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 - January 8, 2000

The Divine Mentor #5

Psa 23:1-6 He is our Shepard -- we have a personal relationship with Him (Heb 12:1). No matter how we get wounded He has purpose (Job. 5:8-19). "..though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I'll fear no evil". We meet our fears with faith (Psa 56:3). We fear no evil because: (1) God works all things together for our good if we love Him (Rom 8:28, Gen 50:20); (2) 1Co 10:13 says there is no trial too great for us to bear; (3) 1Pe 1:6-9 says every trial can purify our faith; (4) Rom 8:31 and Rom 8:37 say that all sufferings are designed for blessing; (5) Eph 6:10-18 says if we are dressed in the armor of God; (6) 1Pe 3:13-15 those that follow good cannot be harmed. "for You are with me". Jesus Christ will never turn His back on us (Heb 13:5-6, Rom 8:38-39); we have His Spirit in us as evidence. Psa 84:5-12 - Blessed are we whose strength is Him, and whose heart is set on being with God (1Pe 2:11). The experience of believers (Psa 84:7) is "strength to strength", "faith to faith", and from "glory to glory" (2Co 3:18, 2Co 4:16-17). Psa 23:4 "Your rod and staff comfort me" refers to protection and discipline (Heb 12:5-11).

Scripture References: Genesis 50:20, Psalms 84:5-12, Romans 8:28, Romans 8:38-39, Psalms 56:3, Hebrews 13:5-6, Job 5:8-19, Ephesians 6:10-18, Hebrews 12:5-11, Hebrews 12:1, Romans 8:37, Psalms 23:4, Psalms 23:1-6, Romans 8:31, Psalms 84:7

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From Series: "The Divine Mentor"

The Divine Mentor is God the Holy Spirit. God answered Jesus' prayer to provide us the Spirit not just to be with us but in us -- to pray with us labor with us to guide us teach us and equip us -- the goal being that we'd be prepared for the troubled times in which we live.

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