Chapter 5 – The Multiplying Community
Jesus Chooses a Few
We started off being reminded that while Jesus often spoke to the multitudes, he developed and discipled the 12. He would pour himself into a few to make a great impact.
All He wanted was a few men who would think as He did, love as He did, see as He did, teach as He did and serve as He did. All He needed was to revolutionize the hearts of a few, and they would impact the world.”
― David Platt, Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream
Making Disciples is Messy
Making disciples is not a program. It’s not just a classroom lecture, it is all about on the job training. Platt related a story about the homeless in New Orleans. What really made a difference in ministering there was taking the time to listen. It was letting them know that they wouldn’t be leaving.
Receivers or Reproducers
It is easy to develop receivers. People who come to church to get. We shop around for so many things today, it’s also caused us to shop around for churches, speakers, worship leaders, etc… What we need to be focused on is reproducing Christians. The question for each of us is – who are we discipling? Who are we pouring our lives into? Who are we bringing along with us as we minister for Christ?
Chapter 6 – How Much is Enough
This was a very challenging chapter. We were reminded about the poverty that many people around the world experience. If we are going to address the spiritual need, can we afford to ignore the physical need before us?
Christian Blind Spots
It was easy to see how slavery was a blind spot in the church 200 years ago. But what will we look back on as a blind spot 100 or 200 years from now? Is materialism a blind spot in the American church today?
A Biblical Perspective
Do you identify more with the Rich Man or Lazarus? Do you think Jesus was too hard on the Rich Young Ruler and “go and sell all you have” doesn’t apply to most people?
“Rich people who neglect the poor are not the people of God.”
Again the bottom line is what are we doing with what the Lord has given us? How are we using not just our money, but our time, talents and lives to help accomplish God’s mission.
Live Generously
“What can we spare? or What will it take?” Which question are you asking? I’ve been privileged to have some people in my life who’ve taught me to live generously. You shouldn’t always fret over every purchase, but give of yourself and your abilities and even just the ability to listen. Be generous in the lives of the people around you and you will please the Lord.