Entries from January 2009 ↓

“When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up” (1 Cor. 14:26).

Here Paul speaks quite categorically about the purpose of the gathering of the saints. Interestingly, the New Testament places little emphasis on worship per se as the purpose for the gathering of the church – not because worship is unimportant, but because it is to be continual and pervasive (Rom. 12:1). When the church gathers, however, each has been given a gift to be used for the building up of the body. Or in Paul’s stunning words: “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Cor. 12:7). And what is true of the church locally is also true of the church globally: the varied distribution of gifts are to be used for the building up of the church around the world.

“And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent” (Col. 1:18).

By raising Jesus Christ from the dead God has made him preeminent in everything. The church exists, then, to make Christ’s preeminence known in the world, whether in preaching or politics, science or sexuality, commerce or conflict – all the more in light of the Western world’s increasing religious diversity, pluralism and relativism.

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).

God has created us for his own glory. All of life should thus be lived in a way that draws attention to the infinite beauty and excellencies of God. There is no domain of life too remote or activity too mundane to not be drawn up into the worship and enjoyment of God. Hence, we must combat in both thought and practice a sacred/secular dichotomy. Whether we eat or drink – all to the glory of God!

At the start of a new year it’s always worth reflecting biblically, prayerfully and self-critically on one’s commitments and convictions. So over the next several weeks I thought I’d post twelve (what I call) biblical priorities that guide my life and ministry.

So Priority #1 forthcoming shortly . . .