A Bridge of Peace
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Tune in to “Perspectives With Joseph Mattera” on all major podcast platforms every Monday!
15 Ways the Cross Inverted Wordly Kingdoms
The cross, a symbol so deeply etched into our consciousness, has, in modern times, become a mere accessory, a piece of jewelry worn casually. Its current representation is akin to someone donning a replica of an electric chair or a guillotine as a necklace. This trivialization overshadows the profound impact the cross had on human history and its radical inversion of worldly values.
The cross and Christianity caused such a massive ideological shift in the world it transformed the normative old-world perspectives related to the sanctity of life, slavery, marriage, justice, law, compassion, education, sexual ethics, and much more.
Paul aptly described the cross as “foolishness” to those who believed in his time (1 Cor 1:18). But why? What made the cross so scandalous in the Roman empire, which also comports to contemporary culture?
The Roman pantheon consisted of gods who were erratic and often malevolent. Humanity was their plaything. Yet, the cross starkly contrasts this by illustrating God’s profound love for sinners, even to death (Romans 5:8-9).
Roman rulers maintained their grip on power by instilling fear. Crucifixion was reserved for those seen as threats, thereby maintaining peace through a reign of terror. Jesus, in stark contrast, displayed a new kind of power – one that embraced suffering through a brutal death rather than imposing it. His kingship was marked by selflessness, culminating in His crucifixion.
Rather than lording it over others, He served others (Mark 10:42-45).
Rome propagated the narrative of Caesar, a being claimed to be divine and human, who ruled with an iron fist, conquering enemies with the sword. But Jesus presented a counternarrative. As both truly God and man, He conquered not by physical violence but through love and sacrificial death.
Roman leaders and citizens maintained dominion by subjugating non-citizens. Yet, Christ’s kingly power manifested differently: He freed individuals even before they became citizens of His kingdom.
While the Roman rulers maintained their positions by victimizing others, Jesus took a radically different approach. Paradoxically, He allowed Himself to become the victim, undergoing suffering and death, to achieve ultimate victory over sin and mortality (Col. 2:15).
In the world we know, it’s often the proud and the ambitious that rise to the top, seizing success and acclaim. Yet, in Christ’s kingdom, a profound inversion occurs: it’s the meek, those who humble themselves, who truly inherit the earth ( Psalm 37:11, Mt 5:5).
The worldly mantra promotes claiming one’s rights, often at the expense of others. Yet, within the framework of the kingdom, the ethos is one of dying for one’s right to find life (Mark 8:34-35).
Worldly systems constantly urge us to carve out identities based on skin color, ethnicity, economic status, or geography. Yet, the kingdom of God presents an alternate vision. Here, distinctions blur as believers find their primary identity in Christ. It’s not one’s ethnic background, financial status, or residence that defines them, but their relationship with Jesus (John 1:12-13; Galatians 3:28).
Ancient empires, including Rome, often operated under quid pro quo principles. Loyalty was rewarded, and betrayal was punished. The cross, however, demonstrates a love that isn’t contingent upon our actions. It reveals a God who loves unconditionally, not based on what He can get in return, but because of His innate nature of love (Romans 8:35-39).
Empires expanded their territories through force and intimidation. Yet, Christ did not force His dominion upon humanity. Through the cross, He extended an invitation, beckoning each individual into a personal relationship with Him, rooted in love and free will (John 3:16). Furthermore, bands of Jesus communities imitated Christ and were committed to doing good works to all people which caused whole communities to flourish (Titus 3:8).
The Roman Empire, like many civilizations before and after, had a rigid hierarchical system. People were valued based on their social status. However, the cross levels the playing field, emphasizing the intrinsic worth of every individual as an image bearer of God, thereby promoting a universal brotherhood among believers (Genesis 1:27; James 2:1-5).
Ancient societies were often governed by harsh retributive justice. The cross introduces us to a God who seeks restoration over mere retribution. It shows us a path where forgiveness is a divine attribute, encouraging believers to reconcile and restore broken relationships (Colossians 3:12-14).
While the empires of the world sought temporal successes, victories that would fade with time, the cross is a symbol of eternal significance. Christ’s sacrifice offers believers not just momentary triumph but eternal life, a hope that transcends the transient nature of worldly accomplishments (1 John 5:12).
Roman emperors and contemporary elites erect statues and monuments in their honor, symbols of their fleeting riches and reigns. The cross, however, stands as a testament to the countless lives transformed by its message. Instead of lifeless stone, the impact of the cross is evident in the living testimonies of those it has touched (2 Corinthians 3:2-3).
While many rulers claimed authority based on privilege through their lineage, Jesus established His authority through His spiritual family (Mark 3:31-35). Furthermore, His service to humanity. His washing of His disciples’ feet, His healing of the sick, and ultimately, His sacrifice on the cross are testaments to His model of leadership — one that serves rather than demands privileges (John 13:12-17).
In conclusion, the cross isn’t just a symbol but a powerful declaration of an upside-down kingdom. It challenges every preconceived notion of power, authority, and success. Through its message, we are called to embrace a counter-cultural ethos, one that prioritizes love, sacrifice, and humility above all. The cross is a scandal, not because it confronts us with a gruesome death, but because it confronts us with a radical way of life.
It challenges the norms of worldly power, identity, and value. In the shadow of the cross, the grand narratives of worldly kingdoms are upended, and a new paradigm emerges – one where love, sacrifice, and humility reign supreme.
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
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6 Reasons Why the Church Should Embrace the Cross of Christ
Preaching on the cross of Christ has fallen out of favor in recent decades.
Dispensational “hyper grace” teaching even dismisses passages employing Christ followers to take up their cross as not applicable in the church age (Mark 8:34). However, the cross of Christ holds eternal significance for Christians, representing sacrifice, redemption, and the ultimate expression of God’s love. Embracing the cross as a church community can bring about profound transformations in our lives and the world around us. In this article, we will explore several reasons why the Church should embrace the cross of Christ, leading to personal growth, unity, endurance, and a deeper connection with our Savior.
Embracing the cross enables us to confront and immobilize the powerful effects of personal ancestral sin. By acknowledging the brokenness inherited from past generations, we can seek healing and restoration through the redemptive work of Jesus. The cross reminds us that through Christ’s sacrifice, we are offered forgiveness, liberation, and the opportunity to break free from destructive habit patterns. Embracing the cross empowers the Church to overcome the cycles of sin, break generational curses, and live in the freedom of God’s grace.
The cross serves as a unifying symbol for the Church since scripture illustrates that God came to earth as a human. He came as a servant who embraced the cross to bring healing and restoration to humanity (Phil 2:4-12). Embracing the cross helps us die to our egos and selfish agendas while transcending sectarian, cultural, and social barriers and bringing a sense of oneness to our diverse congregations. Hence, by embracing the cross, the Church can strive for reconciliation, healing divisions, and working towards fulfilling Jesus’ prayer for unity among His followers (John 17:20-24).
The cross provides a unique lens through which we can understand and connect with the sufferings of Christ. When we embrace the cross, we realize that suffering is not meaningless but can lead to a more profound knowledge of Christ, emotional maturity, and spiritual formation. Even Jesus learned obedience through the things He suffered (Hebrews 5:8). By embracing the cross, we also develop empathy for the pain of others and become vessels of compassion and support. In doing so, we reflect the power of Christ’s suffering in our own lives.
Embracing the cross equips the Church with the strength to endure hardship. The cross reminds us that Jesus Himself faced immense suffering and persevered for the sake of humanity. We find encouragement and hope when we embrace the cross, knowing our trials are not in vain. The cross teaches us to rely on God’s grace and strength during challenging times, enabling us to press on with perseverance and faith. Paul said that we can endure suffering by the love of God that is shed abroad in our hearts (Romans 5:3-5). The teachings of the cross enable us to navigate challenges and tribulations with grace as we fix our eyes upon Jesus (Hebrews 12:1-3).
Embracing the cross challenges us to prioritize the interests of God’s kingdom above our self-interests. The cross represents self-sacrifice and humility, inspiring us to serve others and seek the well-being of those around us. By embracing the cross, the Church can actively participate in acts of love, justice, and mercy, embodying the teachings of Christ and being agents of positive change in our communities.
6. Walking in Newness of Life and Purpose
Embracing the cross enables the Church to walk in the newness of life because if we are united in His death, we will also experience His resurrection (Romans 6:5). Jesus conquered sin and offered us a fresh start through His death and resurrection. Embracing the cross means identifying with Christ’s burial and rising to a new life with Him (Romans 6:6). Our old sinful nature no longer binds us. Still, we are given the power to live victoriously in righteousness (Romans 6:18). The cross empowers us to leave behind the bondage of our past and embrace a life of freedom, guided by God’s love and filled with hope, joy, and a renewed sense of meaning (Phil 3:7-14).
In conclusion, the cross of Christ stands as a timeless and powerful symbol of redemption, sacrifice, and transformative power. By embracing the cross, the Church can experience a shift in perspective, unity, endurance, and purpose. Let us wholeheartedly embrace the cross of Christ, allowing it to shape our lives, inspire our actions, and draw us closer to the heart of our Savior. In doing so, we become a beacon of love and light to the Church and the world.
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Tune in to “Perspectives With Joseph Mattera” on all major podcast platforms every Monday!
Part 2
In the previous article, we explored several reasons that support the existence of a pre-gospel covenant between God and the world. Continuing our examination, we will delve into compelling points demonstrating God’s interaction with pagan nations and individuals, further substantiating the idea of a pre-gospel covenant. These examples emphasize God’s desire for everyone to enter into a covenantal relationship with Him, regardless of their background or nationality.
Jonah’s mission to Nineveh is a remarkable example of God’s desire to bring repentance and salvation to non-Israelite nations. Despite Jonah’s initial resistance, his preaching led to the repentance of the Ninevites. This account highlights God’s compassion for all people and His intention to establish a covenantal relationship with those outside the Jewish community.
The lives of Joseph and Moses provide profound examples of God’s favor and presence within pagan nations. Both men became instruments of God’s deliverance and blessing to their families and Egyptian society through their obedience and faithfulness. These accounts reveal God’s willingness to engage with and bless individuals within non-covenant communities.
Jeremiah’s prophecies in Jeremiah 48-52 include messages of judgment and restoration concerning Babylon. Despite being a pagan nation, God communicates His plans and purposes for Babylon, highlighting His involvement in the affairs of non-Israelite societies. This demonstrates a pre-gospel covenant relationship between God and the world.
Daniel’s life and ministry significantly impacted the pagan empires of Babylon and Persia. As a prophet, Daniel interpreted dreams and received divine revelations, influencing the decisions and beliefs of pagan kings such as Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, and Darius. These interactions exemplify God’s intention to establish a covenantal relationship with leaders and nations beyond Israel.
Queen Esther’s courageous actions and influence over King Ahasuerus in the Persian Empire reveal God’s providential hand in the affairs of pagan nations. God’s people were preserved and protected through her intervention, affirming His commitment to His covenantal purposes even within non-covenant communities.
Nehemiah’s close relationship with King Artaxerxes showcases God’s favor and the ability to influence pagan rulers. Nehemiah secured the king’s support and resources to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls through his leadership and persuasion. This exemplifies God’s involvement in the world’s affairs and His desire to use individuals to accomplish His purposes beyond the confines of the covenant community.
Isaiah prophesied about God anointing, equipping, and calling by name a Persian king named Cyrus, who, hundreds of years later, would be instrumental in helping exiled Jews return to the city of Jerusalem (Isaiah 45). Here is another example of God revealing Himself to a non-Jewish King.
This article further reinforces the pre-gospel covenant between God and the world. The accounts of Elisha, Amos, Jonah, Joseph, Moses, Jeremiah, Daniel, Queen Esther, and Nehemiah are powerful evidence of God’s interaction, influence, and accountability within pagan nations and individuals. These instances highlight God’s desire to establish a covenantal relationship with all people, irrespective of their cultural or national background.
These biblical narratives demonstrate that God’s redemptive plan extended far beyond the boundaries of Israel. They affirm His active involvement in the lives of individuals, nations, and empires, signifying a pre-gospel covenantal relationship that existed before Jesus Christ.
Understanding and embracing the reality of a pre-gospel covenant illustrates God’s all-encompassing love and grace. It expands our understanding of His redemptive purposes and reinforces the call for believers to actively engage with and influence the world around them. Just as God worked through individuals in ancient times, He continues to work through His people today to impact and transform societies, nations, and cultures.
As we reflect on the examples provided, let us recognize our immense responsibility and privilege as believers to represent God’s covenantal love and grace to a world in need. Let us embrace our calling to be ambassadors of reconciliation, extending the invitation of covenantal relationship with God to all people. By doing so, we participate in the continuation of the pre and post-accession gospel covenant, making known the transformative power of God’s love and the hope found in Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth.
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Tune in to “Perspectives With Joseph Mattera” on all major podcast platforms every Monday!
Parte 1
O conceito de um pacto pré-evangélico entre Deus e o mundo destaca a crença de que Deus tinha uma relação de pacto com a humanidade mesmo antes da chegada do Evangelho. Neste artigo, exploraremos razões convincentes que apoiam a ideia de um pacto pré-evangélico, lançando luz sobre a interação de Deus com o mundo antes da chegada de Jesus Cristo.
Responsabilidade Mundial e Pacto:
Isaías 24:5-6 pinta uma imagem vívida de Deus responsabilizando o mundo. Esses trechos retratam as consequências da desobediência e rebelião da humanidade contra os mandamentos de Deus. O fato de que a humanidade é considerada responsável implica a existência de um pacto entre Deus e o mundo, onde se espera obediência e fidelidade.
Gênesis 1:28-29: O Comando de Deus para Cuidar da Terra:
Nos primeiros capítulos de Gênesis, e repetido no Salmo 8:4-8, Deus ordena a toda a humanidade que seja fecunda e cuide da terra em Seu nome. O Salmo 115:16 diz que Deus deu a terra aos homens. Esse mandato destaca uma expectativa divina de que a humanidade cuide e cultive o mundo como parte de sua responsabilidade de pacto. Deus estabelece uma relação de pacto que antecede o Evangelho ao confiar aos seres humanos a administração.
O Sinal Universal do Arco-Íris:
Em Gênesis 6-9, Deus estabelece o sinal universal do arco-íris como um pacto entre Ele e toda a terra. Esse sinal serve como lembrete da promessa de Deus de nunca mais destruir o mundo com um dilúvio. O fato de que este pacto inclui toda a terra implica uma relação pré-existente entre Deus e o mundo, indicando um pacto pré-evangélico.
Profetas Não Judeus como Comunicadores Divinos:
A presença de profetas não judeus, como Balaão, apoia ainda mais a ideia de um pacto pré-evangélico entre Deus e o mundo. Balaão, um profeta gentio, foi escolhido por Deus para transmitir Seu mensagem ao povo. Isso demonstra que a comunicação e interação de Deus não se limitavam apenas à nação judaica, mas se estendiam aos que estavam fora da comunidade do pacto.
O Julgamento de Deus sobre os deuses do Egito:
O relato das pragas no Egito é evidência da supremacia de Deus sobre os deuses do mundo. Através desses atos milagrosos, Deus revelou Sua autoridade e poder sobre as divindades pagãs adoradas no Egito. Esse ato de julgamento mostra uma relação de pacto divino entre Deus e o mundo, à medida que Ele demonstra Sua soberania e exige lealdade de toda a criação.
Ministério de Elias a Líderes Pagãos:
O ministério de Elias se estendeu além das fronteiras da nação israelita. Ele ministrou a líderes pagãos proeminentes como Hazael e Ben-Hadad, demonstrando o envolvimento de Deus na vida de indivíduos fora da comunidade do pacto. Esses encontros revelam os propósitos redentores de Deus e o desejo de estabelecer uma relação de pacto com todas as pessoas, independentemente de sua herança.
Amós Responsabiliza as Nações Pagãs:
As palavras proféticas de Amós 1-2 ilustram a responsabilidade de Deus em relação às nações pagãs. Esses trechos testemunham a preocupação de Deus com a justiça, à medida que Ele responsabiliza várias nações por suas transgressões. Isso indica que as expectativas de Deus no pacto se estendiam além das fronteiras de Israel, enfatizando Seu envolvimento com todo o mundo.
Por favor, confira o último livro de Joseph Mattera aquí!
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Parte 1
El concepto de un pacto preevangélico entre Dios y el mundo resalta la creencia de que Dios tenía una relación de pacto con la humanidad incluso antes de la llegada del Evangelio. En este artículo, exploraremos razones convincentes que respaldan la noción de un pacto preevangélico, arrojando luz sobre la interacción de Dios con el mundo antes de la llegada de Jesucristo.
La Responsabilidad Mundial y el Pacto:
Isaías 24:5-6 pinta una vívida imagen de Dios responsabilizando al mundo. Estos pasajes describen las consecuencias de la desobediencia y rebeldía de la humanidad ante los mandamientos de Dios. El hecho de que la humanidad sea considerada responsable implica la existencia de un pacto entre Dios y el mundo, donde se espera obediencia y fidelidad.
Génesis 1:28-29: El Mandato de Dios para Administrar la Tierra:
En los primeros capítulos de Génesis, y repetido en Salmo 8:4-8, Dios ordena a toda la humanidad ser fecunda y administrar la tierra en Su nombre. Salmo 115:16 dice que Dios entregó la tierra a los hombres. Este mandato demuestra una expectativa divina de que la humanidad cuide y cultive el mundo como parte de su responsabilidad de pacto. Dios establece una relación de pacto que precede al Evangelio al confiar a los seres humanos la administración.
La Señal Universal del Arco Iris:
En Génesis 6-9, Dios establece la señal universal del arco iris como un pacto entre Él y toda la tierra. Esta señal sirve como recordatorio de la promesa de Dios de no volver a destruir el mundo con un diluvio. El hecho de que este pacto incluya a toda la tierra implica una relación preexistente entre Dios y el mundo, indicando un pacto preevangélico.
Profetas no Judíos como Comunicadores Divinos:
La presencia de profetas no judíos, como Balaam, respalda aún más la idea de un pacto preevangélico entre Dios y el mundo. Balaam, un profeta gentil, fue elegido por Dios para transmitir Su mensaje al pueblo. Esto demuestra que la comunicación e interacción de Dios no se limitaron solo a la nación judía, sino que se extendieron a aquellos fuera de la comunidad del pacto.
El Juicio de Dios sobre los dioses de Egipto:
El relato de las plagas en Egipto es evidencia de la supremacía de Dios sobre los dioses del mundo. A través de estos actos milagrosos, Dios reveló Su autoridad y poder sobre las deidades paganas adoradas en Egipto. Este acto de juicio muestra una relación de pacto divina entre Dios y el mundo, ya que demuestra Su soberanía y exige lealtad de toda la creación.
El Ministerio de Elías a Líderes Paganos:
El ministerio de Elías se extendió más allá de las fronteras de la nación israelita. Él sirvió a prominentes líderes paganos como Hazael y Ben-Hadad, demostrando la participación de Dios en la vida de personas más allá de la comunidad del pacto. Estos encuentros revelan los propósitos redentores de Dios y Su deseo de establecer una relación de pacto con todas las personas, independientemente de su herencia.
Amós Responsabilizó a las Naciones Paganas:
Las palabras proféticas de Amós 1-2 ilustran la responsabilidad de Dios hacia las naciones paganas. Estos pasajes testimonian la preocupación de Dios por la justicia, ya que responsabiliza a varias naciones por sus transgresiones. Esto indica que las expectativas de Dios en el pacto se extendieron más allá de las fronteras de Israel, enfatizando Su participación en todo el mundo.
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Part 1
The concept of a pre-gospel covenant between God and the world highlights the belief that God had a covenantal relationship with humanity even before the advent of the Gospel. In this article, we will explore compelling reasons that support the notion of a pre-gospel covenant, shedding light on God’s interaction with the world before the arrival of Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 24:5-6 paints a vivid picture of God holding the world accountable. These passages portray the consequences of humanity’s disobedience and rebellion against God’s commands. The fact that humanity is held responsible implies the existence of a covenant between God and the world, where obedience and faithfulness are expected.
In the opening chapters of Genesis, and repeated in Psalm 8:4-8, God commands all humanity to be fruitful and steward the earth on His behalf. Psalm 115:16 says God gave the earth to men. This mandate showcases a divine expectation for humanity to care for and cultivate the world as part of their covenantal responsibility. God establishes a covenantal relationship that predates the Gospel by entrusting humans with stewardship.
In Genesis 6-9, God establishes the universal sign of the rainbow as a covenant between Himself and the entire earth. This sign serves as a reminder of God’s promise to never destroy the world again with a flood. The fact that this covenant includes the entire earth implies a pre-existing relationship between God and the world, indicating a pre-gospel covenant.
The presence of non-Jewish prophets, such as Balaam, further supports the idea of a pre-gospel covenant between God and the world. Balaam, a Gentile prophet, was chosen by God to convey His message to the people. This demonstrates that God’s communication and interaction were not limited to the Jewish nation alone but extended to those outside the covenant community.
The account of the plagues in Egypt is evidence of God’s supremacy over the gods of the world. Through these miraculous acts, God revealed His authority and power over the pagan deities worshiped in Egypt. This act of judgment showcases a divine covenantal relationship between God and the world, as He demonstrates His sovereignty and demands allegiance from all creation.
Elisha’s ministry extended beyond the boundaries of the Israelite nation. He ministered to prominent pagan leaders like Hazael and Ben-Hadad, demonstrating God’s involvement in the lives of individuals beyond the covenant community. These encounters reveal God’s redemptive purposes and desire to establish a covenantal relationship with all people, irrespective of their heritage.
The prophetic words of Amos 1-2 illustrate God’s accountability of pagan nations. These passages testify to God’s concern for justice, as He holds various nations accountable for their transgressions. This indicates that God’s covenantal expectations extended beyond the borders of Israel, emphasizing His involvement with the entire world.
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Tune in to “Perspectives With Joseph Mattera” on all major podcast platforms every Monday!
Pastors play a vital role in shepherding and caring for their congregations. While much attention has been given to the rare instances of abusive pastors, it is crucial to recognize that most pastors are among the most loving, sacrificial, and dedicated individuals one could encounter. However, even these remarkable individuals face numerous challenges that can affect their well-being, especially in light of recent events. One estimate states that approximately 1,700 pastors leave the ministry every month.
In this article, we will delve into the primary pain points experienced by pastors, shedding light on their struggles with the abuse inflicted upon them and emphasizing the need for support and understanding.
My views have been shaped by serving in pastoral ministry since 1983.
One of the most significant pain points pastors encounter is the betrayal they experience within their congregations. Whether it be conflicts, gossip, or false accusations, pastors often face situations where trust is broken. These instances of betrayal can deeply wound their hearts, affecting their ability to lead, trust others, and serve effectively.
Pastors rely on the dedication and support of volunteers to carry out the various ministries within the church. However, dealing with volunteer flakiness can be disheartening. When volunteers fail to show up consistently or do not fulfill their commitments, it can burden pastors, leading to burnout and frustration.
Losing long-term members without prior communication can be emotionally challenging for pastors. These individuals often have deep connections within the church community, and their sudden departure often results in other vital members following them and exiting, which can leave pastors questioning their effectiveness or feeling personally rejected. This pain is intensified when there is no opportunity for reconciliation or understanding.
Pastors are constantly pouring out their hearts and supporting those in need. Over time, this selfless care can lead to compassion fatigue. Continuously shouldering the burdens of others without proper self-care can result in emotional exhaustion, which diminishes a pastor’s ability to minister effectively.
Pastors often struggle with setting personal boundaries, as their role involves being available to the congregation’s needs around the clock. This lack of boundaries can lead to an imbalance between work and family life, causing strain on relationships and contributing to burnout. It is challenging for pastors to find time for rest, rejuvenation, and personal growth when the demands of ministry are unceasing.
Pastors often shoulder a significant burden regarding counseling and personal ministry to their flock. While it is a crucial aspect of pastoral care, the emotional weight of constantly being present for others’ struggles and emotional and spiritual challenges can be overwhelming. Balancing the needs of individuals seeking support while tending to other pastoral responsibilities is a constant challenge.
Transference occurs when individuals project their past experiences and emotions onto their pastors. This phenomenon can lead to unrealistic expectations, unfair judgments, and emotional turmoil for the pastor and the congregation. Pastors often navigate these complex dynamics, working diligently to build trust and manage the impact of transference within their ministry.
Pastors often face the daunting task of shepherding a congregation with diverse political and social viewpoints in today’s polarized world. Negotiating these differences can be challenging as pastors strive to maintain unity, promote understanding, and avoid alienating congregation members. Walking the delicate line of addressing societal issues while upholding biblical principles requires wisdom and discernment.
The nature of pastoral ministry means continually addressing crises and challenges within the church community. Whether it be personal crises, conflicts, or organizational issues, pastors are often at the forefront of resolving these situations. The constant demand for crisis management can be mentally, emotionally, and spiritually draining, making it challenging for pastors to find respite and maintain their well-being. Pastors are usually either entering into a crisis, in the middle of a crisis, or attempting to move forward after a crisis.
As spiritual leaders, pastors are responsible for addressing challenging topics and engaging in difficult conversations with church leaders and members. These conversations may involve addressing sin, confronting misconduct, correcting bad attitudes, or making decisions that are not universally popular. Navigating these conversations with grace, truth, and sensitivity requires tremendous wisdom and discernment.
In conclusion, understanding these primary pain points experienced by pastors makes it incumbent for elders and church leaders to cultivate a supportive church community for their lead pastor. Also, by recognizing the unique ongoing challenges pastors face, church members must learn to extend grace, empathy, and understanding to their pastors. By actively participating in their care and well-being, we can help alleviate their burdens. Offering assistance with counseling, sharing responsibilities, and providing opportunities for rest and self-care are practical ways to support our pastors.
Remember, pastors are human and need love, support, and understanding. Let us strive to create an environment within our church communities that fosters their spiritual growth, emotional well-being, and overall flourishing. By working together, we can ensure that pastors are equipped to continue their vital role in shepherding and guiding God’s people.
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Tune in to “Perspectives With Joseph Mattera” on all major podcast platforms every Monday!
Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!
Tune in to “Perspectives With Joseph Mattera” on all major podcast platforms every Monday!
Nine Ways God Draws People to Salvation
Throughout history, within the evangelical Protestant Church, the topics of salvation, election, and the mechanisms by which God brings individuals to Him have been crucial. Historically, three primary viewpoints—Reformed, Arminian, and Molinism—have dominated discussions regarding the balance of divine sovereignty and human free will.
Reformed theology, deeply rooted in the teachings of John Calvin and Augustinian doctrines, adopts a monergistic approach. This viewpoint asserts God as the sole initiator and finisher of salvation, negating any contribution from human free will. Denominations such as Orthodox Presbyterian, historic Lutheranism, and other Reformed denominations align with this perspective.
Conversely, Arminian theology supports a synergistic viewpoint where divine grace and human free will collaborate, allowing the individual to choose salvation. This approach is prominent among Methodists and classical Pentecostal denominations, underlining cooperation between divine and human will in the process of salvation.
Molinism, conceptualized by Luis de Molina in the 16th century, introduces the idea of God’s middle knowledge, where He knows every possible choice free creatures might make. Molinism harmonizes divine sovereignty and human free will by proposing that God actualizes a world aligning with His providential plans through creatures’ free decisions. This theological stance, resonating with some Lutheran expressions, has gained modern popularity through theologians like William Lane Craig.
Despite differing opinions on divine sovereignty and human free will, there’s common ground: God initiates the drawing of people to salvation. This truth is echoed in John 6:44, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.” Knowing how God draws people is crucial for effective prayers and gospel propagation.
The preached word stands as a pivotal medium by which God draws people. The indispensability of preaching is underscored in Romans 10:14-15, emphasizing hearing the word in fostering faith (Romans 10:17). Thus, the church must prioritize mission and gospel proclamation.
John illustrates the role of the Spirit in drawing people by bearing witness to Jesus (1 John 5:6-9). The Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, thus playing a vital role in human experience and divine drawing (John 16:8).
Prevenient grace, a grace preceding human decision, empowers individuals to choose salvation. This Arminian concept implies that humanity, though fallen, has received enabling grace to respond to the Gospel freely. Although every human experiences a degree of prevenient grace, they can reject it and remain unregenerate (which is contrasted with the Reformed view regarding irresistible grace).
God often utilizes circumstances or crises to draw people, as seen in the conversion of the Philippian jailer (Acts 16). Whether through witnessing miracles or experiencing crises, numerous individuals find faith in such instances.
The early church saw many conversions through witnessed miracles, illustrating the power of the resurrected Jesus (John 20:30-31; Acts 4:33). Observationally, witnessing divine interventions often brings individuals and entire families to faith.
The story of Cornelius reveals God’s responsiveness to the sincere prayers of the unsaved, leading them to salvation (Acts 10). Personal experiences often echo this, where circumstantial miracles and divine revelations guide sincere seekers to Christ.
Parental spiritual guidance is emphasized in scriptures like Psalm 78:1-4 and Deuteronomy 6:6-9. The perpetuation of faith across generations is vital, as seen in the Pentecost message, emphasizing the role of faith continuity within families (Acts 2:39).
Personal supernatural encounters serve as another profound way God draws individuals to Himself. These divine encounters illuminate and clarify the path to salvation for those earnestly seeking the truth. It is common to hear of individuals, including those of the Muslim faith, who have experienced unique, sometimes audible, communications from God that have led them to believe in Jesus Christ. Many conversions to Christianity have been documented globally, with testimonials citing varied reasons such as divine revelations, dreams, exposure to Christian teachings, and influence from Christian relationships. These accounts, sourced from religious organizations, missionaries, and personal testimonies, confirm this ongoing spiritual transformation within diverse communities worldwide.
Scriptures like Psalm 19 and Romans 1:19-21 articulate the revelation of God’s glory, power, and divine nature through the intricate beauty and order of the natural world, leaving humanity without excuse. The grandeur and symmetry observed in nature have sparked spiritual awakenings in many, including proclaimed atheists, leading them to acknowledge and embrace Christ. The inherent beauty and intricate laws governing the natural world serve as silent yet powerful testaments to God’s existence and attributes, drawing individuals to explore and eventually accept the truths of Christianity.
In summary, each theological perspective brings nuanced understandings of divine and human interactions in salvation. Acknowledging the diverse ways God draws people enables believers to be more insightful and effective in their prayers and gospel-sharing efforts.
This acknowledgment inspires a renewed commitment to sharing the transformative message of the Gospel, fulfilling the Great Commission with wisdom and love.
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