An Authentic Calling: Representing Christ and His Kingdom through the Church

65

Sess i on 5: A Ca l l to Commun i t y

a. Authority defined: exousia - the legitimate right to do something, and the power to carry out that right ( representative authority under Christ )

(1) Luke 10.1, 16

(2) Matt. 10.19-20

(3) Matt. 28.18-20

(4) Titus 2.11-15

b. To defend the faith once delivered to the saints, Jude, Titus 1.9; 2 Tim. 2.22

Note: the authority given to the specially called is representative authority : the gifted

minister of God is granted authority

c. To protect and shepherd the flock from danger and predators, Acts 20

under the lordship of Jesus Christ , an authority only to provide nurture, care, protection, and blessing in the lives of others. (Cf. Mark 10.42-45) There is no authority

d. To shepherd and be examples to the flock, 1 Peter 5

e. To equip the saints for the work of the ministry, Ephesians 4

to tear down or destroy others , 2 Cor. 10.8.

f. To lead the flock into all the will of God, Heb. 13.17

II. Responding to the Call

The call to community is anchored in God’s intent to populate the new heavens and earth with the poor and the humble; the poor in this world have been chosen to be heirs of the Kingdom to come.

A. Implications for urban ministry

1. Only spiritual transformation through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ is sufficient for entrance into the body of Christ.