Consecration

Providence Church. Sunday School

Master Plan of Evangelism Chapter 3

What keeps us from being around non-Christians?
- not being aware of those around us
- my own insecurities
- turning off relationally
- busy schedule
- fear

What is it like to be initiated with?
- feel welcomed/special
- maybe a bit skeptical
- challenged

consecration - dedicated to a purpose; set apart; solemn commitment to a purpose/goal

BIG difference between commitment and consecration
- consecration = religious, disciple
- commitment = secular; follower


obedience to Christ's call
- Christ never asked for creeds, calls, etc. just a willingness to be disciples
obstacles to obedience
- pride, self-focus, control issues

Luke 16:10-13
- recognize tension between material/eternal
- we try to satisfy both but can't (impossible to ride two horses @ once)
- consecration often gets pushed off till later

* Jesus never chased after those who left *

discipleship = transfiguration process
- active pursuit
- accepting of all teachings

Luke 9: 57-62 Counting the cost
- 3 men want to follow but have reasons for looking back/not giving 100%
--"bury father" = father is still living but only has a few years left
- Jesus didn't waste time with people who set their own terms for discipleship
--God doesn't allow us to negotiate discipleship/salvation (it's his terms or nothing)

3 keys to discipleship
- John 8:31 - stay true to Christ's teaching
- John 13:35 - love one another
- John 15:8 - become fruitful

Why people don't accept teaching
- hard to accept servitude
- judgmental attitudes
- indignant

Tips:
- be willing to listen
* what gifts am I not using/seeing because I'm blinded by sin? *
--must let God/others affirm my true gifts
- always be the first to say "hi!"
- what I read/think will become what I am
- must live in grace/forgiveness
--don't have to be perfect to follow Christ