Let the Neighbors Be Glad - (Listen Online).
As the last sermon in this series, Pastor David reiterated the call to make disciples and the arguments about reaching “neighbors” from the previous weeks. But what about the method of actually making disciples? It is wrapped up in verses 1 Peter 2:9-10 about our identity, followed by the simple strategy in verses 1 Peter 2:11-12.
First, our Identity will drive our focus. We are a chosen people, making reference to Israel in Ex 19:5-6. A special and treasured possession(1 Pet 2:4-5). We are set apart to be radically different from the World, in our allegiance, beliefs and actions. We are called priests, ones who intercede and sacrifice for a people, as well as pray to and praise the Lord. The goal is Praise to God.
The Strategy is REALLY easy and simple to memorize – Fight Sin, do Good Deeds, Trust God!
How do we fight sin? We could run away and live in a cloister, but then we would never have a personal outreach. We could be stealthy and relate to World by living and looking like it; and the World would say that we are NO different than them. We are called to renounce the World system (Phil 3:7-8, Eph 3:8) counting Worldly gain as “loss”; and seeking a heavenly reward.
Doing Good Deeds means we do the things of God and Speak of him to others. The Good Samaritan did the first part. The Lord commended that as an example of love, preaching without words. Lest any think we are just NICE folks we need to also tell of the change that Christ is working in us and can do in them.
Trusting God - David mentioned the Theology of Sleep (a bedrock principle for farmers). Work hard and do all you can, then don't worry, but trust God for the increase. This works for farm crops and spiritual “fields” too. Live like a Child of God (life preaching), Speak of Him (verbal preaching), Trust Him (to work His will). Doing ALL for the glory of God.
--C3 Member - Steve Barrett
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