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

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Sess i on 7: A Ca l l to Suf fer i ng

(1) Phil. 2.17 (ESV) – Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. (2) Col. 1.24 (ESV) – Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the Church. 6. We must be ever ready to lay down our very lives for the sake of our brothers and sisters in the Church of Jesus Christ, 1 John 3.16 (ESV) – By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.

II. Responding to the Call

A. Implications for urban ministry

1. The essence of all Christian ministry is conformity to the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. He is the prototype and pattern of all ministry.

2. Following Jesus’ example, authentic Christian leadership will inevitably involve both sacrifice and suffering . There can be no exceptions to this rule.

3. Those who lead will undoubtedly experience persecution with other disciples, but will probably be called to more intensely represent Jesus’ interests. We ought not be surprised to see God’s leaders subjected to more exposure to persecution, struggle, and care.