Wednesday, July 9, 2008

The Book of Acts today?

I have pastor friends from belief systems that reflect a cessational stance on miracles and the Gifts of the Spirit. But we continue to fellowship because of our common message from Acts 4:12...that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ. However, I must admit that though I firmly believe in the continuation of the book of Acts into the 21st Century, I get uneasy when I don't see the American Pentecostal church in many instances reflecting that stance. In my heart, it's coming back to the need for an awakened Church. The book of Acts shows us what an awakened body of believers can do in cities and communities...for the glory of God. And, what I find in those chapters that tell the story of empowered disciple-living, is a passion for preaching the gospel and winning people to Christ. Simply put, they were in love with Jesus and that love spilled out every where they went. This is happening more in countries where believers resemble ruthless trust and radical abandonment. America has too many options. But we must be brought back to the One option that matters most - a growing, life-changing relationship with Christ. D. L. Moody, in the mid 1800's, shoe cobbler turned evangelist, was one of the most effective soul-winners in the history of the Church. Moody was to have a campaign in England. An elderly pastor protested, “Why do we need this ‘Mr. Moody’? He’s uneducated, inexperienced, etc. Who does he think he is anyway? Does he think he has a monopoly on the Holy Spirit?” A younger, wiser pastor rose and responded, “No, but the Holy Spirit has a monopoly on Mr. Moody.” I would like to suggest that this is what we need...in order for the Book of Acts to continue today and beyond us.

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