February 11, 2007
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While preparing for last weeks Bible study I came across this:
Paul predicted continued persecution, which had been the common experience of Jesus and the disciples. Jesus sacrificed his physical life, and many of the disciples suffered for the faith – even dying for it. Real discipleship implies real commitment – we must pledge everything to his service. Those who spend their whole lives trying to avoid danger, pain or discomfort may isolate themselves from being able to contribute or serve at all. If our aim is only to protect ourselves from criticism and hardship, we begin to die spiritually and emotionally. Our lives turn inward, and we lose our intended purpose. When we serve Christ, the trials we face help us grow.
Comments (3)
thanks for sharing this!–it’s a good wake-up call.
Sadly we don’t hear enough of this which is probably why I like MacArthur and Piper so much. Who’s the quote from? It sounds familiar who’s the author?
The quote is from the Life Application Bible Commentary for 1 & 2 Thessalonians.