Seeing God More Clearly

1
Seeing God More Clearly

• Theme Lessons Learned From South America.

2
Introduction

• There are always lessons to experience and/or
  learn when leaving the confines of material
  wealth that exists in our country (United States).

3
Introduction

• Some Christians in the U.S. know the lessons that
  will be discussed.
• They see Gods providence in their lives.
• They are committed to His word proclaimed.
• They are willing to stand against error.
• It is easier, however, to experience these
  lessons in areas where life is more difficult.

4
Introduction

• Here are some lessons learned from going to the
  remote parts of this world
• Gods divine providence more clearly seen.
• Commitment and zeal for hearing the word
  proclaimed.
• Stand against false doctrine.

5
Divine Providence (Cp. Matt. 625-34)

• Being at the mercy of Gods natural wonders.
• We conveniently go to the store to purchase
  goods.
• Many do not have this convenience but depend on
  God to provide their literal daily
  sustenance.

6
Divine Providence (Cp. Matt. 625-34)

• Christians in the midst of mans corruption.
• People in the U.S. are affected by corruption,
  but the blow to our personal well-being is not
  as significant as other areas of the world.
• In Ecuador, protests are held regularly because
  conditions so difficult.
• Many learn they cannot depend upon man, and out
  of these circumstances see Gods providential
  care more easily.

7
Divine Providence (Cp. Matt. 625-34)

• No church treasury.
• Many for stewardship reasons have a surplus for
  those just in case the money is needed.
• Many for stewardship reasons (in S. America) use
  the monies as soon as it is given
• Evangelism first and foremost.
• Any related bills.
• If there is a need, the brethren give according
  to fulfill the need.
• This last method relies upon God in times of
  
  need (which has always been provided).

8
Commitment (1 Peter 22)

• It is encouraging to see brethren in this country
  who strongly desire to grow in Gods word.
• Many will travel great distances to hear it and
  be edified.
• Many also use this time for vacation.
• Nothing wrong with thisin fact, it is quite
  edifying to know that vacations are used this way.

9
Commitment (1 Peter 22)

• But, there is another level of commitment when
  those with minimal finances will travel great
  distances to hear Gods word proclaimed.
• The cost of transportation makes the travel a
  financial sacrifice.
• The loss of financial gain by missing work to
  hear Gods word.
• Travel long distances over difficult terrain to
  hear Gods word.

10
Commitment (1 Peter 22)

• It is this latter group of circumstances that
  reveal a great commitment for brethren who desire
  to grow in the Lord literal sacrifices!

11
Stand against False Doctrine Free Union (2
Cor.1114-15)

• Many Christians fall prey to practices that are
  labeled in a palatable manner. Isa. 520-21
• Homosexuality now referred to as alternative
  lifestyle.
• Abortion typically defended as pro choice.

12
Stand against False Doctrine Free Union (2
Cor.1114-15)

• The teaching of Free Union has affected
  Christians in South America.
• This practice has now taken on an acceptable
  label called free union.
• Some Christians have been defending this practice
  despite the following
• Governments in Colombia nor Ecuador do not
  recognize this union (so far as Im aware).
• Ultimately the whole counsel of Gods word is
  being rejected. Cp. Rom. 131ff Tit. 31 1 Pet.
  213ff

13
Conclusion

• No doubt we can see God at work no matter where
  we live in the world.
• For many, however, going to the utter most parts
  of the world just make it easier to see both
  Gods divine providence and mans need for Him.