Forgiveness, Preaching, and Diversity in the Church

 

Summary

In our discussion today, we explored the intricate relationship between preaching, evangelism, and the essence of forgiveness. Preaching involves the exposition of all of God's Word, while evangelism focuses specifically on sharing the gospel. This distinction is crucial as it shapes how we communicate the message of Christ to different audiences. When evangelizing, the emphasis is on the immediate need for a Savior, whereas preaching provides a broader understanding of biblical narratives and their connection to Christ.

We also delved into the nature of forgiveness, emphasizing that forgiveness is not always contingent upon the confession or repentance of the offender. There are instances where love covers a multitude of sins, and we are called to maintain a posture of readiness to forgive. However, true forgiveness involves acknowledging the gravity of the offense and the genuine remorse of the offender. This understanding prevents us from trivializing the pain caused by sin and allows for authentic reconciliation.

Furthermore, we discussed the importance of understanding what constitutes a true church. The Reformation provided us with three essential marks: the right preaching of the Word, the proper administration of the sacraments, and the practice of church discipline. These marks help distinguish a true church from one that has strayed into apostasy. The doctrines of grace, while not essential for salvation, are vital for a robust understanding of the gospel. Arminianism, though considered a serious error, does not necessarily disqualify one from salvation if they are trusting in Christ alone.

Lastly, we addressed the issue of ethnic-specific churches and the importance of diversity within the body of Christ. While evangelism may target specific ethnic groups temporarily, the church should reflect the beautiful variety of God's creation, transcending barriers of race and culture. This diversity is a testament to the unifying power of the gospel.

Key Takeaways:

- Preaching vs. Evangelism: Preaching involves the exposition of all Scripture, while evangelism focuses on the gospel message. Understanding this distinction helps us tailor our approach to different audiences, ensuring that the message of Christ is communicated effectively. [00:22]

- Nature of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is not always dependent on the offender's confession or repentance. Love can cover a multitude of sins, but true forgiveness acknowledges the offense's gravity and the offender's genuine remorse, allowing for authentic reconciliation. [01:18]

- Marks of a True Church: The Reformation identified three marks of a true church: right preaching, proper administration of sacraments, and church discipline. These marks help distinguish a true church from one that has strayed into apostasy. [29:34]

- Doctrines of Grace: While not essential for salvation, the doctrines of grace are vital for a robust understanding of the gospel. Arminianism, though a serious error, does not necessarily disqualify one from salvation if they trust in Christ alone. [35:29]

- Diversity in the Church: The church should reflect the beautiful variety of God's creation, transcending barriers of race and culture. This diversity is a testament to the unifying power of the gospel and the church's role in bringing together people from all walks of life. [42:59]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:22] - Preaching vs. Evangelism
- [01:18] - Understanding Forgiveness
- [02:27] - Christ's Intercession
- [04:08] - The Complexity of Forgiveness
- [06:44] - Essential Books for Church Planters
- [10:08] - The Role of Church Structure
- [11:20] - Defining the Church
- [13:03] - Discontentment in Ministry
- [16:06] - Theological Differences in Co-Pastoring
- [17:21] - Worship and Glorifying God
- [19:02] - Gospel Worship
- [19:53] - Gospel Plus Morals
- [21:08] - Justification and Sanctification
- [24:04] - The Danger of Public Ministry
- [28:10] - The Power of the Message
- [29:34] - Marks of a True Church
- [35:29] - Doctrines of Grace and Arminianism
- [42:59] - Diversity in the Church
- [49:04] - Questioning Salvation
- [55:41] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. 1 Peter 4:8 - "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."
2. Matthew 18:15-17 - "If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector."
3. Galatians 3:28 - "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Observation Questions:
1. What is the difference between preaching and evangelism as discussed in the sermon? [00:22]
2. How does the sermon describe the nature of forgiveness, especially in relation to confession and repentance? [01:18]
3. What are the three marks of a true church according to the Reformation, as mentioned in the sermon? [29:34]
4. How does the sermon address the issue of ethnic-specific churches and the importance of diversity within the church? [42:59]

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the distinction between preaching and evangelism affect the way the gospel is communicated to different audiences? [00:22]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that forgiveness can be offered even without the offender's confession or repentance? [01:18]
3. Why are the three marks of a true church important for distinguishing a true church from one that has strayed into apostasy? [29:34]
4. How does the sermon suggest that diversity within the church serves as a testament to the unifying power of the gospel? [42:59]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own approach to sharing the gospel. How can you tailor your message to effectively reach different audiences, considering the distinction between preaching and evangelism? [00:22]
2. Think of a situation where you have struggled to forgive someone. How can you apply the sermon’s teaching on forgiveness to that situation, especially if the person has not confessed or repented? [01:18]
3. Consider the church you attend. How does it align with the three marks of a true church as discussed in the sermon? Are there areas where it could improve? [29:34]
4. How can you contribute to fostering diversity within your church community? What steps can you take to ensure that your church reflects the beautiful variety of God's creation? [42:59]
5. Identify a person or group in your community that you have not reached out to because of cultural or ethnic differences. How can you begin to build bridges and share the gospel with them? [42:59]
6. Reflect on your understanding of the doctrines of grace. How does this understanding impact your faith and the way you live out the gospel in your daily life? [35:29]
7. How can you ensure that your church remains focused on the core message of the gospel, avoiding the pitfalls of apostasy or theological error? [29:34]

Devotional

Day 1: Distinct Roles of Preaching and Evangelism
Preaching and evangelism, while closely related, serve distinct purposes in the Christian faith. Preaching involves the exposition of all Scripture, providing a comprehensive understanding of biblical narratives and their connection to Christ. It is a means of teaching and edifying the church, helping believers grow in their faith. Evangelism, on the other hand, focuses specifically on sharing the gospel message, emphasizing the immediate need for a Savior. This distinction is crucial as it shapes how the message of Christ is communicated to different audiences. By understanding these roles, believers can tailor their approach to effectively reach and teach others about Christ. [00:22]

"For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." (1 Corinthians 2:2, ESV)

Reflection: How can you adjust your approach when sharing your faith to ensure you are effectively communicating the message of Christ to different audiences?


Day 2: The Depth of True Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a complex and profound aspect of the Christian life. It is not always contingent upon the confession or repentance of the offender. There are instances where love covers a multitude of sins, and believers are called to maintain a posture of readiness to forgive. However, true forgiveness involves acknowledging the gravity of the offense and the genuine remorse of the offender. This understanding prevents the trivialization of the pain caused by sin and allows for authentic reconciliation. By embracing this depth of forgiveness, believers can experience healing and restoration in their relationships. [01:18]

"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." (Colossians 3:13, ESV)

Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive today, even if they haven't asked for it? How can you begin to extend forgiveness to them in your heart?


Day 3: Identifying the True Church
The Reformation provided three essential marks to identify a true church: the right preaching of the Word, the proper administration of the sacraments, and the practice of church discipline. These marks help distinguish a true church from one that has strayed into apostasy. Understanding these characteristics is vital for believers as they seek to be part of a community that faithfully adheres to biblical teachings. By recognizing these marks, believers can ensure they are part of a church that upholds the truth of the gospel and fosters spiritual growth. [29:34]

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." (Acts 2:42, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on your church community. How does it align with the marks of a true church, and how can you contribute to its faithfulness?


Day 4: The Role of Doctrines of Grace
While not essential for salvation, the doctrines of grace are vital for a robust understanding of the gospel. These doctrines emphasize God's sovereignty in salvation and the believer's dependence on His grace. Arminianism, though considered a serious error, does not necessarily disqualify one from salvation if they trust in Christ alone. Understanding these theological nuances can deepen one's appreciation for the gospel and foster unity among believers with differing views. By embracing the doctrines of grace, believers can grow in their understanding of God's character and His work in their lives. [35:29]

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8, ESV)

Reflection: How does understanding the doctrines of grace impact your view of salvation and your relationship with God?


Day 5: Embracing Diversity in the Church
The church is called to reflect the beautiful variety of God's creation, transcending barriers of race and culture. While evangelism may target specific ethnic groups temporarily, the church should ultimately embody the diversity of the body of Christ. This diversity is a testament to the unifying power of the gospel and the church's role in bringing together people from all walks of life. By embracing diversity, believers can experience the richness of God's creation and demonstrate the inclusivity of the gospel. [42:59]

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:28, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively contribute to fostering diversity and unity within your church community?

Quotes

When we preach expositionally, we preach every portion of God’s Word. When we evangelize, we are specifically sharing that portion of God’s Word which is the gospel. And what we want to do in our preaching, I think, is explain who David is, explain why he’s important, explain what he means with his last words, but then also show how David points to Christ. [00:00:25]

I think that we may forgive people without their repentance, but the whole system of church discipline and going to your brother if he sins against you, and if he repents, you’ve won the brother. If he doesn’t, you have coals on his head. That wouldn’t make any sense if we’re required in every instance just to give unilateral forgiveness. [00:04:27]

I think that we are to be content in what… in where the Lord has placed us and in the abundance of His resources and to be faithful to minister there until He moves us. Obviously, we should not be content with our own mediocrity. We should not be content if we are less than faithful to the Word. [00:13:10]

I think that a man who is, you know, living in sin is forfeiting something in his ministry. I can’t give him a free pass and just say, well, just continue to live in license to sin. And I think there is a forfeiting of many things in his personal life that has an effect upon his public ministry. [00:22:06]

The marks at the Reformation – a right preaching of the Word of God, a right administration of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, a right practice of discipline – those were meant to be what marks off a true church from a false church. [00:30:23]

I think Arminianism, for example, is an extremely serious, serious heresy, but I’m not yet convinced that it disqualifies a person from entrance into the kingdom of God. I think that a person can embrace Arminian theology and be saved. [00:35:57]

I think in the church there is to be a beautiful variety of all kinds of people. I think when you walk in a church, it shouldn’t feel like I stepped into a fraternity house or a sorority house, that there is… that there are people of all different ethnic backgrounds to the extent that that’s even possible in the area in which you’re serving the Lord. [00:43:48]

I think it would be unkind not to call upon people to examine themselves to see whether they be in the faith. So, and I can’t remember how exactly how the question was worded, but I have pastored an unregenerate church, and you just can’t allow things to continue as they are. [00:49:29]

And this is in one case in which zealous evangelism has done a serious disservice because in our evangelistic outreach programs we want so much to bear fruit in evangelism. We want to simplify what it means to become a Christian. “If you want to be a Christian today, raise your hand. I see that hand. Come forward to the altar.” [00:51:12]

Friends, we are called to judge. Now, we don’t judge in the final sense that Jesus is forbidding in Matthew 7:1, but in an intermittent sense we are called in the local church to get to know each other and to ask other people to speak lovingly into our lives for discernment. [00:54:41]

I think you already said that, in its full-orbed consistency. The danger with Arminianism is that if the Arminian says, “I believe that I am justified by faith alone, by Christ alone, through grace alone, and the reason I was elect is that because I gave the right answer to the gospel when my neighbor gave the wrong answer to the gospel.” [00:41:44]

I think we can separate in our churches over language because we have to have a language that we can share to be a congregation together, but ethnicity beyond that. So the question is, what do you do if you’re a faithful evangelical preacher and you go into an Asian American church or you go into an African American church or you go into a white church, even if it doesn’t say “whites only,” if that’s basically what it is, I mean, what do you do? [00:45:10]

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Transcript
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