There is a happy trio of truths in 1 Corinthians chapter 2.
The first truth is that we must be resolved to preach Christ Jesus and Him crucified. This is harder than it sounds. The temptation to talk about subjects ancilliary to Christ Jesus and Him crucified is enormous.
The second truth is that the preaching of Christ Jesus and Him crucified results in a demonstration of God's power. God is powerful. God always is powerful. God is power. God has power. These are not in question. But how often is God's power actually 'demonstrated'? The demonstration of God's power is not speaking about God being powerful (He always is). Rather, it is speaking about those occasions when men are aware of His power. The preaching about Jesus and His death opens men's eyes to the God who is always powerful.
The third truth is that for the church to truly succeed, men's faith must rest not on human wisdom, but on God's power. This is a fearful truth. The temptation of the church leader is to have men build their faith upon the leader's wisdom or cleverness. It is tempting because when men's faith rests upon your wisdom you are self-entitled to boast. But God wants men's faith to rest upon His power.
Church must be about Jesus. Church must provide a demonstration of God's power. The people of the church must have their faith founded upon God's power.
These are cardinal truths. I am daily conscious of the dire necessity to let Urban Design rest upon the preaching about Jesus which demonstrates the power that grounds the faith of her members.
What would you consider a demonstration of power. Does it often include miracles and healing?
ReplyDeletei agree people need to see that God is so full of grace and abundance to fully depend on him... God is a real thing, not just something people created... so they do need to see miracles and healing happening as a proof that God is for them and is willing to give them whatever they ask.
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