Another Missional Quote

I know preparation is important when preaching, but it is awesome to see God work and speak through the message when that preparation isn’t an option. It helps me to see my need to depend on God, and not just rely on my own abilities. Here is a quote I used for my message Sunday. I honestly can’t remember where I pulled it from. It was late, but I think it fit in perfectly with what I wanted to say. This doesn’t negate the need for a pastor, but it does show the importance of equipping the church.

Most believers are convinced that it is the pastor’s responsibility to bring people into the church as well as into the kingdom of God. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Scripture is clear on this point. Pastors were given by God to the church to equip the people to do the work.… Sermons are not God’s primary method for reaching people. People are His method for reaching people. What kind of people? Men and women whose lives and life-styles have been deeply affected by the truths of Scripture, people who have discovered the wonderful Spirit-filled life.

God is looking for imperfect men and women who have learned to walk in moment-by-moment dependence on the Holy Spirit. Christians who have come to terms with their inadequacies, fears, and failures. Believers who have become discontent with “surviving” and have taken the time to investigate everything God has to offer in this life.

God’s method for reaching this generation, and every generation, is not preachers and sermons. It is Christians whose life-styles are empowered and directed by the Holy Spirit. People are the key to reaching people!

From The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life by Charles Stanley

Mike

I am a former design engineer who now pastors Cornerstone Community Church in Galax, Virginia. I'm passionate about following Jesus and I love technology. I've been married to Jennifer for 28 years, and we have three adult children.

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1 Response

  1. DaveDV says:

    Amen!
    Pastors must equip the believers for mission! It’s not enough to simply educate and edify; equipping every believer as a local missionary is necessary.
    Keep on posting!

    DaveDV
    Missional Challenge

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