Going Into Labor With God's Work - Santosh Poonen - September 2, 2012
http://rlcfchurch.org/going-into-labor-with-gods-work River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The message uses the concept of 'labor'—drawing parallels between childbirth and ministry—to urge the congregation to become dedicated laborers for God's work. Jesus sent out the 70, not as mere employees, but as laborers expected to face challenges like lambs among wolves. True discipleship requires a 'mother mentality,' meaning a willingness to carry the burden and actively participate in the work without waiting for others to take the lead.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Harvest is Plentiful, but Laborers are FewJesus sent out the seventy disciples not as casual 9-to-5 employees, but as laborers going out like lambs among wolves.
The Deep Significance of LaborThe word labor takes on a much deeper meaning when compared to the pain, endurance, and motherly mentality required to carry and birth a child.
God Ordains His Work to be Birthed Through UsInstead of using angels or loud speakers, God chooses to conceive His work through the Holy Spirit in willing believers who embrace the pain of discipleship.
Remember Jesus Christ Risen from the DeadPaul tells Timothy to look to Jesus, who endured flesh-and-blood temptation and suffering without a single murmur of complaint against the Father.2 Timothy 2:8
Unleashing the Word of God Through TrialsWe imprison the word of God when we lack faith in our suffering; Paul suffered greatly as a criminal, but the word of God remained unhindered.
Counting Everything as Loss for ChristPaul surrendered his comfort, reputation, and rights, choosing to know Christ and the power of His resurrection through a life poured out.Philippians 3:7
Understanding Membership in Christ's BodyTrue local church membership goes beyond checking a box; it requires the active spirit of bearing burdens and caring deeply for one another.
Suffering and Rejoicing TogetherGod's design for the body of Christ is that when one member suffers, all suffer, and when one is honored, all rejoice together without jealousy.1 Corinthians 12:25–26
Poured Out as a Drink OfferingPaul neared the end of his course recognizing he was being poured out as a drink offering, having fought the good fight and kept the faith.
The Example of CT StuddMissionaries like CT Studd left behind worldly prestige and comfort to pour their lives out in suffering for those who had never heard the gospel.
Burning Out the Lamp of LifeWith only one life that will soon pass, a believer's greatest joy is to have their life completely burned out at their own expense for the Lord.
