Orlando, FL 2009: Solid Food or Milk? Spiritually, the Bible calls us to begin by craving milk. Eventually, we are supposed to graduate to solid food. But, those seeking spiritually solid food must prove genuineness via love.
From Trent Ling:
In Acts 13:2, the Holy Spirit set apart Paul and Barnabas for called and specialized work in the Lord. Similarly, months ago, the same Holy Spirit set apart seven serious brothers for various higher octane work in this ministry, dubbing them “solid food brothers.” It was not a popular designation in or out of this ministry.
In the matter of taking this ministry public, great efforts and sacrifices are required. One of the most daunting tasks for a real ministry that does not ignore the teachings of the bible is to lay down personal lives publicly. This can and does regularly result in being ridiculed, mocked, and misunderstood by the spiritually naive. Knowing that this mistreatment is what Jesus also received, we have the joyful opportunity to surrender and to enjoy fellowship with Jesus. Everyone in this ministry was invited to join in this public demonstration of love.
However, it was no surprise as it turned out that the only participants on the Love Page turned out to be the seven “solid food brothers,” each of their wives, and Mila. This “irony” or “happenstance” is really just an opportunity to bow before you, God, “so that you may be proved right when you speak and prevail when you judge.” Romans 3:4.
Without discussion, prodding, or any reminders, these now “Love Brothers,” each of their wives, and Mila offered themselves humbly as servants to the world with much enthusiasm and on their own initiative. 2 Corinthians 8:17. Our role and our motives are clear in the Scriptures: “For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” 2 Corinthians 4:5. These fourteen brothers and sisters live these verses freely and gladly. Each of the fourteen did “give what he/she decided in his/her heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7.
All disciples are called to a standard of Matthew 10:8, “Freely you have received, freely give.” Those with lives found wanting and unrepentant with regard to this elementary verse should expect to remain on spiritual milk for a lifetime as a very best case scenario.
Jesus’ example to follow in John 10:17-18 is as he says: “The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.”
Thank you, “love brothers” and “love sisters.” God will call for much more now that you have proven faithful in a very small matter. Luke 19:17. May you be joined by those in this sheep pen who repent, and/or by those from another sheep pen moved in heart to join you in following Jesus’ call and example. John 10:16. Take heart as the workers will always be few!
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