More on work and church activities and God's evaluation of our lives.
Whatever our giftings; whether in natural abilities or spiritual gifts (often coming alongside those with certain innate talents and training) we are warned to be a "profitable" servant. Compare this with Matthew 25:26-30 on the UNprofitable servant. All good things come from God above so far as gifts are concerned. ( James 1:17). Therefore we are called to love God with all of our "heart, soul and mind" ( Matt. 22:37-40 from first command in Deuteronomy 6:5. It is tempting for many to keep their private lives under wraps and leave it to those in the limelight or leadership to concern themselves with their personal lives that are under more constant public scrutiny. And if hypocritical judgments favoring those in leadership to hold onto their positions because of the "reputation" of the church or favoritism as opposed to others involved in sin; there IS a problem. The assumption here is that with proper leadership and character required being demonstrated among the elders and Pastors then the congregation should get proper discipleship.
Part of the issue also has to do with "formal" religion performed in congregations as opposed to those involved in private homes with Bible studies; etc. The same distinction may be in people's minds between a formally declared "service project" as compared with those skilled; willing and able to help with a layperson in need of home repair; moving furniture; or even financial assistance. Another point was brought up today about those not taking care of their own widows and family needs as being "worse than an infidel." ( 1 Tim. 5:8). Such an instance where a missionary excursion is chosen along with the financial expenditures ahead of helping a family member in need would in that case be a sin if we are the only ones that can help in that situation. Same can be said for long term abandonment of a wife and kids for the mission field.
Whatever our giftings; whether in natural abilities or spiritual gifts (often coming alongside those with certain innate talents and training) we are warned to be a "profitable" servant. Compare this with Matthew 25:26-30 on the UNprofitable servant. All good things come from God above so far as gifts are concerned. ( James 1:17). Therefore we are called to love God with all of our "heart, soul and mind" ( Matt. 22:37-40 from first command in Deuteronomy 6:5. It is tempting for many to keep their private lives under wraps and leave it to those in the limelight or leadership to concern themselves with their personal lives that are under more constant public scrutiny. And if hypocritical judgments favoring those in leadership to hold onto their positions because of the "reputation" of the church or favoritism as opposed to others involved in sin; there IS a problem. The assumption here is that with proper leadership and character required being demonstrated among the elders and Pastors then the congregation should get proper discipleship.
Part of the issue also has to do with "formal" religion performed in congregations as opposed to those involved in private homes with Bible studies; etc. The same distinction may be in people's minds between a formally declared "service project" as compared with those skilled; willing and able to help with a layperson in need of home repair; moving furniture; or even financial assistance. Another point was brought up today about those not taking care of their own widows and family needs as being "worse than an infidel." ( 1 Tim. 5:8). Such an instance where a missionary excursion is chosen along with the financial expenditures ahead of helping a family member in need would in that case be a sin if we are the only ones that can help in that situation. Same can be said for long term abandonment of a wife and kids for the mission field.
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