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 13, 2000

Cross to the Crown #2

Discipleship a life decision (Mat 28:18-20) to "Observe" all things commanded us. Heb 10:25 "not forsaking the assembly" is one command. Without the body -- church -- we cannot: (1) submit to authority (Heb 13:17, 1Ti 5:17, Tit 1:5); (2) celebrate ordinances (1Co 11:2); (3) be greatest witness to the world (Joh 13:35); (4) someone has to go and someone send (Mat 28:18-20); (5) body functions as a team (Act 2:41-47); (6) personal responsibility -- spiritual gift for building up of the body (1Co 12:7; Eph 4:7); (7) building up of the body (Mat 15:18, Eph 4:11); (8) obey 26 one another commands. Discipleship means: (1) childlike faith (Mat 11:28-29), study of the Word for application -- become your own student -- Christ is the focus; (2) "If you abide in My Word you are My disciples" (Joh 8:30-31, Eph 3:16, Gal 2:20). The world is our biggest judge (Joh 15:6); (3) fruit bearing (Gal 5:22-23, Joh 15:8). Baptism assumes people have been brought to saving knowledge and decision for Christ (Mat 11:28). Teaching equips. Focus is "observe" -- to keep by doing -- application.

Scripture References: Matthew 28:18-20, John 8:30-31, Matthew 11:28, John 13:35, Matthew 11:28-29, John 15:8, Titus 1:5, Ephesians 4:11, Galatians 5:22-23, Hebrews 13:17, Matthew 15:18, John 15:6, Hebrews 10:25, Ephesians 4:7, Galatians 2:20, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:41-47, Ephesians 3:16

Related Topics: Sanctification | More Messages from Gene Cunningham | Download Audio

From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"

To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.

More Messages from Gene Cunningham...

Powered by Series Engine