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 - December 21, 1998
Upper Room Discourse #1
John chapters 13 - 17 is among the most critical portion of scripture because it outlines fellowship like epistle of 1st John (1Jo 1:1-3). Inclusio Book ends: a) Joh 13:1 "He loved them to the uttermost (end)" (Heb 17:25); b) Joh 17:25-26 "...that the love with which you loved me will be in them". Signs are spiritual lessons; John writes of eight signs -- the last and most important being the resurrection.
Scripture References: John 13:1, John 1:1-3, John 17:25-26, Hebrews 17:25
From Series: "The Upper Room"
Originally given in Tucson AZ in August 2007 this series amplifies the crux of Christian doctrine as delivered by Jesus to His disciples in John chapters 13 through 17 - the Upper Room.