It's funny how we read the Bible sometimes. I am reading Romans 1 & 2 today seeing how much Paul loved, how incredible God's love is for us, how the good news, which we are supposed to be preaching, is about God accepting people. Then there is the part about God's kindness drawing men to himself. I do see the other Spirit-breathed verses, but today I am struck by the goodness of God.
I love the fact that Paul wants to come and impart something spiritual to them. We can argue about the phrase "spiritual gift", but the point remains he wants to come and give them something. In turn he wants to receive something. There is this mutual encouragement that is spoken about. How about that. When we get together, give something away to encourage and be ready and even expect to receive something.
I am concerned that we have created a gathering of receive something rather than give something in the church today. As a pastor I want to give something, and I really don't expect to receive anything. I think my thinking is not well thought through. Why not? Why not create a culture that any given gathering, you walk away blessed, encouraged, prayed for or built up. I'm all in for that!
I love the fact that Paul wants to come and impart something spiritual to them. We can argue about the phrase "spiritual gift", but the point remains he wants to come and give them something. In turn he wants to receive something. There is this mutual encouragement that is spoken about. How about that. When we get together, give something away to encourage and be ready and even expect to receive something.
I am concerned that we have created a gathering of receive something rather than give something in the church today. As a pastor I want to give something, and I really don't expect to receive anything. I think my thinking is not well thought through. Why not? Why not create a culture that any given gathering, you walk away blessed, encouraged, prayed for or built up. I'm all in for that!