On Starting Over - Part 3: Living Like the Last Witness

This is the third of a three part series. These posts examine the idea of re-creating Christianity. In essence, how would we “start over”? For the introduction, visit Part 1.

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A man with an experience beats a man with knowledge every time.
- Pastor Dave Norris

Now that we understand that the world can know Christianity again through the Bible and the parables of others, it may seem that all is well. Things will fall into place, sinners will come to repentance, and Jesus will be Lord of the earth again. Yet, we are misled if we think this way. If we think that all people need is the Bible and some stories to live as a Christian, we are mistaken. In our past, I’m sure we can think of examples where people had a Bible, had some good stories, yet weren’t living like Christ. So, what else does it take?


It takes an example. This is the part that will keep the world from missing Jesus. If they never see Him they can never be Him. Not only do people need words and stories, they need LIVING epistles (II Corinthians 3:2-3 below). I can know the Word, but if I’m not living it, it helps no one.


In a Christ-less world, that means my example becomes even more important. If I am trying to re-create Christianity, the most effective way to do that is through my lifestyle! I must live a Spirit-filled life of joy, peace, love, patience, self-control, meekness, and gentleness. I must be a positive person in my environment. I must be Christ in the earth.

Will I be hurt? Yes. Will I suffer? Yes. Will I sin? Yes. But I must overcome. I must live in victory. I must live as if I am redeemed. Then, people will wonder, “what does he have that keeps him joyful and at peace?” At that moment, grounded in the word and armed with testimonies, I can begin to share my witness. Combined with my example, my witness will have power and a depth that reaches souls. And one by one, with each salvation, I can see a new world receiving Christ and reflecting his likeness across the earth. What an amazing sight to behold!

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Thank you for traveling through these thoughts with me for the last three months. I pray they have empowered you to be a better disciple. Let’s live our lives as if we are the last Christian on earth. Peace and love on the journey.

Lord, thank You for loving each of us as if we were Your only children. You have never given up on us, never left us, never dismissed us. You are our constant source of strength. Please be with those that don’t know You today. Help them see You. Please also help those of us who say we know You. Help us show the world Your goodness, grace, and mercy. God, bless us to care about souls enough to study the Word, appreciate stories, and live like Jesus. I love You. I keep finding out just how much You love me too. Thank You.

Living,
j.a.g.

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II Corinthians 3:2-3 (NKJV)
2 You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; 3 clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.

On Starting Over - Part 2: Sharing New Parables

This is the second of a three part series. These posts examine the idea of re-creating Christianity. In essence, how would we “start over”? For the introduction, visit Part 1.

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Stories, stories! Though the Bible is critical in sustaining a spiritual life, it isn’t what most people use when relating spiritual truths. Most people use stories to prompt spiritual reflection, testify of God’s provision, or warn of moral consequences.

We can look at the example of Jesus to see the effectiveness of stories. In fact, Jesus was quite fond of telling stories (what He called parables). Rather than giving direct answers to questions, He would often share a story that held a significant message. Some of the most popular are the Prodigal Son, the Good Samaritan, and the parable of the talents. Jesus chose to use stories exclusively to share spiritual truths (Mark 4:33-34 below).

One reason (of many, I’m sure) for using parables is that they can be used with non-believers and believers alike. Parables or stories have a way of crossing lines in ways scripture can’t. Jesus knew this and spoke in a way that those who “had an ear could hear” (read Matthew 13:10-17 for more on why Jesus used parables). Simply put, stories are often pivotal in sharing our faith with others. While the Bible is important to read and remember, it is often the accounts of others that add depth and believability to the gospel message.

There are many parables today that can inform and strengthen us for a life of faith. These modern messages can also convince others of the greatness of God. Such stories include:
· Football great Kurt Warner’s improbable career and character.
· The humbling conversion of brilliant writer and former atheist Joy Davidman (wife of C.S. Lewis).
· The story of faith of the Brice family during the recent devastating earthquake in Haiti.



These witnesses remind us that the power of the gospel is not only in pages, it is at work in the lives of men and women. If we are to start over again, we need to keep the stories alive.






Lord, let me challenge myself to hear new parables. Please give me the wisdom and patience to reach beyond the Bible and see Your hand at work everyday. I trust that the world is Your sermon and we can hear it if we pay attention. Let this spirit rest on all of those who would dare be chosen to re-create the gospel message. Let the parables of Jesus guide our thoughts and actions. You are good – You are everything. I love You…









Hearing,
j.a.g.









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Mark 4:33-34 (NIV)

33With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand.

34He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.