Ezra 7:6-10
Introduction:
1. Having highlighted the responsibility laid upon us to carry the gospel to our neighbors, today we begin discussing things needed to prepare for the task at hand.
2. We will look at the three most fundamental aims necessary to prepare the individual today before pondering more specific elements needed for evangelistic success.
3. These three aims will prepare us for our ministry just as they did Ezra for his.
Discussion:
I. Seek His Will
A. Ezra prepared his heart first to seek God’s law (lit. ask, make inquisition, search- Strong).
B. Knowing that God’s power to save is the gospel (Romans 1:16-17) which must be taught to take effect (Romans 10:13-17; John 6:44-45), this imperative is plain.
C. We cannot teach what we do not know; many are sidelined from the work for this cause.
II. Do His Will
A. Knowing His will is only the beginning; we must live in congruence with it for our soul’s sake and those we would convert (Matthew 5:14-16; John 17:20-21; 1 Timothy 4:13-16).
B. The impact on evangelistic efforts is massive as people must know we are true to our convictions, or they will reject the message along with us (Romans 2:23-24; Titus 2:5).
C. Sinless perfection is unattainable, but faithfulness to the word is imperative.
III. Teach His Will
A. Having applied ourselves to learning and living His will, we are then ready to go make disciples as the commission demands (Matthew 28:18-20).
B. This may seem too obvious to state, but this is one area of His will we often struggle to live out, despite the fact that we know it.
C. There are numerous reasons why we fall short here: fear, lack of knowledge, social anxiety, etc., but we must determine to conquer these hindrances for lost souls’ sake.
Conclusion:
1. If we are determined to fulfill our commission, we must be prepared for the work.
2. These three overarching principles will set us on the right course to succeed.
3. Thankfully, He gives us room to grow into it (1 Peter 2:1ff; 2 Peter 3:18); the rest is up to us.
Further Food for Thought
1. Which of these three areas is your greatest challenge in keeping the commission?
2. What can we do collectively to facilitate your growth in this area?