Food for Thought: "Paul intentionally looked for ways to find common ground with individuals he came across in his work. He made it a point to meet them where they were in an attempt to make a connection that could lead to a chance to share the gospel. He understood the power of his own spiritual freedom, but he also understood the importance of putting all that on the back burner to minister. Paul’s service wasn’t motivated by his personal gain or by a desire to feel better about himself. He simply wanted to help as many people as possible—and he was willing to do whatever it took to make that happen. I’m not sure we see that kind of commitment in the church today. Too often, we expect unbelievers to come to us, to adopt our way of thinking and acting, before we accept them. Paul—and Jesus—took a different approach. They allowed people to “belong” before they “believed.” Our attempts at service today would do well to follow the model they provided. Application Point: We are called to love and serve the world around us as part of our service to God. Instead of seeing unbelievers as “outsiders” or “beyond reach,” ask God to help you meet people where they are." (Excerpt from "Opt In", YOU Fall 2013)
Posted on: Tue, 13 Aug 2013 21:32:47 +0000
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