Some may ask, “Why should we study the missionary methods of Paul? Surely, in all this time, we have grown beyond his old ways and have found better ways of accomplishing ministry.”
To this I would say, look around at the condition of the church at large throughout the world today, and see if you can find a model of success that compares to Paul. Yes, we have our “mega-churches.” They have huge congregations and lots of money, but are they successful in the sight of God? Are they raising up a generation of mature, Bible-instructed believers? I think not. The ignorance of the average believer today is astounding. Many cannot even give a clear presentation of the Gospel message.
In a recent survey across the United States, only about 13% of regular church goers said that they believe in hell, and about the same number doubted the inspiration and infallibility of the Bible. The church as a whole is in a shambles, and the reason is that we have forsaken the God-given way—exemplified by Paul—to achieve the great commission of “making disciples of all nations” (Mat 28:19).

Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000

Living Sacrifice 15

God made promises to Israel -- Rom 11:1-6 asks has God's word failed? Paul was from the tribe of Benjamin: his point was that God hasn't rejected His people because he is an example of the remnant (Rom 11:1-2, Phi 3:3-8). "foreknew" in Rom 11:2 is first used in Acts 2:23; God chose Israel in eternity past because He foreknew His predetermined plan (in the sense of accomplishment of His plan) (Heb 13:8). God knew ahead of time and He sees it as accomplished (Rom 8:29, 1Pe 1:1-2, Rev 13:8, Rev 17:8). Elijah as example in intercession (Rom 11:2-3, 1Ki 19:14); God's reply is that He has kept a remnant for Himself (Rom 11:4-5). The remnant exists for God in His sovereignty will, but those who are in the remnant have responded to God -- "according to His election of grace" (Rom 11:5, Eph 2:8). "If by grace then no more of works" it can't be both (Rom 11:6).

Scripture References: Acts 2:23, Romans 11:4-5, Romans 11:2, Romans 11:2-3, Philippians 3:3-8, Revelation 17:8, Romans 11:1-2, Revelation 13:8, Romans 11:6, Romans 11:1-6, Romans 8:29, Ephesians 2:8, Hebrews 13:8, Romans 11:5

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From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"

Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.

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