“Those of us who live in countries where churches are practically everywhere . . . risk getting so familiar and comfortable with the gospel that we forget how radical it is. As our culture increasingly looks down on believers, we may also get quieter about what we believe because we don’t want to deal with the consequences of being completely open about it. Without meaning to, we begin to devalue the message that changed our lives.”- Chip Ingram
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”- Romans 1:16 (ESV)
As Chip Ingram moves on in Chapter 4 of I Choose Joy, he reminds us of one of Paul’s purposes in writing to the Philippians. Paul wanted to encourage this small church to keep the faith and choose joy. In addition, he expressed his desire that they experience the fulness of joy that God promises. As a result, Paul began by redirecting their focus.
Furthermore, Chip believes, we can discern three purpose statements from Philippians that hold true for all of us. Consequently, Chip counsels, you need to make these purposes foundational for your life. And do so before you move on to more specific purposes tailored for your life. Chip covers the first statement today.
Purpose Statement #1: I am an ambassador/messenger of the Gospel. First, Chip stresses, if one of your foundational principles centers on being a messenger of the gospel, what are you doing about it? And how are you living out and talking about that message? Because we need to see everything we go through in life through the lens of purpose.
However, Chip observes, living life through the lens of purpose runs counter to one of our society’s highest values: self-actualization. Hence, our society applauds those who try to make a difference — albeit from an earthly perspective. Yet, society looks down on those who invest their lives in eternity.
Today’s question: What keeps you from the tendency to devalue the message of the gospel? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “An ambassador of Christ”