Planting Churches Among the City's Poor - Volume 2

60 • P LANTING C HURCHES AMONG THE C ITY ’ S P OOR : V OLUME 2

d. Commanded to be silent on or allow for differences on things that previously were a big part of your own thinking and practice

e. Struggling with persistent doubt with the judgment and/or motives of one’s leaders and/or superiors

f. Living in freedom in an inter-denominational setting regarding things that are different from your own denomination’s views 3. The challenge of character : How does one’s character shape and affect the kind of representation that you offer to your sender? a. Scripture: 2 Tim. 2.1-7 (ESV) – You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits , since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules . It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops . Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.

b. Struggling with limited remuneration and salary compared to others of your age and profession

(1) Only earning furniture that you buy and have to put together yourself, or came from a donation

(2) Only driving cars that leak and sputter when they do run

(3) Facing depression due to unbroken ministry fatigue and failure

(4) Living in a community with people who do not want you there or like you very much

(5) Wearing clothes that “completed the cycle”: that were hip, went out of style, and now are back in style