Vision

Second Incarnation [Ephesians 4:1-27; other topics - Church (health & nature)]

David Hansen defines vision as “an incarnation of the will of God in a particular place.”[1] To that I would add, in the midst of a particular people.

Complacency and discouragement are the twin enemies of vision: Billy Graham said, “complacency makes us lazy; discouragement paralyzes us.”[2] Then he challenged his readers to understand the context for his statement: 1) 70% of the world remains unsaved, therefore complacency is not an option; 2) God is still at work around us, we dare not be discouraged.

A church needs to know where God wants it to go, what He wants it to be, and the purpose for which it exists; that journey begins with the mind and heart of God, it is translated into God’s vision for His Church, through His people. A believer cannot plow looking back; neither can a church.

A church is not a society, it is an organism; each member cell must be healthy or the whole organism suffers. A healthy organism has cells focused on the same end … unity in the bonds of peace … the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love [Ephesians 4:3, 16], which is ultimately to the glory of God.

[Adapted from [1] Current Thoughts & Trends, April 1996, 16 #11035; [2] ibid. December 1996, 22 #11686]

COMPLACENCY & PRIDE: The sin sisters!

"Woe to those who are at ease in Zion And to those who feel secure in the mountain of Samaria, The distinguished men of the foremost of nations, To whom the house of Israel comes."

Amos 6:1

The wicked sisters of complacency and pride are like the South American bola. It’s used to take down uncooperative horses and cattle, when thrown at their hind legs. It is also used against uncooperative men. The two leather tethers were tied at one end and held lead or stone balls at the other end.

When thrown correctly the two balls whirl around in opposite directions; upon hitting a target, they wrap themselves around the legs, tripping or immobilizing the animal. Heavier weights are used as a weapon. Thrown at the upper torso or the neck, the two balls deal a severe blow to the recipient … even rendering some unconscious.

Complacency and pride whirl around religious men like gossip and backbiting around the proverbial water cooler.

Christianity, Complacency,
Illustrations, Pride, Religion