".....concerning......"

[John Becker]

Jesus promised that it was to our advantage that he return to his father because by going away he would send us the Spirit, the Helper. Jesus said, "When he comes he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgement." (John 16:8)

My question this morning in light of all the heartache our world faces because of terror, hatred, injustice, greed and unabashed evil, is "Jesus, where is the conviction of sin?"  This brought me to prayer and reflection. The answer Jesus is giving me is- the Body of Christ, Jesus' followers, the Church.  The Helper was given to us to multiply the eyes, ears, hands, feet, and power of Jesus through the entire body of his followers.  It is through our words and actions that the world is convicted concerning sin, righteousness and judgement.

Therefore, when their is no conviction of these things, it can point back to our failure of walking by the power of the Spirit, confronting the evil and injustice we encounter every day. I am not saying their is no conviction nor action, but not nearly enough. How much are we willing to lead such radically different "Jesus" lives that the world is convicted - even if that conviction  results in increased rejection, persecution, and intolerance?  Of course the conviction we pray and hope for is more repentant sinners discovering life, purpose, praise and power in Jesus.  We truly want our words and actions to result in, "So that they see your good works and give glory to your father in heaven." (Mt 5:16)

I have been experiencing this somewhat lately as I have been sharing with people I meet throughout my day who ask about my travel. I have been highlighting the network we have formed in Europe and the Mid East to grow collaboration in responding to the Syrian refugee crisis. People are generally encouraged, some are amazed, because they mostly hear about the crisis without knowledge of what good is happening on the ground. I believe their response is one of praising God because of the work of Jesus body doing what it should.

A few days ago I read a morning devotional with Maureen that speaks to this wonderfully.

"Here's the plan: A God of grace makes his invisible grace visible by sending his people of grace to reflect his grace to people who need grace. You have been called to be the look on his face, the tone of his voice, and the touch of his hand. You are to represent his presence and his love. You are place where you are to make his mercy and faithfulness visible and concrete." (New Morning Mercies - 10th Nov)

Lastly, I encourage you to listen to this song by Hillsong, Open Heaven. I especially resonate with the lyric, "Immerse me into your mercy."

[Daniel Robinson]

Thanks brother, this post was much appreciated. I recently had a conversation with a pastor who stated that every time he comes into contact with someone who disagrees with his faith he points out scripture to show where he is right and they are wrong. I then asked him if Jesus ever judged any of the sinners he saved. Unless directly confronted by pharisees or sadducees and forced to defend his faith I think Jesus spent most of his time loving others and helping them sin no more. Most of what I see today is american christians complaining about being persecuted by todays media and judicial system. But from what I can tell of history it's through having joy and happiness in our Lord during persecution (think roman coliseum) that our faith has flourished and Jesus name has become known. So I love what you have to say. Because no matter what happens in the future, as long as we continue to focus on being the tone of his voice and the touch of his hand then someday we will see each other again when we are kneeling before our Lord and we see the fullness of his grace in heaven. 

[Gary Casady]

Always good to hear from you.  Anxious to catch up on your trip.  You were much in our prayers.  I just finished reading again Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret.  He truly lived by continually drinking at the fountain of Living Water and The Spirit touched his heart and all those who knew him.  I was greatly moved when he said in response to serious riots and persecution, that he could not help by being anxious or trouble but he could help by continuing to work and pray and roll the burden onto Jesus.  Then he continued to humm, "Jesus I am resting, resting in the joy of what Thou art; I am finding out the greatness of Thy loving heart."  Taylor is still a living example of how a weak person can see God do great things when immersed in Him.  Thanks for sharing and being!!!!

Blessings,

[Nate Flynn]

Hi John, thanks for this post. It is very helpful to me. I particularly appreciate the quoted concept of being God's "look, tone, and touch". Very practical advice for me right now in my work place, where I'm really struggling. Thanks again. And in relation to the tough times recently in Paris, we pray for the families and all involved.

Nate.