..and wisdom....

Tim Chester at The Resurgence is on the money once again:

The great Reformer Martin Luther spoke of theologies of glory and a theology of the cross. Theologies of glory look for the revelation of God in his mighty works: creation, miracles, spiritual experiences. But this kind of knowledge, said Luther, only puffs people up. Instead God has chosen to reveal himself supremely in the cross. And that means revelation is only discernible by faith. Only by faith do we see in the weakness, foolishness, and shame of the cross the power, wisdom, and victory of God. Theologies of glory lead to pride. The theology of the cross leads to humility—or, in Luther’s language, humiliation.

Now apply the same idea to our churches. Churches of glory will put their confidence in mighty works: stage performances, big budgets, large numbers, powerful arguments, charismatic preachers. A church of the cross will be characterized by power in weakness, wisdom in foolishness, victory in shame. Its confidence will be in the sovereignty of God, the presence of his Spirit, and the power of his Word. Jesus said the kingdom of God has been given to “my little flock.” Most of the time it will be under the radar. But, like yeast in dough, it will grow unseen to fill the earth.

Wise words indeed.

As both Lincoln University Christian Fellowship and Lincoln University International Christian Fellowship approach Easter they are praying about using the opportunity to proclaim Jesus. Lectures go right up to Good Friday so Easter, or maybe more properly Easter holidays, will be in the minds of many in that last week of term.
Ideas abound:
- Hot cross bun with a verse giveaway
- Last supper meal, reclining at tables, with a 10 minute evangelistic talk and open questions
- Easter egg hunt

Please do join me in praying that these two small groups at Lincoln Uni will, in the words of Chester, have confidence '...in the sovereignty of God, the presence of his Spirit, and the power of his Word.' They may well be 'under the radar' but God has chosen to use the foolish things of this world to show his glory.

I've been asked to preach at our home church here in Lincoln on Easter Sunday! What an opportunity, but what a responsibility! So if you'd like to pray that I too have that same confidence I'd appreciate that.