by Rusty Stowe - Senior Adult Minister
In 2 Timothy 4:5, the Apostle Paul says: “Keep your head in ALL situations, endure hardships, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.”
So just what does he mean? We have been talking about our “purpose” in life, our mission if you like. We have learned that our mission ought to be to “change lives for now and eternity.” So WHAT does it mean to “change lives for now and eternity?” Let me suggest three things we are to do to fulfill our ministry.
One is simply to be MATURE in faith! Some think that “longevity” equals maturity. Not so! A man or woman can live to be 100 years old and still be a baby Christian. Others believe that KNOWLEDGE equals maturity – wrong again! While knowledge is needed, knowledge alone can be dangerous. 2 Peter 3:18 says, “Grow in GRACE and KNOWLEDGE of our Lord.” In 1 Corinthians 8 Paul says knowledge “inflates” pride but love “builds up.” Spiritual maturity is measured by our likeness to Christ. It goes back to the question asked years ago, “What Would Jesus Do?” Maturity helps us discern the important matters from the unimportant ones. So, what does it mean to change lives for eternity? It means we must grow in our faith, disciple those who are saved and point the sinner to Jesus. And it can start with us today.
Remember Monday, October 3 is our annual Sr. Adult fall banquet. Tickets are on sale now. We must have a definite number by the 28th of September so we can order the food from Texas Road House. Don’t wait until it is too late.