Re-produce

24The truth is, a kernel of wheat must be planted in the soil. Unless it dies it will be alone � a single seed.

Mark 6:7 – And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits.

7 It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow

Psalm 92:12But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. 13For they are transplanted into the LORD’s own house.

Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest.

The Radical Mystery

In closing:

We’re in tension with the Kingdom and the world.

We’re in the radical middle of orthodoxy and Experience.

We’re in confrontation with all extreme positions while radically holding on to ours.

That Christ is the centre of it all and that Mystery is underscored by His love.

Without it we can do nothing of eternal consequence.

But!!! Christ is risen!

The Radical Middle

Theology is a system of ideas and ideals, especially one which forms the basis of a particular theory and policy.

The first generation goes forth on its own, to conquer new ground and blaze a glorious trail for reformation.

The second generation takes the helm, anxious to continue in the proud and honorable tradition of their fathers.

The third generation is focused more on perpetuating the organization, and less on the theological issues which actually created the movement in the first place.

When the fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect. we can us ‘Either or’ language – as oposed-  to ‘also and’ language

An Inconvenient Truth

Syncretism is the combining of different beliefs, while blending practices of various schools of thought. It opposes the TRUTH that:

Colossians 1-2

1:24 His body, which is the church,

1:25 preaching the word of God, 26 that is, the mystery

1:27 the mystery , which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

1: 28 We proclaim Him,

1: 29 For this purpose also I labour

2:6 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 having been firmly rooted and now built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

When the Kingdom comes

When heaven converges with our lives,

Something as explosive as creation happens.

We have the authority to do what we’re called to do.

The power of God, emboldens us!

Yes that is encouragement, empowerment and a stiffening of resolve.

Be Like Christ

Philippians 2

We must do nothing …out of selfish ambition.

We must obey… by being like obedient children.

We must have Christ’s attitude …of sacrificial living.

Then do it all… without grumbling.

More of You, Lord!

When we are full of the Spirit he could lead us into dry places.

But He is able to sustain us.

We need our gardens of relationship to be intentionally:

Prepared: Tilling the soil

Invested in: Sow good seed

Prioritised: Given time

Watered: Led by the Spirit of God, the Living water

New Wine – Cleanse me

Many Jesus followers understand commitment and sacrifice.

They’re willing to serve, give and and do ‘whatever it takes’.

But there is a time for doing nothing and letting Him touch you.

This level of intimacy is what people struggle with.

He wants us to come away with Him, to draw close and let Him cleanse us.

Will you surrender yourself to Him today, not your stuff but your heart.