Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners... (1 Timothy 1:15)
It's a wonderful motto for gospel ministry. Here is the heart of all Paul does. But when he relates it, he can't help but add his autobiography '...of whom I am the worst.'
Some ministries are good on the first half of the verse. That's absolutely crucial. But in my experience, few ally this to the second half.
Does our Christian ministry seek to build the appearance of correctness, togetherness, superiority? How much is dripping in repentance and broken-hearted humility? Are we just trying to speak out of strength to poor sinners over there? Or are we beggars showing other beggars where to find Bread?
Amen to that.
its great at this moment the Austrialian batsmen are showing the qualities of Kingdom weakness!!!
sorry for bad spelling but my excitement at an 8th wicket overcame me!!
Glen: Good message
Tim: All we need now is for Paul to start getting puffed up. C'mon Paul I dare ya...we need all the help we can get!
Or, to play devil's advocate, is it that preachers are trying to avoid drawing attention to themselves and in favour of preaching the Gospel which is true without any personal testimony?
Yes, Paul is unafraid to bring himself into any discussion he has. But we don't even know who wrote much of the bible. Many other biblical authors purposely remain completely anonymous because the message stands on its own strength.
Nevertheless, you make a good point. I just think there are other motivations other than pride for the tendancy you identify.
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Gav - Paul (an actual Englishman) is being wonderfully restrained (unlike the Northern Irish, Tim). I link this to godliness more than nationality.
Dave - good point. We certainly don't need to bring autobiography in explicitly, but a) when we do it should be to boast in our weakness and b) a certain brokenness should characterize our speaking anyway, IMO.
Just a very brief point of order - if you are from Northern Ireland you are qualified for the England cricket team, you merely need a UK passport!