Swift Kick!

2 Timothy 4:1-5 (NLT) "And so I solemnly urge you before God and before Christ Jesus--who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be persistent, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to right teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever they want to hear. They will reject the truth and follow strange myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at bringing others to Christ. Complete the ministry God has given you."

Swift kick in the rear!

I recall these verses that I first read several years ago. This pretty much explains why there are so many religions in this world. I have quoted this verse many times to people who are confused about church doctrine. I make known to them that Church it self should not have it's own doctrine. The doctrine should come from the bible. The members of congregation should rely on Holy Spirit, fervent prayers, a lot of reading and studying, discussing among the Christians and help each other to fulfill Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20.

Actually, reason I presented these due to meditating on lesson from yesterday's service. I was meditating on comment (by Mark) that made sense to me. He mention that the mother bird will push the young ones out of nest because she knows its time for them to take charge and start flying. Mark used this example how we Christians are so co-dependent on preacher/church for answers or leadership. Even though, themselves they have the capability to rely on scriptures and take charge in leading either in bible study, mission, or ministries.

When Mark made this comment, I had a flashback during men's only bible study. We never had a separate men/women bible study. Mark selected passages and delegated different scriptures to each men. Every Sunday, up to 4 men will lead bible discussion on passages they have studied. Wow! I thank the Lord for giving Mark the confidence to push us men at that time, out of the nest! I hope and pray that this Men's Retreat, the Lord will be able to give us all men confidence to adhere to 2 Tim 4:5. We need to remind ourselves not to forget that we have committed ourselves to the Lord. Galatians 2:20.

Prayer:
"Lord, give us men of faith this push we need. We are human and we have tendency to hold back like Moses did when you asked him to speak in Egypt. You are an Awesome God. In Jesus' name, Amen!"