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 - February 7, 2003
The Transforming Power of Abiding in Christ (PA conf. #1)
Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE]
From Series: "1st John - The Transforming Power of Abiding in Christ - Northern VA 2007"
This series details John's description of our being 'in Him' - abiding in Christ. This contrasts Paul's use of the phrase expressing positional truth. The key verse is 1Jo 2:6 'He who says he abides in Him ought to walk just as He walked.' The series opens many truths in 1st John while covering the entire epistle.