Verse of the Day (June 20, 2020) #BMSeminary – Jesus calls his disciples to let go of self-interest and self-reliance in order to be at Jesus’ disposal. As was the case in the call of Elisha (1 Kings 19:19–21), letting go of self-sufficiency is necessary in order to follow Jesus and his purposes. This radical call is fueled by the gospel, in which all our sins are forgiven and we are reconciled to God through Christ (objectively). And yet our ongoing growth in Christ should continue the process of reversing our profound alienation from God (subjectively), since such a surrendered “walking with God” is the original design for human beings. The follower of Christ realizes the enabling love of him who calls to such radical discipleship, recognizes the impurity in his own heart, and receives the reconciling and purifying work of Jesus on his or her behalf. Thus equipped, the disciple surrenders willingly small and large decisions, wishes, dreams, and so on, about marriage, work, and other aspirations. Such surrender includes the challenge of learning to bear responsibilities while keeping his or her will and thought in a guidable, non-controlling, and prayerful attitude before God. This type of surrender does not end with self-abasement but requires assumption of the status and duties now assigned by our Lord. A disciple must remember: the One he or she surrenders to is good, trustworthy, wise, and powerful. The Master loves his followers and enables their faithfulness. [Gospel Transformation Study Bible]
Verse of the Day (June 20, 2020) #BMSeminary – Jesus calls his disciples to let go of self-interest and self-reliance in order to be at Jesus’ disposal. As was the case in the call of Elisha (1 Kings 19:19–21), letting go of self-sufficiency is necessary in order to follow Jesus and his purposes. This radical call is fueled by the gospel, in which all our sins are forgiven and we are reconciled to God through Christ (objectively). And yet our ongoing growth in Christ should continue the process of reversing our profound alienation from God (subjectively), since such a surrendered “walking with God” is the original design for human beings. The follower of Christ realizes the enabling love of him who calls to such radical discipleship, recognizes the impurity in his own heart, and receives the reconciling and purifying work of Jesus on his or her behalf. Thus equipped, the disciple surrenders willingly small and large decisions, wishes, dreams, and so on, about marriage, work, and other aspirations. Such surrender includes the challenge of learning to bear responsibilities while keeping his or her will and thought in a guidable, non-controlling, and prayerful attitude before God. This type of surrender does not end with self-abasement but requires assumption of the status and duties now assigned by our Lord. A disciple must remember: the One he or she surrenders to is good, trustworthy, wise, and powerful. The Master loves his followers and enables their faithfulness. [Gospel Transformation Study Bible]
Baptist Ministerial Seminary 