The Great Pilgrimage

When I lose a good friend who has fought the good fight and finished well and has entered the joy and glory of the Lord, I find great peace and hope in the Psalms. Here is one of my Scriptural lessons for funerals and memorial services based upon Psalm 84.

“How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the LORD; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O LORD of hosts, my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in your house, ever singing your praise! Selah  

Blessed are those whose strength is in you, in whose heart are the highways to Zion. As they go through the Valley of Baca they make it a place of springs; the early rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; each one appears before God in Zion. O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah  

Behold our shield, O God; look on the face of your anointed! For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the one who trusts in you!”

More of God

Psalms 84:1–4 ESV “How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the LORD; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O LORD of hosts, my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in your house, ever singing your praise! Selah”

This Psalm is one of the sweetest of all the Psalms, and a favorite of many. It is a Psalm of pilgrimage, of a blessed pilgrimage. The Psalmist has in mind an actual pilgrimage experience to Jerusalem during one of three annual feasts, and then also its serving as a picture for us living as the People of God.

It is about the desire within the soul of every believer for more of God Himself. The Psalmist wants us to see that we are one in heart with these ancient pilgrims of faith. Together, we are the People of God who share a glorious eternal destiny. We long for the joy and blessing of worship in the presence of God. And we persevere until we arrive at heaven.

We do long for God. We pine for Him so much in our soul that at times even our body feels it. We know that where God dwells is the most lovely of places because of His Presence. This is what inspires our joyful worship here on earth—the hope of eternal and full joy in heaven. This becomes more a reality in our lives as we mature in the faith and as we approach the end of our earthly lives in the body.

The Psalmist envies the sparrow and swallow in the Temple area. They are so near to God, and perfectly at home in His Presence. The Psalmist considers how blessed the priests are who serve in the Temple daily. The pilgrims only worship there occasionally, and at some proper distance. But, he is so thankful for the opportunity to fellowship with His God. One day, the experience of the birds and the priests would be his.

In the coming of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, worship and fellowship with God has been transformed—taken to a whole new level of joy. We have an even better taste in this life of what is promised us in the life to come. As we feed our appetite for God, it is true that we become even more hungry for Him.

More of Blessing

Psalms 84:5–8 ESV “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, in whose heart are the highways to Zion. As they go through the Valley of Baca they make it a place of springs; the early rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; each one appears before God in Zion. O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah”

Next, we observe the soul-satisfying blessing of being a pilgrim at heart. It is not just something the faithful do a few times a year, but is the very disposition of the heart. Blessings then come into the heart year-round by placing confidence in the Lord God and drawing strength from Him by faith.

This pilgrimage route is called a “highway” because many travel on it—many in the past, many currently, and many will in the future. We all are an encouragement to one another to keep going. No one travels on a pilgrimage alone.

There are many trials to face along the way. But there is no other way to get to mount Zion, except through certain valleys at times. Yet, even there God will honor our faith and make us drink from springs of water, yes even in the desert. We had no idea He could give such blessing, and provide so miraculously—and always at just the right time!

Pilgrimage is an intense adventure. It is an adventure requiring faith and hope. It is rewarded with joy and immeasurable blessings. As we continually move forward, our strength grows. Our hope increases as we are intent on reaching God’s glory.

This is Jesus’ desire for his followers to be with Him and to behold His glory. Upon arrival, gladness and joy overtake us, and all sorrow and sadness flee away! May we be resolute in our pilgrimage and our visionary goal of seeing God as our friend has attained.

More of Joy

Psalms 84:9–12 ESV “Behold our shield, O God; look on the face of your anointed! For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the one who trusts in you!”

The Psalmist cries out in prayer for blessing and a display of God’s covenant love. And then he breaks forth in song over the joy that awaits him in the very presence of God. Christians anticipate their arrival; may we follow our friend’s lead. This hymn of praise celebrates the superiority of being with God. The Psalmist declares that just one day of this special fellowship on the pilgrimage is better than three whole years spent anywhere else. He considers that even being a doorkeeper at the Temple is a greater blessing than all the fame, wealth, and power of the world. May we see how ravished the Psalmist is with the love of God?

In drawing close to God, God becomes to us like the sun—bringing light, restoration to the soul, and hope for the future. He becomes like a shield—demonstrating His power, defending from evil, and giving security. He bestows grace and glory—giving power and strength, showing His favor, and granting honor. He withholds no good thing—pouring out His goodness, revealing it in all things to the upright.

You see, being in God’s Presence will transform everything!  This is the point: the blessing of pilgrimage is that the adventure and all you have seen and experienced will stay with you when you return home.

Finally, the Psalmist concludes with a blessing for all of us. He looks up to God and praises Him for blessing all who trust Him. The Psalm opened with the Psalmist deeply longing for God and the Psalm ends with an invitation and encouragement to everyone to put their trust in Him.

Put your trust in God, in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Stay vibrant in your longing for the Final Day of Glory. As you do, your resolve in the Great Pilgrimage to the Heavenly Zion will grow, and you will find perseverance to be a joy.

2 Corinthians 5:6–9 ESV “So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.”

Pray That Other People’s Prayers Get Answered First

Your friends might pray better prayers than you do.

The Praying Prayer Team

I have many friends who regularly pray for me, my family and my ministry.  Sometimes, I wish I could listen in while they are praying.  This is because I know them and how spiritually-minded they are.  I am confident they are praying for my best and for the advance of the Gospel of the Kingdom through me.

One reason I would like to listen is to hear how the Holy Spirit might be leading them to pray for God’s will for my ministry.  But, I don’t need to hear their prayers because I will see the results of their prayers soon enough!

Borrowing Their Prayers

Sometimes I have a hard time praying for myself.  The same is true for my ministry.  I might just be tired, or tired of praying the same things over and over.  And I am sure I don’t see all the things for which I should be praying.

Every so often I start by praying, “Lord answer the prayers of Dave & Beth, Bala & Carol, Tim & Lisa, Tim & Michelle, Raymy & Jennifer, Brian & Pearl, Bob & Pam, John & Debbie on my behalf.”  These dear friends form my core prayer team.  Other days, the Lord will bring to mind other prayerful friends.  Whatever these people have prayed is surely good.

A Really Good Solution

This kind of praying opens my mind to the broader purposes and workings of God in the world and our lives.  I end up praying for those who are praying for me, and our partnership in the Gospel is strengthened!

Have you ever noticed how the Apostle Paul truly valued the prayers of his mission partners?  He understood prayer to be a powerful means of support, encouragement and actually making a difference in his ministry.

2 Corinthians 1:11 ESV “You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.” 

Colossians 4:3 ESV “At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ . . ." 

Ephesians 6:18–19 ESV “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel," 

Romans 15:30 ESV “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,”

It is wonderful to know that we are co-workers through our prayers.  Pray for those who are praying for you, that God answer their prayers for your ministry even before He answers your own.

Plead With God For Men, Plead With Men For God

Is the controlling passion and vision of our lives to fulfill Jesus’ plan of reaching the world with the Gospel?

If it is, we will not hold grandiose dreams of future service to the Lord without a present reality.  We will never become great soldiers of the faith somewhere down the road unless we actively evangelize and disciple now.  If we cannot do it now, then we will not do it later.  

Charles H. Spurgeon once described the Christian life as “pleading with God for men, and pleading with men for God.”

Our Daily Prayers

First, this means that our day should begin with prayer, entreating God for the salvation of people through us, the Lord’s humble servants.  The Apostle Paul expressed his intense concern for the salvation of his fellow Jews in his letter to the Romans 10:1 ESV, “Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.”

Paul asked God for their salvation because salvation is only God’s to grant, just as our Lord Christ taught in John 6:44 ESV, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.  And I will raise him up on the last day.”  And so, a desire for people’s salvation should lead us to fervent prayer, knowing that only God can cause people to be born again.

Growing in our desire and concern for people’s salvation is interactive with praying for their salvation.  Paul’s prayer intensified according to his concern for people, and the concern grew during, and as a result of, his prayers.  Without both prayer and personal concern in our hearts and lives, we will not plead for men.

Our Daily Conversations

Second, as the spiritual battle rages during the day, this desire and concern for people’s salvation should continue to be our inward prayer as we assault, through the power of the Holy Spirit, the work of the evil one who blinds the eyes of the unbelieving, by begging people to be reconciled to God.  We will plead with men for God.

The Apostle Paul entreats men and women everywhere, along with all our fellow ambassadors in 2 Corinthians 5:20 ESV “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”.  The Lord will accept all those who come to Him, for He Himself declared in John 6:37 ESV “All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.”  God’s success is guaranteed!

If God’s success is guaranteed, then why do we at times seem to resign from our ambassadorship?  It seems to be some fear that overtakes us:  fear of looking, feeling and being thought of as foolish; fear of not knowing what to say or how to answer questions; fear of losing friendships; fear of personal injury or loss of earthly security; fear or confrontation and discomfort; fear of personal involvement; fear of ridicule; or fear or whatever.  

But, it is in going forth with the results entrusted to God that God’s glory is put on display.  Observe Paul relying on the Spirit:

2 Corinthians 2:1–5 ESV “For I made up my mind not to make another painful visit to you. For if I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained? And I wrote as I did, so that when I came I might not suffer pain from those who should have made me rejoice, for I felt sure of all of you, that my joy would be the joy of you all. For I wrote to you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you. Now if anyone has caused pain, he has caused it not to me, but in some measure—not to put it too severely—to all of you.”

If we do not speak can we truly say that we are convinced that the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation?  How can we then assure ourselves that we are truly concerned for people’s needs and faithfully loving them?  Without first pleading with God for men, we will not be able to trust the Lord when we plead with men for God.

Our Life’s Labors

The work does not end with fruits of evangelism, rather the process of perfection just begins.  Disciples must be established, equipped and built up to continue the work of Christ in saving and perfecting the saints.  This is the mission of the church and the final goal is nothing less than perfection in Christ.  

Our Apostle Paul defined his ministry in this manner, in Colossians 1:28–29 ESV “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.”

May our lives be lived for Christ, and not for ourselves, by pleading with God for men, then pleading with men for God!

Acts 20:24–27 ESV “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. . . . Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.”

Four Lackluster Church People

Romans 6 is one of the most common passages of Scripture used in teaching about Christian baptism.  These verses reach far beyond baptism and teach about our new life in Christ.

Romans 6:4–7 ESV “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin.”

Our union with Christ is a mysterious and powerful personal relationship.  And it is through this union that we receive all the benefits of our salvation and new life.  

Difficult Spiritual Counseling

After reading Romans 6 it is puzzling to find church people lacking in spiritual vitality.  How would you counsel each of the following friends of yours?  What questions might you ask to lead them to consider their relationship with Jesus Christ?

1. A professing believer for 30 years, who is a pleasant and morally good person, but one without much visible Christian growth.  What is going on here?
2. A professing believer who continues to live in certain sins, and appears unconcerned about this, or only mildly bothered.  Why should they be concerned?
3. A person who wants to believe in Jesus Christ, but doesn't want too much of a changed life.  What are they missing?
4. A person who wants a changed life, but does not want to believe in Jesus Christ.  How much change can they expect?

Don’t Inspire Them, Rather Instruct Them

It is a mistake to attempt to inspire these people to perform like better Christians.  But this is often the approach taken in preaching at them and counseling with them.  They themselves often expect to hear this, and may even comply in hope that something good may happen.

We can’t counsel or convince people into union with Christ.  God alone does this.  And this teaching is exactly what we need to make known to them.  1 Corinthians 1:30 ESV “And because of him you are in [have a relationship with, united with] Christ Jesus.”

We don’t want to frustrate and confuse people about their relationship with Christ.  We want them to make their own comparison of their lives with the experience Scripture describes for a true Christian.  Let them think and wrestle with their souls before God.

While we wait, and probably have many more Gospel conversations with them, we pray for God to give His grace.  As it has been our experience described in 2 Corinthians 4:6 ESV “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.”

On To Better Boasting

Do mission reports ever seem too impressive?  

This is because it is hard to understand what is going on in a place one has never been or never lived.  Then it becomes even harder to comprehend what roles various people and ministries play in those Gospel accomplishments.

Boasting and Ministry Overlap

One of our problems is we think too individualistically about our own and each others’ contributions, and the accomplishments of our church’s missionaries.  Maybe if we recognized that teamwork is the way God designed His mission to advance, we could relax about ourselves, others’ claims, the assigning of credit, and more readily glorify God for what He is doing.

Recently I rediscovered this passage of Scripture which speaks to us about this matter.

2 Corinthians 10:13–18 ESV “But we will not boast beyond limits, but will boast only with regard to the area of influence God assigned to us, to reach even to you. For we are not overextending ourselves, as though we did not reach you. For we were the first to come all the way to you with the gospel of Christ. We do not boast beyond limit in the labors of others. But our hope is that as your faith increases, our area of influence among you may be greatly enlarged, so that we may preach the gospel in lands beyond you, without boasting of work already done in another’s area of influence. “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.”

There is plenty of affirmation to go around to all who labor in the forward movement of the Gospel.  God gives us areas of influence as He determines, and would have us rejoice greatly both in our work and in the work of others.  We should speak plainly and clearly about this, and appreciate the synergy of combined efforts that God empowers. 

Boasting about Our Work

Many times missionaries, ministries, and other Gospel workers, wrestle with reporting.  What is honest, and not overstatement?  How can this story of success be told with humility?  On the other hand, will people be able to handle hearing about what is not going well?  

They yearn to tell the larger story of what God is truly doing on a much larger scale, even beyond their own ministries, and yet through their ministries, as they envision and describe the future God might create.

Sometimes there is too much pride, but other times there is too much humility.  Both are unhelpful.  The report and the vision we all need to hear contains reasonable judgment with a strong emphasis upon the power of Christ.

Romans 15:17–18a ESV “In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me . . .”

It is good to boast, and to boast well.  This is done by claiming one’s own work and not the work of others as one’s own.  Be honest and clear and give recognition to the significant work of others.  This better boasting exalts the power and glory of Jesus Christ before all the Church.

Reading Well and Rejoicing Well

We should expect impressive reports.  But we should also expect these reports will include stories of many servants of Christ working together.  

There will be overlap because God has called us to partnership in the Gospel.  So don’t think too small or be too skeptical of those impressive reports.  Instead, pay closer attention to them.

May we become better at reading and listening more carefully, reporting more carefully and more exuberantly giving glory to God for His work through all of us individually and together as His team!

Bless Your Predecessor, Bless Your Successor

A colleague of mine has a saying:  “it is all about who you follow.” This is very true; because comparisons are inevitable.

My Predecessor

When I arrived as the new pastor it wasn’t too long before I heard the comparisons.  To some I was all the previous pastor was not, and all they ever hoped I would be.  To others I was greatly lacking compared to the skills of my predecessor. 

It didn’t take long to hear contradictory testimony, however.  To some I was more personable than the last pastor.  While to others I was less personable than the last pastor.  I am still trying to figure that one out.  

I guess it is a little like making a call as a soccer referee, to one sideline you made a great call and to the other sideline you are an idiot.  And of course, the parents may change their minds when you make the next call; and most likely they will change their minds many times throughout the match.  

None of the pastoral comparisons were mean or unkind in anyway, at least the ones I heard.  I enjoyed listening because the comments revealed far more about the people making them and their desires than the pastors under scrutiny.  And it is good and helpful to get to know such things about the people you want to serve.

Besides, it is only natural for people to make such comparisons, and to base them on their own experiences.  People have different perspectives and commitments.  And most people don’t mean any harm.  

A Strategy for Comparisons 

I knew this would happen so my approach going into the position was to only make positive comments about my predecessor.  After all, we pastors need to stick together.  I am so glad I made this commitment as it kept me thinking clearly and honoring God in my thoughts of him.  And whenever he and I spoke I was able to bless him. 

Whenever I heard a negative comment I would defend him, offer an alternative view, and redirect the conversation.  Whenever I heard a positive comment I would reinforce it and share in the goodness that person felt.  Regardless, I would pray for these dear people in the pastoral transition, as it is a challenge for everyone.  

Even pastors have to admit that we do the same comparing quite often.  Truth be told, we might even be less charitable toward others, while at the same time harsher on ourselves, failing to see the grace and gifts of God given uniquely to each servant of the Lord.  Let us remember Ephesians 4:7 ESV “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.”

My Successor

This past week my successor arrived, and I am now his predecessor.  He will likely have to find his own approach to dealing with the pastoral comparisons sure to come his way. 

A few months ago after he accepted the call I was thinking how I might bless him before he even arrived.  So I wrote him a short email, “I can hardly wait to see what God does through you at the church!  You are the right man chosen for the right time.  You have all my support and prayers in advance for whatever you set out to accomplish.”  I will be praying for him and the people we both love and serve.  

The installation service a few days ago filled everyone’s hearts with joy and hope.  My predecessor, my successor and myself were all present and we all spoke to encourage the dear people of God.  We all viewed this as one grand partnership in God carrying out His purposes in and through this particular church of His.

Transitions are Blessings

Transitions are exciting, promising, and unsettling times.  Many people think that success can be seen in a church maintaining the vision of its previous pastor.  I disagree.  I believe that it is more often God’s design to give new direction through a new leader.

By recognizing this we can more thoroughly rejoice in the past, and in the new present, and be ready for a different future.  It has been my experience that when a pastor blesses his predecessor and his successor, he blesses the congregation more than he can imagine.  And I believe God is blessed.

It is unwise to compare pastors to pastors, for too long or too closely.  Even we as the pastors need to guard our minds and not get sucked in, for we are often even more vulnerable than the congregations we serve.  Consider 2 Corinthians 10:12b ESV “But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.”

Pastors Daniel, Tim and Bob

Vicki Burris, Lisa Etherington, Linda Holmquist

A Mission Agency That Didn't Share The Gospel

While in college many Christian students enjoy serving in high school ministry.  My experience was short-lived since I had to quit within the year before I got fired.

The Arrangement Seemed a Win-Win

It was a partnership between a mainline church and an evangelical parachurch youth ministry.  This particular church was welcoming to evangelicals and taught the Bible well.  However, the Gospel took on a intellectually refined quality so as not to offend people in this highly affluent community.

Their youth ministry was struggling.  Along came an opportunity to partner with an evangelical group that had a good reputation, and seemed to be good at attracting and engaging teenagers.  By allowing them space to meet at the church it could be a win-win for both ministries.

Warning Signs Started to Show

I was recruited to the parachurch ministry by an outgoing volunteer.  Having passed the hasty interview and listening to a brief review of ministry philosophy I was on my way to ministering the Gospel to hundreds of high school students!  So I thought.

The leader of this ministry did a good job of gathering the students for the weekly meetings held at the church.  We had a lot of fun together, and we enjoyed small group discussions about various topics, from life challenges, to contemporary controversies, to simple Bible application.

After observing his upfront teaching for many months it become clear that this leader was not communicating the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a clear and compelling manner, on purpose.  We talked about this a few times and the reasons given were not to upset the host church, to keep up attendance and believing that God would somehow save some of them anyway.

The Home Visit

Part of the student ministry involved one-on-one time together outside of the weekly meetings.  I followed the philosophy of ministry and just befriended this one young man, hung out with him, even tutored him in geometry a little.  My goal was to keep him active in our weekly ministry, but I was not supposed to share God’s plan of salvation with him or try to disciple him.  The leader and the church would take care of these things I was told.

One day after we finished geometry early, he started asking me questions about Jesus Christ.  He heard about Jesus from our ministry and wanted direct and honest answers.  He said he couldn’t quite piece it all together from the large group meetings.  It was obvious that the Holy Spirit was working on this boy’s heart as he talked in wonder about Jesus Christ the Son of God become Man, and expressed hope that he had for relief from his sin and struggles if he could just figure it out.  

At first, I followed the party line, but he saw through it and kept pushing me to answer his questions.  He really did want to know, so I shared the Gospel with him fully and clearly.  After answering a few more questions, then with understanding and delight in his eyes he received the forgiveness of sins and free gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ.  This was an awesome afternoon!  I could hardly wait to tell my supervisor!

Quit This Philosophy

Soon I found myself in a meeting with the parachurch youth ministry leader.  I thought I followed the rules.  But, apparently not closely enough.  I explained everything to him, about how the conversation progressed, but to no avail.  He wasn’t even happy that this boy become a Christian, seriously.

He was fearful of offending the parents, even though this particular boy’s parents were fine with their son’s decision and themselves didn’t believe the Gospel.  In fact, they were thrilled at the changes they noticed in their son right away--his respectful attitude, outlook on life and helpfulness around the house.  He grew quickly in the short while longer that I was still allowed to be a part of his life.  

I was emboldened and shared more openly with more of the students, even in the weekly meetings.  It was well received, even by some of the official church youth leaders.  My sense of the silliness and stupidity of this parachurch ministry’s philosophy grew stronger.  It was time for me to leave.

Everyone should have asked more questions.  The church should have asked more questions of the actual ministry leader, and vice versa, before making their ministry arrangement.  The leader should have asked me more questions initially, and I should have asked him more questions.  

A few years later I was able to catch up with the leader.  We had a friendly conversation, but it was one that added to my sadness over this whole matter.  He had decided to leave the evangelical church for something he considered more traditional and mystical.  This was more than style preference for him, it was the result of his personal lack of clarity about the Gospel.  It all made sense now.

A Decided Bias for Evangelism

Why would a mission agency not want to share the Gospel?!  This makes no sense.  Our responsibility is clear.

2 Corinthians 5:20–21 ESV “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

The messenger is supposed to communicate the message clearly and compellingly!

Ever since that early ministry experience I have committed myself to hold a bias for evangelism.  I will always be partial to those ministries and people who actually do evangelism rather than those who simply talk about it, or criticize others for doing it or for how they are doing it. 

Many years later I came across this quotation from Dwight L. Moody.  When scrutinized on his methods of evangelism, he replied, "I like the way I do evangelism much better than the way you don't."

Giving Away My First $100

Without a real job and any savings to show, God told me to go ahead and give away $100.  That was most of my paycheck back then.  Plus I had never given away that much money before.

The Opportunity

My friend had just received news of his acceptance on a mission project.  He was so thrilled for this special opportunity.  I was excited for him, and for the Gospel being told to more people who would come into the Kingdom of God.

How could I share in his opportunity?  How could I express my own happiness?  After praying and thinking about it God put a strong impression upon my soul about what to do.  I made a special trip to the bank to acquire a new crisp $100 bill.

Little did I realize at the time, being so new in my faith, that I was following the Apostle Paul’s instruction and example in Acts 20:35 ESV “. . . remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’””

The Handover

When should I make the presentation?  Anticipation was building up.  My plan was starting to show on my face.  So when he came down the stairs for dinner at our dorm house I just decided to give it to him.

My friend was shocked.  He didn’t expect such a gift from me, nor at that time, nor in that manner.  He was visibly blessed.  And even more of a surprise to me, so was I.

God exceeded my expectations.  That was the day I learned that giving to the work of the Lord is like taking a reckless joyride.  And this event from early in my Christian life still brings me joy, now 26 years later.

The Grace of Giving is Like That

Pray about it and pay attention to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.  Participating in this way in the Mission of God is one of the highest privileges we enjoy.

There is a story in 2 Corinthians 8-9 about this.  Here is an excerpt:

2 Corinthians 8:1–5 ESV “We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.” 

2 Corinthians 9:7–8,10–11 ESV “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. . . . He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.”

For me the joyride began with giving away my first $100.  How does your story begin?

Make Sure You Buy A Sword

Luke summarizes five mission tours in his Gospel account.  The first four are:  (1) Jesus on mission alone (4:43); (2) Jesus on mission with the Twelve, some other disciples, and supporting and ministering women (8:1-3); (3) the Twelve by themselves on a limited mission tour (9:1-6); and (4) the Seventy-Two on a larger mission tour (10:1-16).  

The Mission Changed On The Fifth Tour 

Luke 22:35–38 ESV “And he said to them, “When I sent you out with no moneybag or knapsack or sandals, did you lack anything?” They said, “Nothing.” He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one. For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors.’ For what is written about me has its fulfillment.” And they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.” And he said to them, “It is enough.””

Jesus reminds His disciples about their previous mission campaigns.  On those circuit missions, they were told not to make any special preparations, being under a strict training in the early days.  During those times God provided everything they needed for their lives and mission.  This served as a great first lesson of total dependence upon God, and total focus on the Mission.  Such vulnerability would strengthen them for their future works of mission.

But, the fifth tour would be the Final Tour, namely the Tour of the World to take the Gospel to every people group!  

ESV Luke 24:46 and said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high."

Full Preparations Are Necessary For The Final Mission

Their new mission as the commissioned Apostles leading the Mission of the Church would be much greater.  The honor and glory would be greater, and so would be the hostilities, and so they were to be fully prepared.  They were to make full provision, whatever would be needed:  money and supplies, and they were to make sure they got a sword.  

The sword is singled out as important and as symbolic because the future will be filled with terrible hostilities.  Jesus is speaking beyond the literal in a metaphor for making sure they are fully prepared spiritually.  The sword symbolizes all the spiritual warfare that they would encounter and battle through in the future. 

They did not understand.  They were happy to have two swords; but this would not enough to help physically, even less so spiritually.  Jesus’ reply is simply “that is enough of that.”  Obviously, Jesus was not advocating that His Apostles take up arms against their enemies.

They needed to be fully prepared spiritually, by prayer and faith.  Such important preparations they had yet to make, as would be shown that very night in the Garden of Gethsemane.  There they failed--by using a real sword, by sleeping instead of praying, and then by fleeing in fear.  

Later in the Book of Acts Luke would show how they learned the lesson and as a result led the Church into being bold, prayerful and willingly suffering like Jesus Himself.  This is why Jesus quotes Isaiah 53:12 in reference to Himself as the Suffering Servant.  This would be His destiny, the purpose for His coming.  And if He was treated as a criminal, so would the Apostles be treated, and all the Church . . . and eventually even us.

Be Prepared For Persecutions

This is a call to war by Jesus.  It is a spiritual war, not a real war, not even primarily a cultural war.  We must be ready to fight with spiritual weapons and suffer in the body for the Gospel and the Kingdom.  

We are to speak truth, live out righteousness, and always be ready with the Gospel.  We should meet every situation with faith and confidence from our salvation.  We must pray all the time about everything and so stay alert and persevere to the very end.

Our Apostle Paul would teach and model for us the same thing, “For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:3-4)

Jesus calls His Church to wage a spiritual war and He promises us victory and glory in the end.  So, go buy a sword if you don’t have one.  Get prepared for the spiritual battle, and then get into the spiritual battle and charge ahead in prayer and proclamation!

Can We Move The Chicken To The Side?

It wasn’t too long ago I found myself in a remote village in tropical Asia.  I was traveling with three national partners when all of a sudden they decide to take a detour and check out a certain village.  

According to our standard procedure we find someone who smiles and engages us in conversation.  This day, we ask them for a tour of their village.  This takes a while.  We ask about history, stories and issues of pride.  We exchange gifts.  We eventually find ourselves ushered into a very large local ancestor worship site, especially considering the size of this village.

Idol Worship Begins

Worship begins while we are standing there.  Twelve young men unload and light up bundles of incense, unpack the chicken and other assorted offerings, and set it all up in front of the larger-than-life statues.  It is all done perfunctorily, for good luck if it might come their way.  Within a matter of ten minutes it is summed up with the lighting of a few rounds of firecrackers.  The oddest thing is that they don't seem to mind that strangers, including a foreigner, are in the shrine with them.

When the noise subsides the people just hang out for a while.  My partners and I start praying and conferring about our next move and how we might preach the Gospel in this place of idols.  The Holy Spirit starts flooding our minds with options.  It is decided that I will be the fall guy and so one of them introduces me, the foreigner, to talk about world religions and get to the uniqueness of Jesus Christ as fast as possible.   This way the translator can’t be blamed for “repeating” my words, although my partners are much better at this work than I am.

True Worship Explained

Well, by God’s grace, they are all fascinated by my summary of world history in five minutes, and my claim that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the true and only hope for us all.  I ask if they would like to watch a 15-20 minute video that would explain it all more fully.  They agree.  We forgot the video player.  No problem, they send someone off and within a few minutes procure one.  

So, then I ask, “Could we move the chicken to the side?”  I see the opportunity for irony, to replace the idol sacrifice with the true message of life.  It works, as they have no problem with the idea.  There sits the Gospel video playing right at the feet of the replica of the great ancestor couple--cool!

Four leave during the transition from my speaking to the video.  The remaining bystanders are all fascinated by the opening scenes of the video, which explain who God is and His great work of Creation.  As the story becomes more detailed about the Fall and how sin thoroughly corrupted and enslaved humanity a couple more guys peel off.  Not much longer and yet a couple more leave.  

However, the final four make it through the whole Gospel presentation and hang out for some Q & A.  In a matter of minutes though we are left talking with one young man.  But, he seems genuinely interested, has some questions and says he will give the message further thought.  This is their first hearing of the God’s Good News in Jesus Christ.

About six of the men return with massive amounts of firecrackers to resume their ancestor worship.  That effectively breaks up our conversation and forces us to end our visit, being deafeningly loud in that tiny concrete shrine.

Lessons On Prayer And Boldness

This whole experience taught me many things.  The Scripture that captured that day in the the village is 2 Corinthians 4:1-6, especially verse 4, “In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”

My good friends and national partners taught me to pray as often as I breathe for opportunities for the Gospel of Christ and the impressions of the Holy Spirit leading me where to share it.  They also taught me to sow the seed of the Gospel broadly regardless of how people respond, and without over-thinking the presentation.  

The third and most important lesson I learned that day was to preach more boldly than I have ever done before, and to do so fearlessly, giving less heed to personal safety, caution or human prudence, than I have in the past.

Prayer Is Our Real Work

We are all prone to timidity.  Timeless then, is our Apostle’s urgent appeal in Ephesians 6:18-20 to pray in the Spirit with persevering alertness for the Church’s boldness in its Gospel proclamation.  At the conclusion to the Apostle’s discussion of fighting valiantly in the spiritual war, we come to the absolutely crucial matter of prayer.

Praying in the Warfare

Ephesians 6:18 ESV “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,”

Prayer is not a piece of the armor, but it is clear that this praying belongs with the discussion above because of the participial form of “praying.”  In other words, after the soldier is outfitted for war, he is to pray a lot because the battle again is won by the Lord, not one’s skill in the battle or his spiritual merits.  

Dependent prayer accesses the power crucial for success in the spiritual war, being aware of both our spiritual goals in situations, and our very real weaknesses.  We can have real confidence going to prayer, and while praying, and then we will find real power resulting from prayer.

We are to pray at all times, at every opportunity, for the struggle never stops, for us or for others.  To pray in the Spirit means under His influence and with His guidance and assistance.  It is not a special way to pray (e.g. speaking in tongues), but a way of stating exactly what prayer is--intense spiritual activity.

In performing this constant prayer, we are to be alert in intercession for others in the war, as well.  In fact we show our love for all the saints by our prayer for them.  Alertness means perseverance and vigilance in petitioning for others according to their need.  It means keeping spiritually sharp and focused in our prayers.  

Prayer is powerfully effective in the spiritual war and does make significant gains.  The Holy Spirit guides our prayers to pray according to the will of God.  God then answers our spiritual prayers empowering His Church.  We really are accomplishing remarkable work in the Mission by praying for our church partners.

Praying for the Boldness

Ephesians 6:19–20 ESV “and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.”

The Apostle Paul is in prison in Rome and will soon have an opportunity to speak of the revealed mystery of the Gospel before Caesar or his deputy.  How important and daunting!  His chains in this passage speak more of his obligation with God for the Gospel as His ambassador.  He does not pity his difficult situation, but rather he revels in his own mission and this opportunity!

Even the Apostle Paul requests prayers on his behalf for boldness in testifying to the Gospel.  However, this is not asking out of weakness.  He does not distrust or doubt, instead he is eager to fulfill his ministry faithful to the very end.  He desires strengthening so he will know what to say and how to say it without fear.  He wants to be able to speak freely, and have powerful expression, and be clear.  He knows that the prayers of the church will be effective for this outcome and so asks for them.

So, if the great Apostle asked, then we should not be ashamed of asking for boldness, for all of us are still in the body of weakness.  Often, we all need and want prayer for the same things; and so we ask and pray such for one another.  It is true that our Gospel partners need our many prayers for their boldness; and we ourselves need theirs for us.

2 Corinthians 1:11 ESV “You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.”

Colossians 4:2–4 ESV “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.”

We Need a Renewed Understanding of the Work of Prayer

Romans 12:2 ESV “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Pastor Ben Patterson, in his book Deepening Your Conversation With God asks, “Why don’t we believe we’re getting anything done when we pray?”  He answers, “Two reasons:  the world’s view [secularism] and the world’s pace [busyness].”  The logic of secularism is busyness.  When we get busy, prayer is the first thing to go, when prayer is what will rescue us.  But, prayer is our real work--giving up on human efforts and trusting God to work.

Pastor Adoniram Judson Gordon (1836-1895) of Clarendon Street Baptist Church in Boston, a model for many of a “dynamic mission station,” put it clearly, “You can do more than pray after you have prayed; but you can never do more than pray until you have prayed.”

Clearing The Stewardship Smokescreen

This short term mission trip costs about $18,000 for the team.  Is it worth it?  That compassion project will easily run $50,000.  Is it worth it?  Supporting the long term missionary family costs about $120,000 a year.  Is it worth it?  I believe it is usually safest to say that it is worth it--and more than worth it--most of the time.

Don’t Measure the Mission by the Money 

How do we measure worth?  It depends on what work is being accomplished, perhaps uniquely by this team, that project or the missionary family.  It depends on the vision, values and commitments of the congregations involved.  To be honest, it is difficult to assess upfront all that God will cause to fall out in His gracious plans for everyone involved. 

When the question, “Is it worth it?” is brought up, usually that is not the main concern.  It is simply the money, and not the mission.  We devote way more energy to the money matters than the actual mission matters when it comes to doing mission through the local church.  

Some say the money could be better spent supporting long term missionaries, short term teams, national Christians, relief efforts or whatever, and usually the whatever is closely related to the particular mission with which the one complaining is involved.  

Arguments are made about how money could be spent more effectively, strategically, or wisely.  But, we don’t know as much about these things as we think we do, so we don’t need to spend such an inordinate amount of time on them.  

Besides, this assumes that there is a limit to the funds, which there is not.  It also assumes that the goal is more monetary than it really is.  We are to be good stewards of entrusted resources surely; but we are not the stewards of great importance we often claim.

Love the Mission More than the Money

Everyone knows that Americans love their money.  In addition, American Christians also love one another’s money, being ever so eager to advise on the best use of it for God’s work in mission.  In our churches, money discussions can make it look like we are very concerned about the mission, but often it is simply about being involved with the decisions surrounding the use of the money.  

It seems like everyone has a better way to spend the money.  But, money just isn’t that important.  God already owns it all and can move it however and whenever He so desires.  He can work without it and with it . . . and He does!

We are a successful people who also love the Mission of God.  But, we err when we seek to measure spiritual results in human terms and with worldly reasoning on effectiveness, especially cost-effectiveness.  We need to love the mission itself more than the money involved in the mission.

Give More and More and Spend More and More for the Mission

It is more of a privilege to have money and to spend it than we have yet realized.  There is great encouragement all throughout 2 Corinthians 8-9; for example, 

“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. . . . And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. . . . He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.”

Who are we doing this for?  Not ourselves, but for the mission goal, for God and His glory.  God gives us money to spend it, not to save it, or pretend that we are so wise in moving His plans forward with our skill at success in this world applied to His mission.  

What if we just spent our money in God’s mission without over-thinking it?  What if we just decided to do mission and spend the money, whatever it costs to get it done?