As iron sharpens iron,
one person sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17)
One of the marks of a Christian is a desire to share the good news of the life-transforming gospel with others. In the words of the apostles, “We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). But what if a friend, fellow worker, schoolmate, or family member asks us to desist? Does there come a time when we should refrain from speaking to a person about Jesus and Christianity?
“A lot of smart people—including many who have made a career helping the ‘least and the lost’ in our broken world—say the answer to that question is ‘no.’” - Religion Unplugged
“In a statement, Cedarville University President Thomas White identified junior Grace Maxwell as one of the victims of the tragedy near Reagan National Airport” - CPost
“Do I think of myself as a leader before I seriously think about my sinfulness? …Do I so see myself in charge that I consider too little the truth that the church belongs to Christ?…Am I living for my recognition or Jesus’ recognition?” - Chuck Lawless
“You listen far more than say anything… Being present is the key ministry gift we give to those we minister.” - The Baptist Paper
“We have people sitting in the pews … women have had abortions. But it’s not something I’m going to tell anyone unless I trust them deeply….. I really am not going to share with my pastor, because I’m afraid what he’s going to think about me.” - Seminary Viewpoints
“While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to helping people face a problem with pornography, there does seem to be a consensus on what people perceive to be the most effective solutions.” - Barna
In Romans 11:13, the Apostle Paul inserts a short but pointed phrase which has the power both to convict and to inspire. He wrote simply: “I magnify my ministry.”
It seems that such a personal and dynamic statement may be better understood when it is exemplified than when it is exposited. But it has captured my imagination, and I thought that I would share a few thoughts on the subject—for my own sake, as well as those who read them.
“projects now take less time and often transcend geographical barriers, connecting people from opposite corners of the globe…. volunteers—whether full-time or with just a few hours to spare—can contribute meaningfully to this mission.” - C.Leaders
“while I argue expository preaching is to be most common, other approaches have their place. I would say expository preaching is primary but preaching that is ultimately biblical can come in other forms as well.” - Ed Stetzer
Discussion