Category: What do you think?

God Uses Ordinary People in Extraordinary Ways

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things. This truth shines through in the story of Shamgar, a little-known judge in ancient Israel. Shamgar’s tale reminds us that God can use anyone, no matter how unremarkable they may seem, to bring about His purposes.

In Shamgar’s time, Israel was facing a dire situation. The Philistines had taken control of the main roads, cutting off supplies and wearing down the Israelites through a war of attrition. The people were forced to use winding back roads and mountain paths just to get around. It seemed like a hopeless situation, but God had a plan.

Enter Shamgar, an ordinary man with no special qualifications mentioned in the Bible. There was no dramatic calling like a burning bush or a blinding light. Yet God chose this everyday person to save Israel. Armed only with an ox goad, Shamgar struck down 600 Philistines and brought peace to the land.

Shamgar’s story teaches us that God’s word is always useful and profitable, even in the brief mentions that might seem unimportant at first glance. As it says in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” Every part of the Bible, including the short account of Shamgar, has something valuable to teach us.

This year, as we think about making changes in our lives, we should ask ourselves: “Am I where God wants me to be, and am I doing what God wants me to do?” Like Shamgar, we may feel ordinary or ill-equipped, but God can use us in mighty ways if we’re willing to answer His call. We don’t need special qualifications or dramatic experiences – just a willingness to serve where God places us

The Unique Significance of Pentecost in Acts 2

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The book of Acts gives a remarkable account of the day of Pentecost in chapter 2. This event marked a pivotal moment in history when God sent His Spirit in an extraordinary way. The apostles boldly proclaimed God’s message, and the world around them paid attention. Some people today suggest that every church gathering should aim to recreate such experiences. But is that expectation realistic given the unique context of Pentecost? And how should this passage influence the church now?

Pentecost was an exceptional, one-time event. It was not intended to set a recurring pattern for Christian worship. The Holy Spirit visibly descended like tongues of fire, and the apostles spoke in real, identifiable languages—not meaningless sounds but known languages that people understood in their native tongues. Acts 2 makes it clear that this miraculous sign served a distinct purpose: to demonstrate the Spirit’s arrival and signal the beginning of the church.

Similar events occurred later in Acts, such as among the Gentiles in chapter 8 and followers of John the Baptist. These moments introduced different groups into the church but were not meant to define the regular Christian experience. These miraculous signs were God’s way of confirming His work during that unique time in history.

While Christians today may not witness such dramatic signs, the message of Pentecost remains vital. It reminds us that God’s Spirit empowers His church to proclaim the gospel to all nations. As Paul wrote, “For in one Spirit we were all baptised into one body” (1 Corinthians 12:13). The church’s focus should be on living out this unity and sharing God’s word, not on seeking miraculous signs as a norm.

The Power of God’s Voice

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

In the Old Testament, the phrase “Thus saith the Lord” appears 222 times, especially in the writings of the prophets. These words carried God’s message to His people, often calling them back from straying into harmful ways. The prophets delivered God’s correction, urging His people to return to the path of life and avoid the dangers of the wrong road.

Isn’t it true that we all lose our way at times? Each of us needs guidance and correction. Scripture shines a light on the wrong choices we make and redirects us to the right path. It helps protect us as we walk forward, ensuring we stay on solid ground.

God’s voice should never be ignored or taken lightly. It is a voice full of grace, working to repair what is broken and restore what has been lost. As Proverbs 3:12 reminds us, “For whom the Lord loves He disciplines, Just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights.” His words guide us not out of anger, but out of deep love and a desire to see us thrive.

Let us listen to His voice, embracing its call to life and renewal.

Facing Anxiety in Evangelism with Confidence

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

The thought of evangelism often stirs mixed emotions—excitement, nervousness, and even fear. This is not surprising, as the New Testament recognizes these reactions and addresses them directly. The Apostle Paul boldly declared in Romans 1:16, “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” While most Christians would agree they are not ashamed of the gospel, many still admit feeling anxious about sharing it. But is there a distinction between anxiety and shame, and what did Paul mean by his statement?

Anxiety and shame are indeed different. Anxiety often arises when we approach someone with the gospel because of the nature of the message. It involves telling people hard truths: that humanity is sinful and deserving of eternal punishment. This can feel daunting because it’s not the easiest conversation to begin. However, acknowledging the problem of sin is essential since the question of salvation hinges on being saved from something—and that something is eternal separation from God.

Paul’s encouragement not to be ashamed reminds believers to move beyond their fears. Sharing the gospel requires confronting these feelings and focusing on the incredible hope offered through salvation. The good news of Jesus Christ is the most transformative message anyone can hear. A practical way to start is by framing it positively: “I have the best news you’ll ever hear.” This approach can help ease anxiety and create an opening for deeper conversation.

Evangelism calls for courage, but it also reminds us of our mission to share God’s love and redemption. As Paul demonstrated, confidence in the gospel’s power can overcome any hesitation.

The Spiritual Decline of Society: A Biblical Perspective

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

In recent years, society has experienced a significant spiritual shift. This change mirrors the pattern described in the Bible, particularly in the book of Romans. As evolution becomes the prevailing worldview and people live as if God doesn’t exist, society has embraced behaviours that the Bible considers sinful.

The apostle Paul’s words in Romans 1 seem eerily relevant to our current situation. He describes a society where God “gave them over” to their sinful desires. This phrase, originally a legal term, signifies divine judgment on nations that reject God’s truth.

The progression of this judgment follows a clear pattern:

  • Sexual immorality becomes widespread
  • Immorality is embraced and celebrated
  • A “reprobate mind” takes hold, where people can no longer discern right from wrong

Sadly, these stages are evident in society today. From the normalization of sexual promiscuity to the widespread acceptance of immorality, and the celebration of increasingly depraved behaviours, the parallels are striking.

Romans 1:28 states, “And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done.” This verse encapsulates the current state of affairs, where moral relativism reigns and biblical values are scorned.

In light of this sobering reality, Christians are called to pray fervently for a spiritual revival. Only through a return to the gospel can the nation hope to reverse this downward spiral and experience God’s grace once more.