Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Matthew 4:23-25 – A Plan to Reach the World

The most interesting thing about the spread of the Good News is how it spread. We all want to say we want to be like Jesus but how many of us actually take time to see what He did?

For example, this passage gives us a good look at the way Jesus worked. There is one key word – went. Jesus went. He went out of the church and went to those in need. Where did he go? He went to different synagogues to teach and preach about the good news of the kingdom. He also healed every disease and sickness among the people.

Now look at the key word again. Jesus did go but He focused His ministry. His focus started in Galilee. Jesus came to save the world but He does so with a plan. His move to Capernaum, His choice to go to the people, His choice in where to begin ministering to the people, and the way He ministered to the people show how thorough God was in His plans to bring salvation to mankind.

What happens with a thorough plan? The news about Jesus spread faster than He could go. What did the people come for? Healing. They heard He healed people, and they brought all. Did Jesus turn them away? No. He healed them all. He hungered to serve them as much as them hungered to be touched by Him. Large crowds followed Him!

The church has something to learn here:
  • The church must learn to focus its ministry and go!
  • The church must teach and preach the good news about the kingdom of God.
  • The church must begin to tackle social ills in its community.
  • The church must welcome all people who come.
  • Above all, the church must have a plan and learn to set it in motion.

Large crowds followed Jesus from all over. Mega-churches are not a new phenomenon; they are a lost art. How hungry are you for God’s love? How hungry do you think your community is? What is keeping communities from hungering more for God?
  • Where is your church going? Does your church need better focus?
  • Are you teaching the good news? Is it reflected in your preaching?
  • How does your church plan on tackling social ills in your community?
  • Do you welcome all who seek Jesus?
  • Does your church have a plan? How can you help if not?

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