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Prepare for Effective Discipleship Ministry

4/13/2020

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Sam and Joe get together practicing social distancing. “I’m overwhelmed with the worldwide need,” Sam said. “How can I make a dent?”

Joe said, “God’s word says in Colossians 1:28 that we should see everyone complete in Christ. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be concerned about physical and emotional needs.”

“I’ve never done anything like that before,” Sam said. “I’m fearful that I might do the wrong thing. What if people think I’m one of those Jesus freaks? I’m not a Bible scholar.”

“It’s simpler than you think, Sam,” Joe said. “It begins with renewing your mind in God’s word and loving others. God will then open up divine opportunities, beyond anything you’ve ever imagined!”

“That doesn’t sound complicated, Sam said. “I can do that!”

Put Christ first (Colossians 1-2) and prepare spiritually for an effective discipleship ministry (Colossians 3-4). This blog examines spiritual preparation and ministry effectiveness. Put off the old self and put on the new self by renewing your mind richly in God’s word in order to love others. Family and work provide natural opportunities for ministry. Prayer opens the door to share God’s word with wisdom and grace, encourage people to help others grow in Christ, create interactive small groups, and guide people to fulfill God’s ministry.

 1. Put off the Old Self and Put on the New Self
Set your minds on things above where Christ was seated at God’s right hand. Embrace your position in Christ: you died and your real life is hidden in Christ where you will appear with Him in glory. Put to death your earthly nature and idolatry including sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed causing God's wrath. Put off the old self of anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language and lying. Put on the new self with mind renewed according to Christ’s image (Colossians 3:1-11). Put off the old self and put on the new self with mind renewed in God's word.

2. Put on Love Allowing God's Word to Dwell Richly
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  Forgive grievances against one another. Put on love being united together. Let Christ’s peace and thankfulness rule in your hearts as members of one body. Allow Christ’s word dwell richly in you while teaching and admonishing others with all wisdom. Sing psalms and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Do everything in word or deed in Jesus’ name thanking God (Colossians 3:12-17). Put on love by allowing God's word to dwell richly in you through teaching, admonishing and expressing gratitude.

As you renew your mind in God’s word and love others, God will open up amazing opportunities for ministry.

3. Submit to Family and Work Authorities
Wives should submit to their husbands as fitting in the Lord. Husbands should love their wives and not be harsh. Children should obey their parents in everything to please God. Fathers, don’t embitter your children lest they become discouraged. Employees should obey their bosses in everything with sincerity of heart and reverence of the Lord. By working heartily serving Christ and not men, employees will receive an eternal inheritance as a reward. Those doing wrong will suffer consequences. Bosses do what was right and fair because they have a Master in heaven (Colossians 3:18-4:1). Submit to family and work authorities to build ministry relationships and earn heavenly reward. 

4. Pray for Open Doors to Share God's Word
Be watchful, thankful and devoted to prayer. Ask God to open doors in proclaiming clearly the mystery of Christ. Make the most of every opportunity speaking with clarity, wisdom, and grace (Colossians 4:2-6). Pray for open doors to share God’s word with clarity, wisdom and grace.


5. Encourage People to Help Others Grow in Christ
Paul sent Tychicus and Onesimus to encourage Philippians about his circumstances. Aristarchus, Mark and Justus sent greetings as the only Jews among his kingdom fellow workers who comforted Paul. Epaphras always wrestled in prayer for them to stand firm, fully assured, and mature in God's will. Luke, the doctor, and Demas sent greetings (Colossians 4:7-14). Encourage people to pray, work together, and help others grow in Christ.

6. Create Interactive Small Groups
Paul sent greetings to the Laodicea’s and Nympha’s house churches. He asked that his letter be read to both places, along with the Laodiceans’ response letter
(Colossians 4:15-16). Create interactive small groups.

7. Guide People to Fulfill God’s Ministry
Paul wanted them to tell Archippus to complete the Lord’s work he received (Colossians 4:17-18).  Guide people to fulfill God’s ministry.

Action Steps:

I will prayerfully consider the following process in preparing for an effective discipleship ministry:
1.   I will put off the old self and put on the new self by renewing my mind in God's word
2.   I will put on love by letting God's word richly dwell in me as I teach, admonish and express gratitude
3.   I will submit to delegated family and work authorities to build ministry relationships and earn heavenly reward
4.   I will be prayerful so God opens doors to speak God's word with clarity, wisdom, and grace
5.   I will encourage people to pray, work together, and help others grow in Christ
6.   I will participate and help create interactive small groups
7.   I will guide people to fulfill God’s ministry

​In order to apply concepts from Colossians 3-4 for your personal ministry:
  • “Download” “6 Fields Discipleship Strategy Worksheet” after clicking on https://bit.ly/6fields so you can fill out the Word document 
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How to Regain Purpose and Hope

4/29/2019

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Our mission agency, Christ For the City Int’l, spent a day serving during our bi-annual board meetings. During lunch, I sat down next to a man eating alone. I asked, “How’s your day going?”

After an awkward pause, he opened up. I sensed a melancholy spirit. He said his wife of 34 years died in his arms four years ago. She was the love of his life with a “beautiful spirit inside and out.”

This man turned to alcohol and his life spiraled out of control. He remarried, but temporarily lost touch with his second wife. I prayed out loud. Tears seeped out of his eyes. This man once had been a deacon in an evangelical church, but now seemed to have lost all hope.

How do we lose purpose and hope? How do we regain it?

We find a clue in Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness, mentioned three times (Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-12). He was led by the Spirit and tempted by the devil. The first was self-gratification (lust of the flesh). If you’re the Son of God, meet the physical need by turning stones into bread. Jesus, like us, need God’s word to withstand the temptation (Matthew 4:1-4).

The second temptation was self-promotion (lust of the eyes). The devil had Jesus stand on the highest point of the temple and throw Himself down. The devil twisted Scripture. Jesus said not to put God to the test (Matthew 4:5-7).

The third temptation was self-exaltation (boastful pride of life). The devil showed all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor so Jesus would worship him. Jesus said to worship and serve God only (Matthew 4:8-11).

Before the temptations, Jesus had a mountain top experience--heaven was opened, saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and heard an affirming voice of unconditional love from heaven (Matthew 3:16-17). When things go well and you feel blessed, beware the devil will blast you with chaos, confusion, and criticism.

After the temptations, Jesus preached, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Jesus told Peter. Andrew, James, and John to follow Him to become fishers of men. (Matthew 4:17-22). The devil doesn’t want you to share the gospel or disciple others. 
 
On the encouraging side, angels, ministering spirits to serve believers, helped Jesus and will attend to you (Mark 1:12-13; Hebrews 1:14).

If we resist temptation, share our faith and begin discipling others, evil forces will come against us. We must walk in Christ’s authority and drive out evil spirits (Mark 1:21-28). 

​Because we’re in a spiritual battle, we must fight with the spiritual weapons of prayer and God’s word.
  • It’s important we follow the example of Jesus and pray, preferably early in the morning (Mark 1:35).
The devil is crafty and leaves us until an opportune time. He knows our weaknesses. In Jesus’ case, everyone praised Him as the word got around (Luke 4:13-15). Seeking the praise of others may prevent us from sharing the gospel and discipling others.   

Don’t love the world, which include the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and boastful pride of life. Those who do God’s will live forever (1 John 2:15-17).

The greatest purpose and hope we have in life are to follow Jesus in catching men for Him.
​
To read past blogs, go to https://www.markpomeroy.com/ 

​
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Equip Spiritually Healthy People to Disciple the Needy (Insights in Prophets)

4/28/2013

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In order to equip spiritually healthy people to disciple the needy, grow nations with inter-generational mentoring by encouraging families to mourn over sin that motivates prayer, transform young people into spiritual jewels who attract others through family and friend accountability for character development, and develop  model cities so other nations seek God as king over every area of life.

Develop Model Cities So Other Nations Seek God
God told Zechariah He was jealous and dwelt in Jerusalem, called the City of Truth and Holy Mountain. Both old and young people sat in the streets enjoying themselves. God would bring people from various nations to live, build the temple in Jerusalem and be a blessing as they experienced fruitfulness. Instead of fear, they loved truth and experienced peace with one another and in the courts. The inhabitants of many cities came to Jerusalem to seek God. Ten men from all languages and nations would say to one Jew, "Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you" (Zech. 8:1-23). Develop model cities so other nations seek God and His truth. 

Transform Young People Into Spiritual Jewels Who Attract Others
The word of the Lord was against Hadrach and His eye was on all mankind. He would remove Tyre's possessions and destroy her power on the seas causing surrounding nations to fear. Foreigners occupied Ashdod and God destroyed the Philistines' pride. Those left became Judah's leaders and He defended His house against enemy oppression. Zechariah prophesied that Jesus would come on a donkey bringing righteousness and salvation. God destroyed Ephraim's chariots and Jerusalem's war-horses. He proclaimed peace, extended His rule and freed prisoners across the world. 
God saved them as His flock to sparkle like jewels in a crown, being attractive and beautiful. Grain and new wine made young men and women thrive, respectively (Zech. 9:1-17). Transform young people into thriving spiritual jewels attracting others as you proclaim Christ.  

Grow Nations with Inter-Generational Mentoring
Zechariah said to ask God for rain in springtime to grow plants. Idols spoke deceit and diviners told false dreams that gave vain comfort. People wandered like sheep and were oppressed without a shepherd. God's anger burned against the shepherds. He cared for Judah to make them like a proud horse in battle. Judah brought the cornerstone, tent peg, battle bow and every ruler to be like mighty men trampling the muddy streets in battle. God strengthened, saved and restored Judah with compassion. The Ephraimites became like mighty men with glad hearts influencing their children to rejoice in God. He strengthened them in the Lord to walk in His name (Zech. 10:1-12). Grow nations in Christ with inter-generational mentoring.  

Equip Spiritually Healthy People to Disciple the Needy
Zechariah said to hear the shepherds wailing because the lack of spiritually mature people led to the destruction of rich pastures. He handed them over to his neighbor and king who pastured the flock marked for slaughter hoping to become rich. He shepherded the oppressed of the flock with two staffs called Favor and Union. In one month he got rid of three shepherds. He broke the staff called Favor revoking the covenant made with the nations. The afflicted of the flock paid him 30 pieces of silver and he threw it into the house of the Lord to the potter. He then broke his second staff called Union breaking the brotherhood between Judah and Israel. The took again the foolish shepherd's equipment who did not care for the lost, seek the young, heal the injured or feed the healthy but ate the choice sheep. He pronounced woe to render the worthless shepherd powerless because he deserted the flock (Zech. 11:1-17). Equip spiritually healthy people to disciple the needy with compassion and unity. 

Encourage Families Mourning Over Sin to Motivate Prayer
God was going to make Jerusalem an immovable rock before all nations. He would make Judah's leaders like a firepot in a woodpile and flaming torch among sheaves to destroy all nations that attacked them. God poured out on the house of David and Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They would look, mourn and grieve bitterly over the one they pierced. Great weeping in Jerusalem occurred clan by clan with their wives (Zech. 12:1-14). Encourage families to mourn their sin so God can pour out grace and intercession.  

Design Family and Friend Accountability for Character Development
On that day, a fountain was opened to the house of David and Jerusalem that cleansed them from sin and banished idols from the land. God removed the prophets and spirit of impurity from the land with accountability to parents. Every false prophet admitted he deceived others and received wounds from his friends. God purified the one-third left as a remnant through fire. He refined them like silver and tested them like gold. They called on His name and He answered them as His people (Zech. 13:1-9). Design family and friend accountability for character development.   

Worship God as King Over Every Area of Life for Fruitfulness
Plunder was divided in the day of the Lord. Nations fought and captured Jerusalem with half going into exile and the rest remaining. The Lord fought against those nations and His feet stood on the Mount of Olives splitting it in two from east to west, forming a great valley. They would flee without daytime or nighttime. Living water would flow out from Jerusalem, half to the eastern sea and half to the western sea in summer and winter. The Lord would be king over the whole earth. Jerusalem would be inhabited, never again destroyed. The nations who fought against Jerusalem would have their flesh, eyes and tongue rot. They had great panic and attacked each other. The nations collected their wealth, worshiped the King yearly in Jerusalem and celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles to prevent the plague of no rain. Every person and article would be holy to the Lord (Zech. 14:1-21). Worship God as king over every area of life for fruitfulness.

In order to equip spiritually healthy people to disciple the needy, do the following:
1. Grow nations in Christ with inter-generational mentoring 
2. Encourage families to mourn over sin that motivates prayer
3. Transform young people into spiritual jewels who attract others 
4. Design family and friend accountability for character development
5. Develop  model cities so other nations seek God and His truth
6. Worship God as king over every area of life
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Choose Spiritual Leaders Who Practice and Teach God's Word (Insights in Prophets)

4/4/2013

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The following describe how to choose spiritual leaders who practice and teach God's word:
1. Follow God's Word to form an intimate relationship with Him as you surrender and confess your sins daily to God
2. Experience God's glory as you pray together to bear fruit-bearing disciples that heal people in all nations through the Holy Spirit
3. Follow God's word in organizing how the body of Christ prays together to let Christ have first place in the church and city

Follow God's Word in Organizing How the Body of Christ Prays Together
Ezekiel saw a wall surrounding the temple area. A man measured from the east gate to the outer court including the wall; threshold of the gate; alcoves for the guard; portico, width of the entrance and projecting walls inside the gateway. He measured the outer court from the inside of the lower gateway to the outside of the inner court. He measured the north gate, south gate and gates to the inner court. In the portico of the gateway contained two tables where burnt, sin, and guilt offerings were slaughtered. Outside the inner gate within the inner court were two rooms for Levites, sons of Zadok, in charge of the temple and altar (Ezek. 40:1-47). Follow God's word in organizing how the body of Christ prays together.

Experience God's Glory as You Pray Together
The man measured the temple including the portico, entrance, projecting walls, and outer and inner sanctuary, considered the Most Holy Place. On the doors of the outer sanctuary were carved cherubim and palm trees like those carved on the walls. The north and south rooms facing the temple courtyard were the priests' rooms where they ate the grain, sin and guilt offerings. They did not go into the outer court until they left behind their ministry garments. He measured inside the temple area along with the east, north, south and west side. A wall separated the holy from the common. Ezekiel saw the glory of the God of Israel enter the temple through the gate facing east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters and the land was radiant with His glory. The Spirit lifted and brought him into the inner court and God's glory filled the temple (Ezek. 40:48-43:5). Experience God's glory as you pray together in the body of Christ. 

Follow God's Word to Form an Intimate Relationship with Him
A man inside the temple said this was the place of his throne and for the soles of his feet to live among the Israelites forever. They never again defiled His holy name by spiritual adultery and idols so that God could live among them forever. The man described the temple so Ezekiel could share it with Israel in order for them to be ashamed of their sins. Ezekiel wrote down the design of the temple and measurements of the altar, its arrangements, exits, entrances, regulations and laws so they could follow the plan. God told him the regulations for sacrificing burnt offerings and sprinkling blood on the altar. A young bull would be burned in the designated part of the  temple area as a sin offering by the Levites, of the family of Zadok.  Ezekiel put blood on the four horns of the altar, four corners of the upper ledge and around the rim to purify and make atonement for it. On the second day, he offered a male goat without defect for a sin offering with the altar purified. For seven days he offered a male goat daily for a sin offering to be accepted by God. From the eighth day on, the priests presented the burnt and fellowship offerings on the altar (Ezek. 43:6-27). Follow God's word to form a pure, surrendered and intimate relationship with Him among His people. 

Choose Spiritual Leaders Who Practice and Teach God's Word 
The outer gate of the sanctuary remained shut because the God of Israel entered through it. The prince entered and left by the portico of the gateway. Ezekiel saw God's glory filling the temple. He told Ezekiel to listen closely concerning the temple's regulations regarding its entrance and sanctuary exits. Rebellious Israel brought uncircumcised foreigners in heart and flesh into God's sanctuary. They put others in charge of it. Levites who worshiped idols bore sin's consequences by not coming near to serve as priests or with the holy offerings. Descendants of Zadok who faithfully carried out their duties could enter the inner court and minister before God wearing linen clothes, turbans and undergarments. They taught His people the difference between the holy and the common and distinguish between the unclean and clean. The priests judge disputes according to God's ordinances (Ezek. 44:1-31). Choose spiritual leaders who practice and teach God's word to others.

Surrender and Confess Your Sins Daily to God
They assigned the Most Holy Place to part of the land as the sacred portion for the priests and an adjoining portion for Israel. God told them to use accurate scales. One sheep was taken from every flock of 200 for grain, burnt and fellowship offerings to make atonement for Israel. The prince provided sin, burnt, grain, drink and fellowship offerings. The priest used blood of the sin offering on the temple doorposts, four corners of upper ledge of the altar and gateposts of the inner court. A sin offering was done on the seventh day of the month for anyone who sinned unintentionally or through ignorance. On the Sabbath, the inner court gate was opened for the priest to sacrifice the burnt (six male lambs and a ram without defect) and fellowship offerings while the people worshiped in God's presence at the entrance. Every day a year-old lamb without defect and a grain offering (sixth of an ephah with a third of a hin of oil to moisten the flour) was sacrificed as a regular burnt offering. Ezekiel saw the sacred rooms where the priests cooked the guilt and sin offerings and baked the grain offerings. He saw the kitchens in the outer court where they cooked the sacrifices of the people (Ezek. 45:1-46:24). Surrender and confess your sins daily to God so you can prepare spiritual people.

Bear Fruit-Bearing Disciples that Heal People in All Nations
Ezekiel saw water coming from under the threshold of the temple. While measuring the temple, the water went from ankle-deep to deep enough for swimming so no one could cross. Water became fresh when it emptied into the Dead Sea revealing large numbers of living fish with fishermen standing from En Gedi to En Eglaim spreading nets. The leaves on fruit trees did not wither or fruit that grew on both banks of the river remained because water flowed from the sanctuary. Their fruit was served for food and the leaves for healing. God revealed the boundaries of the land divided as an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel. It ran from the Mediterranean Sea, Damascus, along Jordan and Wadi of Egypt. Aliens with children were considered as native-born Israelites (Ez. 47:1-23). Bear fruit-bearing disciples that heal people in all nations through the Holy Spirit.

Let Christ Have First Place in Church and City
The twelve tribes and their boundaries were listed. Bordering Judah from east to west was a sacred portion with the sanctuary in the center for the consecrated priests, the Zadokites who were faithful in serving God. The priests had territory in the best of the land holy to the Lord. The remaining area was for common use of the city including houses and pastureland to supply food for the workers. What remained on both sides of the area formed by the sacred portion and city property belonged to the prince between  the border of Judah and Benjamin. The exits of the city had gates named after the tribes of Israel. The name of the city was the Lord is there (Ez. 48:1-35). Let Christ have first place in the life of the church and city. 

Rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 with one being the lowest and ten the highest for the following statements:
1. I surrender daily to God through unceasing prayer
2. I confess my sins daily to God
3. I pray with others
4. I am committed to applying God's word to my life
5. I rely on the power of the Holy Spirit
6. I teach God's word to others
7. I am committed to making disciples
8. I work with a team to see the church pray together across racial and denominational lines so Christ can have first place in the city

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Equip Older Men and Women To Disciple Young People (Insights in NT)

3/27/2013

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Elders should lay a foundation of sound doctrine and focus on teaching older men and women so they can disciple young people in godly living to attract others to Christ. 

Appoint Godly Elders To Oversee God's Work
Paul was an apostle of Jesus Christ for the knowledge of truth that led to godliness. It rested on the hope of eternal life that God promised. He  brought His word to light through the preaching entrusted to him by God's  command. Paul left Titus in Crete to straighten out unfinished business and appoint elders in every town.  An elder must be blameless, husband of one wife. His children must believe without being wild and disobedient. An elder who oversees God's work must not be overbearing, quick-tempered, given to much wine, violent, and pursuing dishonest gain. Instead he must be hospitable, love what was good, self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined (Tit. 1:1-8). Appoint godly elders to oversee God's work who model purity in their personal and family lives.

Lay Proper Foundation by Encouraging Sound Doctrine and Refuting False Teaching
An elder must hold firmly to the trustworthy message, encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. He must silence rebellious people who deceived and ruined households for dishonest gain. One of their own prophets said Cretans were "always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons." Elders must rebuke them sharply so they would be sound in the faith. They must avoid Jewish myths or commands among those who reject the truth. To the pure all things were pure but to the corrupted and unbelievers, nothing was pure. Claiming to know God, their actions showed they denied Him being unfit for anything good (Tit. 1:9-16). Lay proper foundation by encouraging sound doctrine and refuting false teaching to prevent ruined lives. 

Teach Sound Doctrine to Older Men and Women
Teach sound doctrine to older men so they would be temperate, respectful, self-controlled, sound in faith and loving with endurance. Teach older women to be reverent and not slanderous or addicted to much wine so they could teach what was good. They should train the younger women to love their husbands and children, be self-controlled, pure, busy at home, kind and subject to their husbands so no one would malign the word of God. Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled as an example by doing what was good. Timothy's teaching should show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech so opponents could not condemn them (Tit. 2:1-8). Teach sound doctrine to older men and women so they can disciple younger people in godly living. 

Disciple People in God's Grace to Attract Others to Christ
Teach employees to be subject their bosses so they could be fully trusted by not talking back or stealing to make the teaching about God our Savior attractive. His grace that brought salvation appeared to all men. It taught them to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, but to live self-controlled and godly lives in this present age. They waited for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of Jesus Christ who redeemed them from all wickedness and purified for Himself a people eager to do what was good. They were to teach, encourage and rebuke these things with all authority without being despised (Tit. 2:9-15). Disciple people in God's grace to live godly in all spheres to attract others to Christ. 

Allow Grace Motivate You to Obey Authority and Do Good Works
Remind people to be subject and obedient to all authorities. They were to slander no one, but be peaceable, considerate and show humility toward all men. They had been foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by passions and pleasures with envy and hate. But when the kindness and love of Jesus appeared, He saved them not because of their righteous deeds, but because of His mercy through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit poured out generously through Christ. Being justified by His grace, they became heirs with the hope of eternal life so they could be careful to devote themselves to good works (Tit. 3:1-8). Allow God's grace motivate you to humbly obey every authority and do good works.  

Live Productive Lives by Avoiding Useless Quarrels and Confronting Divisiveness 
Avoid foolish and useless controversies, arguments and quarrels about the law. Warn a divisive person up to two times and then have nothing to do with him since he was warped, sinful and self-condemned. Paul asked Timothy to come see him and help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with everything they need. Everyone must learn to devote themselves to doing what was good to provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives (Tit. 3:9-15). Live productive lives by avoiding useless quarrels and confronting divisiveness. 

Let me ask these questions: 
1. Are godly elders in your city overseeing God's work?
2. Are they laying a proper foundation by encouraging sound doctrine and refuting false teaching?
3. Are elders teaching sound doctrine to older men and women?
4. Are older people discipling younger people?
5. Are others being attracted to Christ?
6. Are discipled believers obeying every authority and doing good works?
7. Are church members living productively and avoiding useless quarrels and divisions? 
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Discipling Culture of a Model Church (Insights in NT)

2/8/2013

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The church at Thessalonica was a model church for us to follow. They shared the gospel everywhere; discipled others; helped people stand firm in the faith; pursued holiness, love and economic independence; encouraged one another because of Christ's coming again; lived with faith, love and hope in Christ; and fostered holistic transformation. The benefits: served God in faith, love and hope; received glory and reward from God; discovered real life;  won respect of unbelievers; lived with God forever; knew Christ was coming back; and sanctified spirit, soul and body.
Let's examine the discipling culture of a model church that enabled it to share the gospel everywhere. 

Share the Gospel Everywhere
Paul thanked God in his prayers for their work produced by faith, labor prompted by love and endurance inspired by hope in Christ. God loved and chose them because their gospel came with the Holy Spirit's power and deep conviction, not only with words. After imitating Paul and the Lord, they joyfully welcomed the message given by the Holy Spirit. They became a model to all believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord's message became known everywhere as they turned to Him from idols and served the living and true God. He raised Jesus from the dead who rescued them from the coming wrath (1 Thess. 1:1-10). Share the gospel everywhere so people turn from idols and serve the living God in faith, love and hope.

Disciple Others Like Mother and Father
In spite of strong opposition, Paul and his team shared the gospel without error or impure motives. Being entrusted with the gospel, they spoke as men approved by God. They never tried to please men, used flattery, covered up greed or looked for men's praise.  As apostles of Christ, they were like a gentle mother loving and caring for her children. They shared not only the gospel, but their own lives as they worked hard not to be a financial burden. As a father dealt with his children, they encouraged, comforted and urged them to live lives worthy of God. Their reception of God's word enabled them to endure suffering from their peers. Satan stopped Paul from seeing them. They were his hope, glory, joy and crown when Christ came back (1 Thess. 2:1-20). Disciple others like a nursing mother and exhorting father to receive your glory and reward from God.

Help People Stand Firm in Their Faith
While in Athens, Paul sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them in their faith during trials and temptations. Even though they were destined for persecution, Paul showed concern about them walking away from their faith. He was encouraged when Timothy brought good news about their steadfast faith and love. Paul really lived when they stood firm in the Lord. He thanked God for his joy in God's presence because of them. Paul prayed earnestly to supply what was lacking in their faith. He asked the Lord to increase their love for others and strengthen their hearts to be blameless in God's presence (1 Thess. 3:1-13). Help people stand firm in their faith so you discover real life.  

Pursue Holiness, Love and Economic Independence
It was God's will for them to be holy by avoiding sexual immorality, passionate lust or taking advantage of their brother. He punished men for such sins since He called them to holiness, not impurity. They rejected God and the Holy Spirit by ignoring this instruction. Paul urged them to love their brothers even more as God taught them. A quiet life should be their ambition as they minded their own business and worked with their hands to win the respect of outsiders without dependence on anybody (1 Thess. 4:1-12).
Pursue holiness. love and economic independence to win the respect of unbelievers.  

Encourage One Another Because of Christ's Coming Again
They were not to grieve like those without hope since Christ died, rose again and brought with Him those who died. The Lord would come down from heaven with the trumpet call of God and the dead in Christ would rise first. Those still alive would be caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. They were to encourage each other knowing they would be with the Lord forever (1 Thess. 4:13-18). Encourage one another because of Christ coming again to live with Him forever.

Live with Faith, Love and Hope in Christ
The day of the Lord would come like a thief in the night while people were saying, "Peace and safety." Destruction would come suddenly like labors pains on a pregnant woman. This day should not surprise them since they were sons of the light being alert, self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate and the hope of salvation as a helmet. Since God did not appoint them to wrath, but receive salvation through Christ by living together with Him, they should encourage and build each other up (1 Thess. 4:13-5:11). Live with faith, love and hope in Christ knowing He is coming back anytime. 

Foster Holistic Transformation
They should respect and regard highly those over them in the Lord who work hard and admonish them. They should warn the idle, encourage the timid, help the weak and be patient with everyone. They were to be kind to everyone, joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances because this was God's will for them in Christ. They should not put out the Spirit's fire, not treat prophecies with contempt, test everything, hold on to the good and avoid every kind of evil. Paul prayed the God of peace would sanctify them entirely so their spirit, soul and body would be blameless at the coming of Christ. God would do it because He was faithful. Paul asked for prayer, greet everyone and read the letter to all the brothers (1 Thess. 5:12-28). Foster holistic transformation by respecting church leaders, ministering practically to the needy, expressing gratitude, leading by the Holy Spirit and praying for sanctification of peoples' spirit, soul and body. 


Which of the following benefits motivate you to share the gospel and be discipled to multiply your impact in the world?
1. Serve God in faith, love and hope
2. Receive glory and reward from God
3. Discover real life  
4. Win respect of unbelievers
5. Live with God forever
6. Know Christ is coming back
7. Sanctify spirit, soul and body
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How to Equip Shepherds to Disciple Nations (Insights in Prophets)

12/25/2012

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How does the church deal with spiritual, emotional, mental, social and physical devastation in every nation? 
Jeremiah taught in Jer. 1-6 that you must drink from rivers of living water to empower prayer and fasting for shepherds after God's heart to disciple biblical illiterate people in every city and nation. 

Jer. 7-13 explained how to equip shepherds after God's heart to disciple nations. Deal justly with poor, repent of sin, appreciate God's word and ways, call upon a wise and powerful God, trust Him for protection from persecution, care for nations in complex situations and be humble to praise and honor Him. 

Deal Justly with the Poor and Embrace Truth
Jeremiah told Judah to reform their ways and actions to not trust in deceptive words. He asked them to deal justly with the alien, fatherless, widow; not shed innocent blood; not to follow other gods; not allow God's name become a den of robbers and not trust in the temple. By serving the Queen of Heaven, they harmed themselves to their own shame. By following the inclinations of their evil hearts, they went backward and refused correction. When truth perished and vanished from their lips, God rejected and abandoned this generation. Joy and gladness left and the land became desolate (Jer. 7:1-34). Deal justly with the poor and embrace truth to see progress in your city.

Repent of Sin and Know God's Word
Jerusalem relied on deceit, refused to repent of their wickedness and pursued their own course like a horse charging into battle. God's people did not know the requirements of the Lord. The scribes handled God's word falsely. All were greedy for gain. Prophets and priests practiced deceit and dressed peoples' wounds superficially. They called for peace and healing but only terror came. God mourned when enemies crushed His people. No healing was available for the wound of His people (Jer. 8:1-22). Repent of sin and know God's word as the first step to heal wounds.

Appreciate God's Ways 
Instead of triumph in God's truth, His people sinned and trusted deception. No one was instructed by God to know what ruined the land. People forsook the Law and followed the stubbornness of their hearts to worship Baal. Let not the wise, strong and rich boast of their wisdom, strength and riches. Instead, let him boast that he understood and knew God since He delighted in kindness, justice and righteousness on earth (Jer. 9:1-26). Appreciate God's ways instead of trusting the deception of man's wisdom, strength and riches.

Call Upon a Wise and Powerful God
Do not learn or fear a nations' worthless ways, customs and idols. No nation or kingdom could endure the wrath of a wise, powerful, eternal God and King. False gods perished as they did not create the heavens and earth. God made the earth, founded the world by wisdom and stretched out the heavens by understanding. He sent lightning and brought wind from His storehouses. Peoples' idols were worthless and they had no knowledge. They felt hopeless to cure their wounds and sickness in their homes and families. Senseless shepherds who did not talk with God caused His flock to scatter. A man did not own his life and could not direct his steps. Jeremiah prayed for God's wrath to be poured on nations that did not call on Him since they destroyed His people (Jer. 10:1-25). Call upon a wise and powerful God to heal your wounds and discover His purpose. 

Trust God for Protection from Persecution
God told Judah through Jeremiah to obey His covenant given to those He brought out of Egypt as His people. Throughout history, God warned them to obey Him. Instead, they followed their stubborn, evil hearts and experienced the curses of disobedience and disaster. When evil people plotted to destroy Jeremiah if he continued prophesying against them, he committed his cause to God. God promised to kill his enemies (Jer. 11:1-23). Trust God for protection from persecution while discipling nations in His word.  

Care for Nations in Complex Situations
Jeremiah asked why the wicked bore fruit when God was far from their hearts. Even though their grass withered, people thought God would not see it. If someone stumbled in safe country, how could they manage in the thickets by the Jordan? Their brothers betrayed them pretending to speak well. God allowed them to be devoured by their enemies like a speckled bird of prey. Many shepherds ruined His vineyard and turned His pleasant field into a desolate wasteland. The whole land laid waste because no one cared. People wore themselves out and gained nothing. God showed compassion to His people and brought them back to their land. Any nation that learned about God was established among His people. He destroyed those who did not listen to Him (Jer. 12:1-17). Care for nations (niches) living in complex situations so they can fellowship with God's people.

Be Humble and Glorify God
God told Jeremiah to wear and hide a belt so it would be useless. It represented how He ruined Judah's pride in  serving other gods. God planned to bound the house of Israel and Judah as His people for renown, praise and honor. Instead of their wineskins being filled with wine, He filled kings, priests, prophets and everyone with drunkenness so they would not be reconciled with one another. Their pride and not giving glory to God brought darkness, captivity and exile. Trusting false gods scattered and prevented them from doing good (Jer. 13:1-27). Be humble and glorify God so you can praise and honor Him.


Consider the following checklist in equipping shepherds to disciple the nations:
1. Deal justly with the poor to see progress in your city
2. Repent of sin and know God's word as the first step to heal wounds
3. Appreciate God's ways instead of trusting the deception of man's wisdom, strength and riches
4. Call upon a wise and powerful God to heal your wounds and discover His purpose
5.  Trust God for protection from persecution while discipling nations in His word 
6. Care for nations in complex situations so they can fellowship with God's people
7. Be humble and glorify God so you can praise and honor Him
Which one will you begin to apply now?
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Pray for Those Who Can Disciple the Nations (Insights in Prophets)

12/15/2012

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"To relativize Truth by soft-pedaling the authority of Scripture in any sphere of life is a renunciation of
Christian responsibility, an abdication of Christian conviction, and a cave-in of Christian courage" (James Nickel).


In order to communicate a biblical worldview, drink from rivers of living water (Christ), pray for shepherds after God's heart, fast on behalf of biblical illiterate people, search for honest and truthful people and teach nations to walk according to God's word.

Communicate a Biblical Worldview to Build Up Nations
God's word came to Jeremiah during Josiah's and his son's reign when Jerusalem went into exile. God appointed Jeremiah as a prophet to the nations before he was born. As a child, he told the Lord he did not know how to speak. Because God rescued him, He sent Jeremiah to say whatever He commanded without fear. God touched Jeremiah's mouth so His words could uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, and to build and to plant nations and kingdoms. He showed him an almond tree branch and boiling pot representing the northern kingdom's kings whose thrones in Jerusalem judged God's people for worshiping what they made. He supported Jeremiah as he stood for truth before everyone, including Judah's political and religious leaders, even as they fought against him (Jer. 1:1-19). Communicate a biblical worldview to build up nations in God's truth and destroy falsehood.

Drink from Springs of Living Water
Israel was holy and loved God, but followed worthless idols and became worthless themselves. The people and priests who did not know God failed to ask, "Where is the Lord?" They exchanged His Glory for worthless idols. They forsook God, the spring of living waters, and dug broken cisterns that cannot hold water. The stain of guilt was before God when they pursued foreign gods. They ran like a wild donkey and asked to be saved while in trouble. God's people did not respond to correction, did not admit their sin and forgot Him. Men found the lifeblood of the innocent poor on their clothes. They were not helped by Egypt or Assyria in which they trusted (Jer. 2:1-37). Drink from springs of living water to receive God's glory and obtain help in trouble. 

Pray for Shepherds after God's Heart
Prostitution and wickedness defiled the land and withheld showers. Israel did not return to God, but committed adultery with stone and wood. Unfaithful Judah showed pretense by not returning with all her heart. Faithless Israel was more righteous than unfaithful Judah. Jeremiah called Israel to acknowledge her guilt of scattering favors to foreign gods so she would return  to a merciful God. Then He would give shepherds after His own heart to lead them with knowledge and understanding. They called Jerusalem The Throne of the Lord where all nations gathered to honor His name by not following their stubborn hearts. In the future, Israel and Judah joined together with God who treated them as sons, giving them desirable land and desiring they call Him Father. Instead they perverted their ways and forgot Him. God cured backsliding, shame and disgrace caused by sin when shameful gods consumed the fruits of their fathers' labor (Jer. 3:1-25). Pray for shepherds after God's heart to lead people with knowledge and understanding. 

Fast on Behalf of Biblical Illiterate People
Return to God in a truthful, just and righteous way so  nations be blessed and glory in Him. He called Judah to not sow among thorns, listen to God and put on sackcloth since a destroyer of nations would cause ruin in their land and cities. Kings and officials lost heart, priests were horrified and prophets appalled while deceived people said they had peace. God sounded the trumpet and called them to wash their evil and rebellious heart. Then they gained salvation while the whole land lied in ruins. As foolish children, they did not know God and were without understanding and wisdom. The earth was formless and empty; the heavens' light was gone. The fruitful land was a desert, every town lied in ruins and His people cried because their life was given over to murderers (Jer. 4:1-31). Fast on behalf of biblical illiterate people without understanding and wisdom to worship God in truth and righteousness. 

Search for Honest and Truthful People
Search for one person who dealt honestly and sought truth so God can forgive that city. The pain He brought to cities only made their faces harder than stone in refusing to repent. Because the poor and leaders did not know God's ways and His requirements, they broke off the yoke and tore off the bonds in rebellion. Even though God supplied their needs, their children forsook Him, worshiped false gods and lusted after other men's wives. Israel and Judah were completely unfaithful to God. They lied saying He would do nothing and not experience war or famine. They did not believe that prophets were speaking God's word. As a result, He made Jeremiah's words a fire to consume His people like wood. God would send a distant nation whose language they did not know to devour their harvests, food, sons, daughters, flocks, herds, vines and fig trees along with destroying their fortified cities in which they trusted. God called foolish and senseless Judah who could not see or hear to fear and tremble in His presence. Their sins deprived them of good. Deceitful rich and powerful men among them did not defend the rights of the poor. People loved when prophets prophesied lies and priests ruled by their own authority (Jer. 5:1-31). Search for honest and truthful people who fear God so He can forgive their cities. 

Teach Nations to Walk According to God's Word
The tribe of Benjamin left Jerusalem for safety. The land was filled with oppression, violence and destruction so no one could live in it. Their sickness and wounds were continually before God so they could not hear Him. His word was offensive and found no pleasure in it. God's wrath was poured out on everyone since they were greedy for gain and practiced deceit including priests and prophets. They did not take seriously the wounds of God's people, but said peace when there was no peace. The Lord said to ask for the ancient paths so they could walk in the good way and find rest for their souls. They did not walk in it or even listen to watchmen who sounded the trumpet. Jeremiah asked nations to witness the disaster when His people rejected God's word and stumbled over obstacles He put in their way. A great nation was stirred up to destroy the hardened rebels that God rejected after testing them (Jer. 6:1-30). Teach nations to walk according to God's word so they find rest for their souls in contrast to those who reject Him. 

Drink from rivers of living water to empower prayer  and fasting for shepherds after God's heart to disciple biblical illiterate people in every city and nation. 
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Mourn Over Your City (Insights in Prophets)

12/7/2012

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What can you do when families, churches and cities are breaking apart? It begins with mourning over your situation. Mourn until you love your family, church and city like a nursing child does with his mother. Remember that God continually reveals Himself even when you are pursuing your own thing. Pursue the cultural mandate in seeking God's blessings in practical areas of life (health, housing, work, economy and family life) and the spiritual mandate to make disciples in all the nations realizing that those without Christ will go to a place where the "worm will not die, nor will their fire be quenched." 

The preparation for this work is seen in Isaiah 61-64 where it instructs you to preach good news to heal captives and pray intensely day and night laying hold of God’s name in asking for His help to transform your family, church and city.

God Continually Reveals Himself
God revealed Himself to those who did not seek Him. He held out His hands to a people who pursued their own imaginations, burned incense on altars of brick, ate unclean meat and asked God to stay away. He punished them for their sin and their fathers' sin. He brought descendants from Jacob and Judah who sought Him so they could  possess and inherit His mountains. He killed those who forsook the Lord when they spread a table for Fortune and filled bowls of mixed wine for Destiny (Is. 65:1-12). God continually reveals Himself to you but judges those who forsake Him,

Seek God's Blessing (Cultural Mandate)
God said His servants ate, drank, rejoiced and sang but they went hungry with anguish of heart and broken in spirit. He gave His servants another name. They invoked a blessing in the land by the God of truth who forgot past troubles. He created a new heavens and new earth where former things were not remembered. God created Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy. He rejoiced over Jerusalem and delighted in His people who no longer wept. Infants did not die and the elderly lived to an old age. They built and lived in houses while planting and eating the fruit of vineyards so they enjoyed the works of their hands instead of others. They did not toil in vain or bear children doomed to misfortune but became a people blessed by God. The wolf and lamb fed together, the lion ate straw like the ox and the serpent ate dust (Is. 65:13-25). Seek God's blessing in all practical areas of life to transform the environment. 

Respond to God's Word Humbly
The Lord said heaven was His throne and the earth His footstool, but asked where they would build His house and resting place since He made everything. God esteemed the humble in spirit who trembled at His word. Those who worshiped an idol chose and delighted in their own ways leading to harsh treatment and dread. When He called no one answered and when He spoke no one listened (Is. 66:1-4). Respond to God's word with a humble heart.

Mourn Over Your City
Those who trembled at His word were hated and excluded by their brothers because of His name. They were put to shame when God repaid His enemies. While Zion was in labor, she gave birth to her children like a country born in a day. Those who mourned over Jerusalem should rejoice and love her. They nursed and were satisfied at her comforting breasts while delighting in her overflowing abundance (Is. 66:5-11). Mourn over your city until you love her like a nursing child.

Receive Peace, Wealth and Comfort
God extended peace to Jerusalem like a river and the wealth of nations like a flooding stream. He comforted them over Jerusalem like a mother with her child. God revealed Himself to His servants and judged His enemies with flames of fire (Is. 66:12-16). Receive peace, wealth and comfort when God reveals Himself and judges your enemies. 

Make Disciples in All Nations (Spiritual Mandate)

All nations and tongues saw His glory. God sent some to the nations of Tarshish, Libya, Lydia, Tubal, Greece and distant islands who had not heard of His fame or seen His glory. They proclaimed His glory among the nations. They brought all their brothers from all nations to His holy mountain in Jerusalem as an offering to Him like grain offerings. God selected some as priests and Levites (Is. 66:12-21). Make disciples in all nations by proclaiming His glory and equipping disciplemakers.

Consider Eternal Outcome
Their name endured like the new heavens and new earth. All mankind bowed down to God in every season. They looked upon the dead bodies of those who rebelled against Him. Their worm did not die and their fire was not quenched so all mankind would be disgusted (Is. 66:22-24). Consider the eternal outcome of those who rebel against God. 

Do you believe that people are eternally separated from God if they don't have Jesus Christ? Are you grieving over the devastation you see in families, churches and cities? Then mourn until it motivates you to pray. Gather others to pray with you. Then watch what God will do in raising up disciples among various niches and cultural spheres!
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How God Transforms and Multiplies Disciples (Insights in Prophets)

11/11/2012

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"All of us have wondered at times why God doesn't do more to fix our problems. But our human eyes often fail to see that God isn't rushing to change our circumstances because he is concerned with a much more serious problem - our character. While you struggle with the woes of this world, God's main occupation is preparing you for the world to come. The focus of what God is doing in your life takes place in you, not around you" (Andy Stanley). 


God transforms and multiplies disciples by removing obstacles, bringing righteousness and strength, setting captives free, destroying wrong thinking, refining His people and leading people in the right way. Through this process, people experience peace leading to multiplied disciples.

God Transforms People
God told His servant Jacob whom He chose and helped to not fear since He poured water on thirsty land and streams on dry ground. He poured out His Spirit and blessing so His descendants understood they belonged  to Him. Israel was His witness to proclaim that there was no other God or Rock than Him.  Those who made idols were blind, ignorant and shameful. The idols they treasured were worthless. Craftsmen, blacksmiths and carpenters shaped idols in the form of man in all his glory to worship them as their god. They misunderstood that a block of wood could not save them. Their heart lied to them since they could not save themselves. Israel must return to God since He redeemed and swept away their sins like a morning mist. He displayed His glory through creation. God overthrew false prophets and the learning of the wise. He fulfilled His servants' predictions. God restored the ruins in Jerusalem and Judah. He directed Cyrus as His shepherd to rebuild Jerusalem and lay the foundations of the temple (Is. 44:1-28). God displays His glory in transforming people by revealing the worthlessness of idols.

God Removes Obstacles
God used Cyrus to subdue nations and open doors. God went before Israel to level mountains, break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron. He gave them riches stored in secret places so they would know the true Lord. He called them by name, bestowed a title of honor and strengthened them even though they did not acknowledge God. He showed the whole earth that there was no other god except the Lord who formed light, created darkness, brought prosperity and created disaster. God rained down righteousness so salvation would spring up. The clay cannot say to the potter, "What are you making?" or to his parents, "What have you brought to birth?" God made the earth and created mankind upon it. He raised up Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem and set His exiles free. The products of Egypt and merchandise of Cush would be theirs when people saw God was with them. The makers of idols were shamed and disgraced, but Israel would have eternal salvation without shame or disgrace (Is. 45:1-17). God removes obstacles and opens doors in providing financial resources so the world can be saved. 

God Brings Righteousness and Strength
God created the heavens and earth to be inhabited. He did not want Jacob's descendants to seek Him in vain. The righteous God and Savior called the earth to turn to Him and be saved. Every knee and tongue would bow saying that in the Lord alone was righteousness and strength. Everyone who raged against Him would be shamed, but in the Lord all Israel's descendants were found righteous and exulted (Is. 45:18-25). God enables His disciples to seek Him for  righteousness and strength. 

God Sets Captives Free
The idols of Babylon, Bel and Nebo, were unable to rescue them from the weary burden and captivity to sin. God carried, sustained and rescued Israel from birth through old age. Comparing God to riches was futile since it could not save them from their troubles. He used men to fulfill His purpose planned from the beginning of time. His righteousness was near and would not be delayed as He granted salvation and splendor to Israel (Is. 46:1-13). God works through His people to set captives free from sin.

God Destroys Wrong Thinking
Babylon would no longer be called tender, delicate or the queen of kingdoms.  God took vengeance, exposed her nakedness and uncovered her shame. He was angry with His people and gave them into Babylon's hand. They showed no mercy with Israel and even laid a heavy yoke on the aged. Babylon lounged in security not knowing that widowhood and loss of children would occur on a single day. They trusted in wickedness and were misled in their wisdom, knowledge, self-sufficiency, magic spells and sorceries. Wrong counsel wore them out. They could not, along with anyone else, save themselves from the power of the flame (Is. 47:1-15). God exposes and destroys wrong thinking and self-sufficiency. 

God Refines His People
Israel invoked God's name without truth and righteousness.
They called themselves citizens of the holy city but were stubborn like a bronze forehead. God announced new things before they happened so they could not say their idols ordained them. He tested and refined them in the furnace of affliction for His own name's sake. The Lord's chosen ally carried out His purpose against Babylon that God made successful (Is. 48:1-15). God tests and refines His people in the furnace of affliction for His name's sake.

God Leads People In Right Way
God taught Israel what was best and directed them in the way they should go. Their peace would be like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea if they listened to His commands. Their descendants would be like sand and their name maintained before God. Announce their flight from Babylon with shouts of joy saying the Lord redeemed His servant Jacob. God led Israel and made water flow from the rock in the deserts. There was no peace for the wicked (Is. 48:16-22). God leads His people in the right way to experience peace and multiply disciples. 


Ask God to transform and multiply disciples among yourself, family members and friends through the following process: 
1. God reveals His glory by revealing the worthlessness of idols
2. God removes obstacles and opens doors in providing financial resources so the world can be saved
3.  God enables His disciples to seek Him for  righteousness and strength 
4. God works through His people to set captives free from sin
5. God exposes and destroys wrong thinking and self-sufficiency
6. God tests and refines His people in the furnace of affliction for His name's sake
7. God leads His people in the right way to experience peace and multiply disciples 


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    Mark Pomeroy

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    My goal is to ignite the hearts of people by explaining God's word in the Law, Prophets, Psalms and New Testament consecutively, much like the experience of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:32,44). I have been a missionary in Lincoln, NE, for 13 years with Christ For the City Int. and Sync with God.
     
    Sync with God is a highly versatile web app that hosts on-demand, virtual small groups. Sync is designed to connect young seekers in the faith and scripturally-trained mentors, even globally. It offers a safe, engaging interface for Millennials/Gen. Z and is readily adaptable to technical advances well into the future.

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    Significance
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    Sphere Of Influence
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    Stability
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    Strength
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    Success
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    Temptation
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    United Prayer
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    Wait
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    Walk
    Warfare
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    Word Of God
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    Work
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    Work Environment
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    Workmen Of The Word
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    Worldly Advice
    Worldly Thinking
    World's Scorn
    Worship
    Worthless
    Wounds
    Wrath
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    Zeal
    Zechariah
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