On the more than eight-hour drive to Southern Illinois to see our newest grandson, I had time to think about many things. As I drove, I did what I often do on long trips-day dream about sports, hunting or fishing. Then I tried to go through the Bible verses I ask the confirmation class to memorize. One of the verses we see often in the confirmation material is from Matthew 28:18-20.
Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
That is the Great Commission. Jesus calls us to change the world. Jesus saved the world and we are to change the world. We are not able to save anyone but we are empowered and ordered by Jesus to change the world by making disciples.
Jesus makes it Sound like a great adventure, "‘9Go therefore..." "Go" is the word Jesus uses, not "stay and wait for people to come." Adventure is always "somewhere out there." We have a "somewhere out there" in our community. At least two-thirds, nearly 70%, of the people around us in this La Crosse County, are unchurched. What can we do for them? What can we do for ourselves? Several of our members confirmed some of my questions as I spoke with them. Although they did not use the words, they indicated the same needs. We need to be busy making disciples. What did the first Christians do in response to the words of Jesus? Following Pentecost, they made disciples. What does that mean?
Acts 2:40-46 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, "Save yourselves from this crooked generation." 41So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. 42And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43And awe came upon every -~ soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. "And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.
"And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,
Disciple making includes a daily way of living, not only worship on Sunday and a prayer before meals. Here is where we have a great deal to improve. I know we all live such busy lives there is no time for rest, meals or exercise and now Pastor Stein wants us to become religious every day. Not exactly, if we really believe the words of Jesus then we should live as though we believe them. How then should we live?
Ephesians 5:15-20 15Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, ‘6making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart, 20giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Come join the adventure, it is for men of courage. It will be a challenge. It will take time. It will make the best use of time. It will change your life.
When does the adventure begin? Plans are underway. For now, try this.
Read a Psalm a day or Portals of Prayer
Pray for the Lord to make you wise
Tell family members about your devotion
Be thankful for life
Pastor Stein