The signs of the evangelism movement that appeared in every age
Acts 21:27~36 While they were trying to kill him, news reached the commander of the Roman troops that the whole city of Jerusalem was in an uproar. He at once took some officers and soldiers and ran down to the crowd. When the rioters saw the commander and his soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. (31~32)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #518 We Have Heard the Joyful Sound (#252 in previous version)
The Jews who persecuted Paul only tried to kill Paul, without any regard for law and order. Thankfully, the tribune of the cohort led an army to protect Paul from the Jewish mob. In every age, such persecution followed the evangelism movement that rose up.
1. The three things that must absolutely take place.
First and foremost, prayer must take place. For prayer to take place, we must have order and discipline in our lives. In particular, if we can possess true discipline in our lives from when we are Remnants, it will bear great fruit once we reach adulthood. We can pursue reading or even listen to the Word of God in our orderly lives. Next, we must heal our bleak hearts. When our hearts become bleak, not only will prayer not take place, we will not have any concentration and focus. Exercise and meditation is good for restoring this. Moreover, when we discover the accurate reason inside of the Word, the living Word will work. Thus, we must discover what it is we can do within the Word. This is the only way we will remain unwavering even in the face of great problems.
2. The signs of the evangelism movement in every age
Many theologians and churches cannot accurately distinguish between the Gospel and religion. Additionally, they cannot properly distinguish the difference between the law and faith, between sin and righteousness, between original sin and self-committed transgressions, or even spiritual problems and physical problems. It is for this reason that the evangelism movement that arose in each age received much persecution. The Bible prophesies that the church will be at the forefront of persecuting the evangelism movement. It also prophesies that the truth and lies will be in a jumble within the church. However, God’s great answers are prepared in this midst.
3. Life of an evangelist
From now on, we must resolve to live the life of an evangelist. It is important that we enjoy in each very important day the daily Word, prayer and evangelism that can only be found within the Gospel. How can we put into action the life of an evangelist every day? First, if we prepare evangelism materials for all meetings in all places, we are entrusting our schedules completely within the Gospel. Also, when we are met with problems, we must find blessings that are undoubtedly encompassed within it. Opportunities are hidden within problems. We must strive to challenge ourselves to live the life of an evangelist from the minutest of things starting today.
- If you begin to seek and enjoy today’s evangelism, Word and prayer, you will be able to enjoy the blessing of an evangelist and remain unwavering in the face of any circumstances, realities or problems.
Core Training Message / 2010.7.31