John 20:19-22 presents a realistic picture of the local church. In this post-resurrection appearance, the disciples are gathered in fear. The doors are locked. The church is staying together. The evil people are on the outside. Jesus appears to them and offers a blessing of peace. But then Jesus goes crazy on them. After the blessing of peace, he declares, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” Can you imagine the disciples during this time. They are huddled up, doors triple locked, and the windows are barred. The bad guys might come into this church service. Instead of wanting the church to be on the inside focusing on prayer, Jesus sends the disciples out. Jesus is fighting the natural desire for the church to be internally focused. Instead of staying away from the world, Jesus tells the disciples to get out into the world.
Related posts:
- Review of “Guiding People Through Conflict”
- A Refuge People
- People Want to be Part of a Winning Work
- Read “A Gathered People”
- Peace or Mission
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About The Author
Matthew is originally from Nova Scotia, Canada. He has a beautiful wife named Charity and a precious baby named Gabrielle. He has graduated from the Brown Trail School of Preaching, Heritage Christian University with his Bachelors of Arts in Biblical Studies, Lipscomb University with his Master’s of Arts in Biblical Studies and his Master’s of Divinity at Freed-Hardeman University. He is presently working towards his Doctorate of Ministry at Harding Graduate School of Religion. His articles have appeared in the World Evangelist, the Highway to Holiness, The West Virginia Christian, The Christian Echo, The Firm Foundation, Church Growth, and the Gospel Advocate. He enjoys hockey, golf, boxing, and chess. In his spare time he enjoys reading numerous genres of books. Also, he is working on climbing all of the 14ers in Colorado. Matthew is the Pulpit Minister for the Castle Rock church of Christ.
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What do you think of the new look? Thank you brother.
Wow! Love the new blog. I need to hire a designer like yours! Very well done.
I like the new look.