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Present dynamics in the world.
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Author: Jim Brauer
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Publishing date: 11/19/2003 12:00 am
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This movement we call the Seventh-day Adventist Church was raised to clarify the character of God, not to maintain buildings and structures. Human institutions are not what we worship. We follow one leader, Jesus. He is the one who gives the signals and leads each of us collectively and, most importantly, individually.
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There is no question but that consumerism and congregationalism are tearing at the fabric of the institution, causing many to doubt and mistrust first and ask appropriate questions later, if ever. But we are called to be disciples, rejoicing in trials and tribulations. Should these tests be any surprise?
I say all this to speak the truth about the church's current wrestle with congregationalism and consumerism, but our real call is to discipleship. That must be our emphasis! We are to be disciples of Jesus alone!
While I am the conference president, I am held accountable for my discipleship by the Executive Committee, but I work for Jesus alone!
Sometimes, though, we get the two turned around. We work for people and give lip service to God, which causes a great deal of pain and agony. If we keep Jesus clearly in focus, we won't get distracted by men and women. We won't get discouraged by what they say about us. We will leap for joy at the chance to suffer for His sake!
The denomination must wrestle with the preponderance it places on trying to maintain the institution rather than encouraging, supporting and growing disciples. These are very difficult dynamics which few organized Christian organizations have been able to successfully navigate. We must! Its not about this organization. It's all about clarifying what God is really like. Where else in the world do you hear the same picture of God being preached? I'll answer my own question. Nowhere!
At the same time, organization is vital to God's movement. I highly recommend George Knight's latest book "Organizing to beat the Devil," which will give the interested reader a historic perspective as well as frame the salient questions we must wrestle with today.
I invite you to pray, study, and bring your concerns and questions or suggestions to your pastor, administration or to the Executive Committee.
The attached file was written in 2003. New issues will be added periodically. I invite your comments. Send them to the webmaster @rmcsda.com
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