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 25

"Reasonable service" = "worship" (Rom 12:1). We dedicate our life to Him. Everything He asks, He has a right to. The first mention of the word "worship" (Gen 22:1-18). God wants to bless us through testing; requirement on us is availability (Gen 22:1). Worship involves a price; for Abraham it was Isaac. Worship involves a witness, readiness (Gen 22:3). Worship involves the mundane (e.g. chopping wood), and obedience (e.g. geographic, action, attitude - Gen 22:4-5, Heb 11:19) Jesus told the Pharisees they did not have faith like Abraham (Joh 8:56, Gal 3:8, Gen 22:4). Isaac had to trust his dad (Gen 22:6-9). "God will supply Himself a Lamb" (Gen 22:7-8, Joh 1:29, Gen 22:13). God's request of Abraham was reasonable; He provided Isaac by Grace in the first place. He was acceptable to God because of living sacrifice (Gen 22:12, Rom 12:1, Jam 2:23). We can enter to worship in the daily, mundane things. True worship results in blessing and reward.

Scripture References: Genesis 22:1-18, Galatians 3:8, Genesis 22:12, Romans 12:1, John 8:56, Genesis 22:13, Hebrews 11:19, John 1:29, Genesis 22:4-5, Genesis 22:7-8, Genesis 22:3, Genesis 22:6-9, James 2:23, Genesis 22:1, Genesis 22:4, Romans 12:1

More Messages from Gene Cunningham | Download Audio

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.

More Messages from Gene Cunningham...

Powered by Series Engine