Have you ever been to a race? Have you ever seen the runners "Take their mark... Get Set... and GO!" Sure you have... or at least you have seen it on TV... So here is my question for you: What do the runners to when the gun is shot? They begin to run the race. Let me stress this point again... they BEGIN to run the race.
For some time now, the Church has been very content with just leading people to Christ and helping them realize their need for Christ. This is very important and there is no substitute for this time in some one's life... but there is more to the story...
I say that there is more to the story because of what Jesus commanded us to do in Matthew 28:19-20 (The Great Commission). He told us to make DISCIPLES... A disciple is someone who follows another person closely. Jesus wanted his disciples to make more disciples (and for them to make more disciples and so on and so forth). So let's be clear... you are not a DISCIPLE the moment you make a DECISION... Yes, your eternity in heaven is secure when you make a decision, but you are not done... you have only begun to run the race of faith. Your DECISION to follow Christ is like the gun being shot to start a race... it tells the runners to start RUNNING! Now its time to become a DISCIPLE!
I pray that those who made commitments to Christ tonight would not sit back and do nothing... I pray that they would not be "comfortable" with their decision and think its over... I pray that tonight they would BEGIN a life-long journey with God. This is the beginning of the race of faith! Now its time for ACTION!
I think Jesus is more interested in DISCIPLES than DECISIONS... prove your decision was real by becoming a disciple. Jesus changed the entire world with 12 committed disciples (11 really... plus Paul). Will you be one and make a difference for the Kingdom?
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
4 comments:
What a praise report, Ryan! You, your team and youth group are blessed indeed...as the Lord is is adding to the number of the saints each week at ADVANCE! May each one who has begun their race tonight finish strong at the end! With God's help and your loving encouragement and guidance, that goal will definitely be attainable! Thank you for your efforts on behalf of His children! MCB
What an unforgettable night, praise God. I too am praying that the kids who made decisions tonight understand that it certainly is a race, and most importantly, what it could possibly could mean to commit your life to Christ as you "take up your cross." I've never heard a clearer, more accurate, and poignant message on this subject. Like Clayton said, there is something about TRUTH that humans are drawn to. Students were drawn to the TRUTH tonight, that Jesus is alive and desires a relationship with each and every one of them, that their past, present, and future sins have all been nailed to that cross, so our only response is to look Him as our treasure above all things! Thank you to every student who made the bold decision to live for Him tonight - you will never forget it.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
-- Hebrews 12:1-2
Last night was incredible! I cried when I saw how many people's lifes were changed it was amazing!
Praise God!
for Advance!
And the privledge, for all of God's people to witness such love in action.
To use humble, faithful servents to bring hope and love to our youth!
To witness the power of our mighty Lord Jesus Christ!
What an honor to hop in the vehicle,the one used to drive our future leaders to their calling! Praise be to God! Let our love shine so others can know the peace that comes with understanding...
Post a Comment