Paul shared with the Ephesians that the goal of discipleship was to grow to maturity, and from that posture, we would be able to speak the truth to each other in love. Today, the only thing that people want to hear is what makes them happy, or only what they agree with. Paul said that in the last days, people would have itching ears: 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. We are seeing this today. It’s time to grow up in Christ and put away anything that would turn one away from the truth. Jesus called Himself the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let’s speak the truth in love, and help others to find the truth!
Ephesians 4:15 – Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is, Christ.
Hello good morning Pastor Nazario, loved your daily inspiration. Thank you.
It is interesting how I was comtemplating a similar theme for homework during the same time of your post.
Please see below:
“Story” consist of specific information about a persons life, from the beginning, middle, and end (Pettit, 2008). It is telling ones life story. Several questions can be asked and responses explored to provide feedback about a persons life. Revealing information that usually would be unseen without careful examination. Life story, witnesses to the strengths, weakness, and Gods path for a person. Allowing transparency through the sharing of experiences and feelings with others (Pettit, 2008). Building community and trust through the sharing and breaking down of beliefs systems, culture, mistakes, fears, and shame. Illustrating the verse “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome (John 1:5). The Holy Spirit can take over and transform the speakers and audiences heart and mind, through the disclosure. For example many times domestic violence survivors seem aggressive, dismissive, and distant. The traits are displayed as defense mechanisms, as a way to protect themselves from being abused again.
Overall this is different from preaching and spiritual formation in one’s own ministry. Preaching Gods word is transformative in itself, through the holy spirit. It is stated, that in the beginning God was the Word (John 1:1). As a result when the Word is preached, God through the Holy Spirit can transform a person. As Jesus went around preaching, he was able to plant seeds that for some manifested quickly into their ministry and for others it took longer. This was all, because of their desire and commitment to the Lord. Verses a hardened heart that is resistant and closed to the Word. For that individual it may take longer to create inner change if at all. For example a domestic violence survivor may be transformed by attending church and listening to the pastor who shares the Word of God. The pastors teaching, in the form of principles and story telling makes a huge difference in the life of the vulnerable person. Interestingly enough the application of these “truths” can facilitate in the transformation of the person. Renewing the spirit and life, while helping them make better life enhancing decisions. As the person grows in the lords word, becoming a happier and fulfilled person. Breaking generational cycles and developing “grace based patterns of living” (Pettit, 2008).
Overall telling ones story and preaching Gods word are both great tools. However evidence proves that doing so, by sharing Gods word is more effective. Therefore understanding ones mission and vision as they go forth, into the world is vital for their own survival and that of others.
Bibliography
Pettit, Paul. Foundations of Spiritual Formation: A Community Approach to Becoming Like Christ. Grand Rapids: Kregel Publications, 2008.
Thank you for these great thoughts sister Tasha. I love this paragraph: Overall telling ones story and preaching Gods word are both great tools. However evidence proves that doing so, by sharing Gods word is more effective. Therefore understanding ones mission and vision as they go forth, into the world is vital for their own survival and that of others.
I decided years ago that I have to be myself when sharing on Godly principles. I utilize God’s word and personal stories and testimonies on an ongoing basis. Jesus is the Master Storyteller. He used the Scriptures and relevant stories, parables, history, and cultural explanations so that the hearers could more easily understand the Scriptures. Keep up the good work! Blessings. Pastor Victor