No one can be “saved” (in the sense of justified) by human works. In Galatians, Paul even pronounces a curse on anyone who would dare to teach differently (Galatians 1:8-9). On the other hand, in verse 10, Paul speaks about works to be done by one who has already been justified, and in this case, works are absolutely necessary, for they are ordained by God for all who are born again. If there are no works, there is no new life. A sincere profession of faith followed by a changed life with good works, not a mere profession alone, is the only real proof of a person’s salvation. (See also Romans 11:6; Galatians 2:16; 2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 3:4-8; James 2:14-18; 2 Peter 1:5-11.) - BsfInternational.org

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Judgment of Believers and Unbelievers

The Bible speaks of many kinds of judgment. The book of Revelation is full of them. The chief kinds of judgment are: 1) punitive judgment upon the unregenerate for their many sins (Romans 1:18, 28; 2:1-16; Hebrews 9:27; Acts 17:31); and 2) evaluative judgment upon believers as to how well they have served Christ as His disciples in this life (Romans 8:1; 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Timothy 4:8). The evaluative judgments are sometimes spoken of as rewards and should encourage believers to faithful obedience and good works throughout their lives (1 Corinthians 3:14; 15:58; 2 Corinthians 5:10). The punitive judgments are described as being dreadful and are set forth in Scripture as a warning to sinners to flee to Jesus Christ. Punitive judgments will be endured in a conscious condition and forever (Luke 16:19-31; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; Revelation 20:15). This doctrine is offensive to many people, but it helps to remember that judgment establishes true value or worth. Judgment proves that who we are and what we do matters.
https://www.bsfinternational.org/

Revelation themes found throughout the Bible
https://twitter.com/AJWTheology/status/981120245422329856

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The Cross for a Believer

Jesus did not make His call to discipleship easy. On the contrary, He stressed the cost of following Him, showing it meant full obedience and the renunciation of all contrary plans that one might prefer to make for oneself. One way Jesus spoke about this was to talk about the cross, saying, for example, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). This is necessary for faithfully following Jesus; it is not optional (Luke 14:27). No one who refuses to take up their cross and follow Jesus can be a Christian. It is personal; no one can do it for you (Matthew 16:24). It is voluntary; no one is forced to take up the cross. A person must take it willingly (Matthew 19:21-22). It is mortal; the cross is meant to kill all selfish desires or ambition. We must die to self here if we would bear eternal fruit (John 12:24-26).

Bsfinternational.org

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Life change through weekly challenge to apply scripture

My friend and mentor Greg called me into leadership December 2007 and changed my life. I learned God equips those he calls. That the Lord precedes those who follow his way. To whom much is given, much is required. Every week he'd have a little word, nudging me forward on the path towards godliness. So what exactly has changed?

"I was found by those not looking for me"
1. Through daily Bible study was able to minister to family, friends, and acquaintances - seeing breakthroughs in loved one's lives.
2. Having been a children's leader for 4 years was empowered to lead Sunday school for 120 5th and 6th graders and 6-12 volunteer table teachers.
3. Was tuned to God's will Mother's day during Acts of Apostle study, brought Christine F. to Christ, witnessing the Holy Spirit change her life - Greg was the first person I called to tell.

"Prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective"
4. Praying with a friend over the phone for a miracle in his marriage was interrupted by his estranged wife calling on the other line.
5. I was never without gainful employment, having cast my care upon the Lord, who provides everything we need
6. God let me be part of an answer to prayers of men in Rochester and our two new satellite groups in Minneapolis and Red Wing.

"You will always underestimate the impact of your absence in time and eternity"
7. God wants us to be faithful, available and teachable. To grow up into the men he's designed us to be, not "spiritual tadpoles". Greg ministered to me so I could minister to Judy P and facilitate her funeral.
8. August 2015: St. Matthew's Orphanage Center, Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar. The light of Christ shines brightly when all around is darkness.
9. I'm now leading SALT Christian network at Ameriprise, giving a 4 month class on Christian beliefs regarding origins, morality, meaning, and destiny. This curriculum I helped create is also used at my church to help new believers understand the first steps after accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior.
10. None of this would have been possible without Greg Stratford first saying, "Here I am Lord, send me"

Happy Birthday dear friend. May God bless you, Robin and Megan

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Ministry makes a difference ONLY when people follow Jesus Christ

Ministry does not make a difference when it helps people follow the world (godlessness), the flesh (selfishness) or the devil (evil). Worldliness can be defined as "whatever makes sin look normal and righteousness seem strange." The flesh can be summarized as, "I do what I do because I want what I want." The devil wants to kill, steal and destroy and is manifested in suicide, murder, and cruelty. On a side note about the devil stealing, to rob someone is to take something from them when they are present. Think "Armed robbery", a thief occurs when something is stolen when nobody is home. Don't let the devil steal your ministry, but stay awake and be vigilant.

Ministry without eternal impact, reminds me of the prosperity gospel (which is mainly wrong in that the focus is on YOU). Biblical Christianity focuses on GOD. Yes, but some preaching and teaching from prosperity teachers are true. I know many people who have been awakened to the things of God by some of these teachers. Just like others have been awakened through apologetics and healing ministries. But the litmus test must be in what it brings people to wholeheartedly follow after. Are they in it for ME or in it for GOD?

Following Jesus Christ 

• Leave yourself behind, saying yes to God and no to past patterns (100% NO is easier than wondering if now is an okay time for ____________)
• Don't take provisions, trust God to provide (for me this was an entirely new career path and God has provided!) - "Leave Egypt" 
• Know the mission, fulfill the mission wholeheartedly 
• Lifetime of preparation for an eternity of service ("your best life later" though it really does start now)

Are you helping people follow Christ or the world?

The way to know is what are you focused on. What do you pray about? What troubles your soul? What do you rejoice about? What makes you sing?

The World's Pattern of ISMs (from bsfinternational.org)

• Secularism also known as humanism, relativism, pragmatism, pluralism, hedonism and materialism. This is the pursuit of life apart from God. The Bible calls this the pattern of this world (Romans 12:1-2). Secularism says the physical world is all there is.
• Humanism or humanitarianism looks at our lives apart from God, with humanity as the center. Biblically Nebuchadnezzar had the mindset of a secular humanist. Humanism essentially says that everything revolves around humanity and exist for our glory.
• Relativism, if humans are the center then there can be no absolutes. Everything is relative. Ironically, humanism devalues human life because values become meaningless. If truth, goodness, and beauty exist, we cannot find them through relativism because we need absolutes to discover absolutes. When relativism rules, we cannot learn to sift through error to discover what is true, good and beautiful.
• Syncretism attempts to reconcile beliefs or practices fo different religions and philosophies. Syncretism assumes some or all religions are equally true, valuable and valid. This error was seen in the early church where Gnosticism tried to deny Jesus Christ had a real body and died a real physical death on the cross (1 John 4:1-3).

Main point, whatever we add to the gospel of God's grace is always less than the gospel and cannot save. And the gospel is found and understood in the whole Bible:

Jesus said to them, “These are the words I spoke to you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms.” He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, (Luke 24:44-46)

Brothers, Train Up the Next Generation

• Disciple faithful men 2 Timothy 1:14, 2:2
• Beware Hezekiah Syndrome 2 Chronicles
• Avoid Temporal Shortsightedness
• Cultivate Far-Seeing Vision
• Invest in the Next Gospel Generation

Ministry Is Supernatural, not professional
“I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (Galatians 6:17). “I am crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20). “I die every day!” (1 Corinthians 15:31). “For the sake of Christ I am content with weaknesses” (2 Corinthians 12:10). “He was crucified in weakness . . . we also are weak in him, but in dealing with you we will live with him by the power of God” (2 Corinthians 13:4). “We are the aroma of Christ . . . a fragrance from death to death . . . a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Corinthians 2:15–16).
Pastors say, “Who is sufficient for these things!” And then they look to God. Professionals say, “Education and training and savvy are sufficient.” And then they look to experts.

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Incommunicable (natural) and Communicable (character) Attributes of God

Incommunicable (Natural) Attributes
Creator - Gen 1:1-3:1; Ex 20:5-10; 2 Peter 3; Heb 11:1-7
Eternal - Ex 3:13-14;John 8:58; Rev 1:8
Immutable (unchanging) - Numbers 23:19; Psalm 102:25-27; Heb 13:8
Incomprehensible - Job 36:26; Matt 11:17; Romans 11:33
Independent (self-existent) - Psalm 115:3; Isaiah 44:24 John 10:17-18
Infinite - Psalm 90:1-2; Isaiah 40:28; Heb 1:10-12
Majestic - 1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalms 24:10; 68:34-35
Omnipresent (fully present everywhere) - Psalm 139:7-10; Jer 23:24
Perfect - Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 18:30; Heb 4:15
Self-sufficient - Gen 1:1; Isaiah 40:28;John 1:12
Sovereign - Isaiah 46:10; Romans 8:28-30; 9:19-21
Supreme (Pre-eminent) - Psalm 99:1-3; Col 1:15-19
Triune - Matt 28:19; 1 Cor 12:4-6; 2 Cor 13:14; John 14:1-15:1
Transcendent - 1 Kings 8:27; Isaiah 40:22;55:8-9
Unique - Exodus 15:1; Deuteronomy 33:26-27;1 Cor 8:6

Communicable (Character) Attributes
Accessible - Romans 5:1-2; 10:8; James 4:8
Faithful - Deuteronomy 7:8-9; Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 Thes 5:24
Generous - Psalm 65:9-13; John 1:16; Romans 10:12
Good - Psalm 25:7-8; 145:9; 1 Tim 4:4
Gracious - Psalm 84:11; John 1:14; 2 Tim 1:9
Holy - Psalm 22:3; Isaiah 6:3; 1 Peter 1:16
Humility - Mark 10:45; 2 Cor 8:9; Phil 2:5-11
Imparial - Deuteronomy 10:17; Romans 2:11; 10:12
Jealous - Ex 34:14; Deuteronomy 4:23-24; 2 Cor 11:2
Just - Psalm 146:7-9; Isaiah 30:18;61:8; Romans 3:25-26
Kind - Gen 39:21; Romans 2:4; Titus 3:4-6
Knowledge - Proverbs 18:15; 1 Cor 2:10-11; 1 John 3:20
Love - Psalm 136: John 15:13; 1 John 4:8
Mercy - Psalm 51: 1-2; Micah 7:18; Matthew 9:13
Patient - 1 Tim 1:16; 2 Peter 3:15
Righteous - Psalm 145:17; Isaiah 51:6, 8; 1 John 2:1
Truth - Isaiah 65:16; John 8:31-32; 14:6-7
Wise - Proverbs 3:19; 1 Cor 1:25; Col 2:2-3
Wrath - Psalm 7:11; Romans 1:18; Eph 4:26-27

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