Recently I was a delegate at a conference and the guest speaker began her presentation with a description of different mind sets of people who come to any "learning" experience (i.e conferences).I found it fascinating and hope to stimulate your thoughts as well :
1. The first category of people are "PRISONERS" people who had no choice in being at a particular course, they are there because they were told to be there ( or in Salvation Army culture..appointed to be there .)
2. The next category of people are the ''VACATIONERS" , these are the people who will do anything to just get out of the office or regular place of service or employment. These people really don't care about what they are learning , they are just glad it is not the mundane , normal, routine .
3. The next category of people are the ''SILVER BULLET PEOPLE'' these friends are the ones who really do not want any frills or detailed concepts they simply are seeking the straight answer (short, sharp & shiny ), and they want to know that it works ! No mess , no vague concepts ....just the answer (NOW).In reality one agenda , unfortunately it can be for their own glory.
4. The last category of people are the ''LISTENERS & LEARNERS", these people are there to really learn in order to make a difference in their place of service.....they are humble enough to really listen and to be prepared to learn, whatever it takes.
I would suggest to you today that there could possibly be similarly types of people in the church of Jesus Christ , sadly some feel when they serving , worshipping , or in any way engaged in the church that they really feel trapped , there is no authentic joy , peace or purpose.
The vacationers seem to be present to ...these are the people who are along for the 'ride' enjoying the entertainment , unfortunately merely spectators when actually Jesus has called them to be participants in His service.
The silver bullet people need to understand that whilst JESUS IS THE ANSWER there is a process when we are calling ourselves Disciples of Jesus ...the process and unfolding aspects of obedience ....growth ...obedience again ...growth ...and more obedience. Realising that continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedience in Christ is more than a nice thought , it actually is a biblical reality.
Bless God there are also the listeners and learners in the church of Jesus , these are the people who seem to get IT , they understand that to hear the voice of Jesus is more important than there own ideas and to learn from the Word of God and the Words of Jesus is the only way to really have His life , His heart , His purpose fulfilled in a way that will bring glory to God and extend the Kingdom .
Today I would ask you where do you see yourselves when it comes to your expression of faith in Jesus ? And if you find yourself in any other category than the LISTENER or LEARNER then are you able to step up to the challenge of authentic Christianity as Jesus calls us to in His WORD .
Blessings to you today .....praying for you each !
MARNEY
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