Take Two

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Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
KJV

I’ve been teaching a Bible study for a few weeks now.  Allow me to offer a few thoughts before getting to the meat of my post.  I am thoroughly enjoying teaching this.  Many moons ago, I noted that one of my colleagues on our pastoral staff would get so excited about teaching home Bible studies.  I, of course, thought he was a nut.  Everyone knows that the pulpit is where the action is right? Uh, not so much.  There is nothing wrong with preaching in the pulpit (clearly) but I have learned that the intimacy and give and take of a home setting is not only edifying to the students but to the teacher.  Again, I have much to learn.  Our Bible study has doubled in size since we started it and we’re moving from house to house (very Biblical) as the participants live in three different counties.  When a new member asks if you can come to his house to teach a Bible study the answer is always yes.  Walk through that door.

Now on to my somewhat provocative title.  Of course ideally, you are creating both.  But for me (and after talking to my pastor last night and feel very certain of this), I am trying to create followers of Christ who will become integrated into our church family.  Here’s a for instance.  For a new person who asks what is required of them I do not go to the manual of the United Pentecostal Church (although this is a wonderful document chocked full of good information).  I was posited this question this past week.  Here was my answer.  You need to pray 15 minutes per day (not necessarily in one shot).  You need to read your Bible 15 minutes per day (again, in bite size pieces will be fine).  You need to come to church when there is a service.  And that’s pretty much it.

The reason for this is I want folks to know Christ before jumping in head first.  You don’t (or shouldn’t) get married right after you meet someone.  Additionally, walking with Jesus is a life long relationship.  While a two-footed jump is great, it is important to get to know Jesus.  After all, He did say take my yoke upon you and learn of me (Matthew 11:29).  We can be light on the learning and heavy on the yoke.  It is imperative that our new folks have a foundation established that will keep them for the long haul- not just a religion built on rules and/emotion.  Doctrine is teaching and is so very important to the new person.  Why we do what we do.  And most of all, Jesus love you.

Just some random thoughts for Monday.  Go forth and have a great week.