10.27.11 "THAT'S Attractive!"

"THAT'S Attractive!"

Jeremiah 51:1-53
Titus 2:1-15
Psalm 99:1-9
Proverbs 26:17

Titus 2:1 says, "But as for you, speak up for the right living that goes along with true Christianity." What is the '"right living" that goes along with "true Christianity"? It's just enough that we're saved, right? Isn't that all that's important? The truth is that salvation is just the first step in an incredible and exciting journey. What Paul is speaking to Titus about is that hey, let's start "walkin' the talk". Let's start "growin' up". This is what discipleship is about. Making Disciples needs to be a high priority.

What is discipleship? It's the process of alignment to "the right living that goes along with true Christianity." This is what we are all involved in together: Strengthening, teaching, and encouraging one another.

I get my self into trouble sometimes because I say what I'm thinking. Once I had someone ask me to pray for them. They were going to an event with extended family members. This individual is the only one saved. This person said, "pray for me because every time we get together I get really upset at [a certain relative] and we start screaming at each other. I really lose my temper." I asked them, "Are you hoping they get saved?" "Of Course!" Then I said, "Why? So they can be just like you?"

While that isn't the most sensitive discipleship technique, it proves a point. Titus 2:9-10 says, "Urge slaves to obey their masters and to try their best to satisfy them. They must not talk back, nor steal, but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy. In this way they will make people want to believe in our Savior and God." This is most directly applied to the Christian in the work place. How am I as an employee? Am I trying to get away with as much as I can or am I loyal and trustworthy?

You are an advertisement for Christianity. How good is the ad? The NIV says in verse 10 "... so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive." Are people attracted to God by your lifestyle? Do they see integrity, joy, endurance?

Most of the time I think the ad for Christianity comes across as. "complain about your circumstances, complain about society, don't go drinking, and don't sleep in on Sunday mornings cuz you have to go to church..." Weee! doesn't that sound fun! Where do I sign up for THAT??

Living a Godly life is so full of joy and through the Spirit there is incredible power just a prayer away! Strength for any situation and wisdom beyond measure are at our disposal. Why isn't THAT on the billboard of our life??

No matter what our situation, mood, stress... whatever it is, our purpose is unchanged. We are where we are to reach people for Christ. EVERY opportunity is important. We are to encourage one another on to good things. We must grow! 

Each of us are in the process of discipleship. We are also discipling one another. Let's align ourselves to this truth in God's word. Let's live lives that make people want to believe in God. THAT'S attractive.




Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!

Pastor Greg Lathe

Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ