Reflect
There are some really strong words in this passage that can cause us to bristle. Words like admonish, teaching, and perfect. Let’s take a look at what these terms mean from a biblical standpoint. Admonishing in Scripture has the purpose of confronting with the intent to change attitudes and actions. Teaching complements admonishing as it gives an orderly presentation of Christian truth for those who are choosing to follow Jesus so they know how to grow. Perfection to us seems unattainable, but for the Hebrew something was perfect if it fulfilled its purpose. Those who are wholehearted, sincere, and in right relationship to God are described as perfect in Scripture. Is there someone in your life who is helping you see blind spots in your faith journey? Is there a Paul in your life who, in love, will admonish and teach you so you can continue to grow in your relationship to God? Are you open to having this relationship in your life?
Pastor Terry
Pray
- Pray for all our small group leaders.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastors, Sharon Harewood and Christine Okken.
- Pray for our missionary Gary Clatterbuck - Making Disciples in Russia (NAB). Their goal is to assist in the training of leaders of the ministries in both Russia and now Ukraine. Each institution has needs for additional people which means pastors and staff people are sent to lead groups in each country to prepare them theologically and practically for ministry. Pray for Gary as he travels to the US and Canada in September. Pray for effectiveness as he speaks and meets others.