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 - June 9, 2000

Life of Moses #9

By faith Moses kept the Passover (Heb 11:28). 9th plague was darkness with spiritual implications -- Egyptians were afraid to even move (Exo 10:20-29). Pharaoh hardened his own heart 7 times, then finally God hardened it (Exo 10:27). Pharaoh was deluded that he was still in control (Exo 10:28). Entire duration of the plagues was likely only about 30 days. The last plague is surpassed in the Tribulation period (Rev 16:2-14) -- the purpose is redemptive. At 40 Moses thought he was adequate, but at 80 he knew he wasn't (2Co 2:16) -- humility is God's measure, learned by knowing Him (Rom 12:3, Psa 18:34, Num 12:3). Moses is great in Egypt because he completely surrendered to God (Exo 11:1-3, Mat 5:5, Psa 37:11). The curse of sin envelops the world in darkness (Exo 11:4-10, 1Co 15:22, Col 1:15). First born is significant: rights were recognized in Egypt (Gen 43:33, Gen 49:3). The curse has a cure -- redemption illustrated by the Passover (Exo 12:1-25). 1500 years before the cross, the Jews applied the blood of a lamb to their door posts in the form of a cross by personal decision (Joh 6:54). Israel left in haste with booty (Exo 12:29-39). We have riches in Christ; one day we will possess them based on the decisions we make (Eph 1:8). Redemption: purchased from the slave market of sin -- then let go. All men have been bought, but not all enjoy the benefits -- personal faith is necessary.

Scripture References: Numbers 12:3, Genesis 43:33, Hebrews 11:28, Psalms 18:34, Colossians 1:15, Ephesians 1:8, Romans 12:3, Exodus 11:4-10, Exodus 12:29-39, Revelation 16:2-14, Psalms 37:11, John 6:54, Exodus 10:28, Matthew 5:5, Exodus 12:1-25, Exodus 10:27, Exodus 11:1-3, Genesis 49:3, Exodus 10:20-29

More Messages from Gene Cunningham | Download Audio

From Series: "Life of Moses"

After 40 years in the Egyptian palace then 40 years in the desert then 40 years leading Israel to their land Moses' life can actually teach us about living in the time we live.

More Messages from Gene Cunningham...

Powered by Series Engine