EncounterLife Jesus' ModelSample

A Friend of God, a Friend to Sinners

Jesus’ model for ministry is not difficult. He gives a clear progression for how to reach the lost. Go to homes, speak peace, and heal the sick. This is the what, but the why is more important.

God calls us friends and invites us to feel what He feels and think what He thinks toward a broken world. A friend of God, by default, must also be a friend to sinners. We find the confidence to love the lost like Jesus does as we learn to weep with Him in the place of intercession. Prayer is critical. It plumb-lines our hearts to His so that we are tender and compassionate toward those in need.

No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends. —John 15:15 (NKJV)

Jesus sends us out into the harvest field with the ability to heal the sick and speak the Gospel of reconciliation. It’s a given. We don’t have to earn the power of God. His love compels us. Jesus promised us that the works would be great. Therefore, we don’t need to worry about the impact.

He who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these. —John 14:12 (NKJV)

THE HARVEST IS WAITING FOR YOU… GET READY!

While He has promised fruit from our ministry, the most profound reality is that we are His friends. This bedrock of truth is our primary motivation. God desires all to draw near to His heart, and our role as His friends is to point others to Him.