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

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An Authent i c Ca l l i ng: Represent i ng Chr i s t and Hi s Ki ngdom through the Chur ch

2. The call of God is a public, recognized call demonstrated through baptism.

James 1.9-11 (ESV) Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, [10] and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. [11] For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the Kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him? James 2.5 (ESV) Listen, my beloved

3. An authentic call of God cannot be lived out theoretically; an authentic call to community is displayed in loyalty and service within a particular church in a particular place .

4. Rejection of God’s covenant people casts doubt on the legitimacy of a professed call: “ If the Church ain’t yo’ mama, then God ain’t yo’ daddy ” (DJ Cyprian).

B. Connections to your life

1. Am I a part of a local church where I have membership, recognize the pastoral authority of its leaders, and where I use my gifts for the upbuilding of the Church?

2. What kind of criticism or language do I use about the people and leaders of the church I attend?

3. Do I love the Church, and seek ways to strengthen my church in every way, through my service, giving, prayer, and participation?

4. Do I sense a call to labor in the Church in a special way, a more formal way, and have I communicated this to my leaders in the Church?

5. What must I do to prepare myself for the next level of service on behalf of the Kingdom of God through my contribution to the Church?