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 20, 2003

The Word Working In You #3

1st Thessalonians - The Word Working in You - Uniontown PA 2007

Well-rounded Christian life Faith, Love, Hope. The work of Faith is transformation. It takes a family (Spirit, Father, Son) to illustrate love - "Mother" (1TH 2:7), "Father" (1TH 2:11), and "Child" (1TH 2:17- see JOH 14:18). See also EPH 3:15. Note the book of Ruth ends with a mother, father and child! Five crowns: (1) Incorruptible crown (1Co 9:25-27); (2) Crown of Life -- for faithful endurance (Jam 1:12, Rev 2:10) ; (3) Crown of Joy -- faithful witness (Phi , 1Th 2:19); (4) Crown of Righteousness - love His appearing -- to live in the light of eternity (2Ti 4:8); (5) Crown of Glory -- for faithful ministry (1Pe 5:4). Chapter 3 (1Th 3:1-13) concerns the steadfastness of Biblical hope; illustrated Ruth chapter 2:17-20. Ruth is a picture of thoughtfulness -- from her service she begins to have hope - confidence in the future. "Stand fast" (1Th 3:8)

Conference notes for this series can be found [HERE] 

Scripture References: Ephesians 3:15, John 14:18, Revelation 2:10, James 1:12

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From Series: "1st Thessalonians - The Word Working in You - Uniontown PA 2007"

The Word Working in You' is a study in 1st Thessalonians recorded at Uniontown PA on 19-20 October 2007. The primary focus of the Paul's epistles to the Thessalonians written A.D. 50-51 is Christian living in light of eternity which results in balance. The 'bookends' of 1Th 1:3 and 1Th 5:8 reveal the book's theme: the well-balanced Christian life. The book also teaches that God's Word works through faith. Interestingly this epistle is closely related in content to the Old Testament book of Ruth which provides a perfect biblical illustration of the practical truths of this book.

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