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 - April 8, 2000
Simplicity in Christ #2
2Co 11:3—The devil is "crafty"; he is working every angle. Adam and Eve had the ultimate in simplicity, but what we have today is much better. Simplicity means devotion, "if your eye is single." This leads to purity. Hapote in the Greek translated, "simplicity," means "purity, devotion, or single-mindedness." Col 3:22; Eph 6:5; Mat 6:22; 2Co 1:12-13; and Luk 11:34, all point to "godly sincerity" as our need for focus on Him. There's a freeness to give in simplicity. Grace is that way—open-handed, extravagant (Rom 12:8; Jam 1:5). Simplicity is a lifestyle (2Co 1:12-13). Life applies God's grace. There are no hidden motives with Paul. When truth is the guide and grace is the motivation, you have simplicity. Without that you are enslaved (Gal 5:1-9).
Scripture References: Matthew 6:22, Ephesians 6:5, Colossians 3:22, Galatians 5:1-9, James 1:5, Romans 12:8, Luke 11:34
From Series: "2018 AYC Ladies Classes"
Nan Cunningham spoke to the ladies at the 2018 AYC Camp.