Is Preaching the Gospel Without Using Words Possible?
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I don't think you realize what you are saying here.
Philippians 2
12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Mark 5
33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him ALL the truth.
Because this telling to Him ALL the TRUTH, is so hard? For most of us? (which seems you obviously are not. Elst you would not be saying this. Right?) It cannot possibly be done "in one sitting", so to speak.
Without actually KILLING the flesh! Cuz, if the fear don't "get ya?" The trembling will.
Ya see? Paul knew this, and (also) saw what this was doing! Hence?:
Romans 6
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?......
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Philippians 2
12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Mark 5
33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him ALL the truth.
Because this telling to Him ALL the TRUTH, is so hard? For most of us? (which seems you obviously are not. Elst you would not be saying this. Right?) It cannot possibly be done "in one sitting", so to speak.
Without actually KILLING the flesh! Cuz, if the fear don't "get ya?" The trembling will.
Ya see? Paul knew this, and (also) saw what this was doing! Hence?:
Romans 6
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?......
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
One of the most beloved Christian quotes of all time has been credited to St. Francis of Assisi. It goes like this,
Can we really lead someone to Christ by simply acting like a Christian is supposed to act, or are words necessary?
The Apostle Paul weighed in on this matter, yes .. e.g. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Romans 10:17, as did the Lord, John the Baptist, the other Apostles at various times.
So, are the words of this quote wise, or are they folly (or something even worse perhaps)
What do you think, and why?
Thanks!
~Deut
p.s. - here's a very interesting article concerning this quote that you may find a little surprising. I know I did when I first read it. Click here to read it: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/gstanton/what-st.-francis-of-assisi-didnt-actually-say
.
........“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary”
Can we really lead someone to Christ by simply acting like a Christian is supposed to act, or are words necessary?
The Apostle Paul weighed in on this matter, yes .. e.g. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Romans 10:17, as did the Lord, John the Baptist, the other Apostles at various times.
So, are the words of this quote wise, or are they folly (or something even worse perhaps)
What do you think, and why?
Thanks!
~Deut
p.s. - here's a very interesting article concerning this quote that you may find a little surprising. I know I did when I first read it. Click here to read it: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/gstanton/what-st.-francis-of-assisi-didnt-actually-say
.
Of course, the normal way for this to be done is with words. You can live a good moral life around another person, and if you never tell them about Jesus, they will perish and go to hell. (Unless they hear some other way).
But as a few have pointed out, proclamation can be by sign language, or by other means that do not use words. But it is still clearly "preaching". You could also give someone a Bible by which the truth will be "proclaimed" to them: all this without you saying a word.
If it was not possible to preach the Gospel without using words then the dumb person unable to speak could not "proclaim" the Good News.
2Corinthians 3:1-3
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?
Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:
Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?
Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:
Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
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I am not sure I undeerstand that quote attributed to st francis...but again realise that he was also preaching to birds and they dont really use words like we use. Also they cant read.
Humans use language thats whats unique about us that we can speak. Animals dont talk like we do, or if they can they can only copy its not their prime method of communication. Also they dont have a written language like humans do and cant read. If anyone has been to an oral culture yes they exist but in many cases the first instance of writing comes from Chritians missionaries who write down that language and translate the Bible into their own language for them. Thus these words are necessary.
Its the reason why God gave the ten commandments to Moses written by his finger on stone tablets. If he hadnt written down those words maybe the Israelites would have heard but they could then easily forget them.
Humans use language thats whats unique about us that we can speak. Animals dont talk like we do, or if they can they can only copy its not their prime method of communication. Also they dont have a written language like humans do and cant read. If anyone has been to an oral culture yes they exist but in many cases the first instance of writing comes from Chritians missionaries who write down that language and translate the Bible into their own language for them. Thus these words are necessary.
Its the reason why God gave the ten commandments to Moses written by his finger on stone tablets. If he hadnt written down those words maybe the Israelites would have heard but they could then easily forget them.
I don't think you realize what you are saying here.
Philippians 2
12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Mark 5
33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him ALL the truth.
Because this telling to Him ALL the TRUTH, is so hard? For most of us? (which seems you obviously are not. Elst you would not be saying this. Right?) It cannot possibly be done "in one sitting", so to speak.
Without actually KILLING the flesh! Cuz, if the fear don't "get ya?" The trembling will.
Ya see? Paul knew this, and (also) saw what this was doing! Hence?:
Romans 6
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?......
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Philippians 2
12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Mark 5
33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him ALL the truth.
Because this telling to Him ALL the TRUTH, is so hard? For most of us? (which seems you obviously are not. Elst you would not be saying this. Right?) It cannot possibly be done "in one sitting", so to speak.
Without actually KILLING the flesh! Cuz, if the fear don't "get ya?" The trembling will.
Ya see? Paul knew this, and (also) saw what this was doing! Hence?:
Romans 6
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?......
2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Hi NayborBear, this verse was/is written to those who are ~already~ believers, those who have already come into possession of eternal life ..
cf John 5:24 (to the "beloved", who "have always obeyed").
This is not an admonishment to non-Christians to work their way into the faith, nor a call to those of us who are already born again to secure our faith on the basis of what we do. Rather, it's the Apostle's glorious call to the saints to come alongside of God and work with Him as He continues His mighty work in us to grow us up in His Son, and that from here to Glory .. Philippians 1:6, 2:12-13.
Philippians 2:12 tells us to "work out" .. NOT work at/work up/work for .. our salvation. Just like we "work out" our bodies to make them stronger and healthier, so we are called to do what we can to "work out" our salvation (as God continues to work in us/sanctify us).
But, we are saved by grace alone through faith alone, on the basis of what Jesus did for us (not because of anything 'we' do), and that from first to last.
~Deut
cf John 5:24 (to the "beloved", who "have always obeyed").
This is not an admonishment to non-Christians to work their way into the faith, nor a call to those of us who are already born again to secure our faith on the basis of what we do. Rather, it's the Apostle's glorious call to the saints to come alongside of God and work with Him as He continues His mighty work in us to grow us up in His Son, and that from here to Glory .. Philippians 1:6, 2:12-13.
Philippians 2:12 tells us to "work out" .. NOT work at/work up/work for .. our salvation. Just like we "work out" our bodies to make them stronger and healthier, so we are called to do what we can to "work out" our salvation (as God continues to work in us/sanctify us).
But, we are saved by grace alone through faith alone, on the basis of what Jesus did for us (not because of anything 'we' do), and that from first to last.
~Deut
I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus .. So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure .. Philippians 1:6, 2:12-13
.
One of the most beloved Christian quotes of all time has been credited to St. Francis of Assisi. It goes like this,
Can we really lead someone to Christ by simply acting like a Christian is supposed to act, or are words necessary?
The Apostle Paul weighed in on this matter, yes .. e.g. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Romans 10:17, as did the Lord, John the Baptist, the other Apostles at various times.
So, are the words of this quote wise, or are they folly (or something even worse perhaps)
What do you think, and why?
Thanks!
~Deut
p.s. - here's a very interesting article concerning this quote that you may find a little surprising. I know I did when I first read it. Click here to read it: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/gstanton/what-st.-francis-of-assisi-didnt-actually-say
.
........“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary”
Can we really lead someone to Christ by simply acting like a Christian is supposed to act, or are words necessary?
The Apostle Paul weighed in on this matter, yes .. e.g. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Romans 10:17, as did the Lord, John the Baptist, the other Apostles at various times.
So, are the words of this quote wise, or are they folly (or something even worse perhaps)
What do you think, and why?
Thanks!
~Deut
p.s. - here's a very interesting article concerning this quote that you may find a little surprising. I know I did when I first read it. Click here to read it: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/gstanton/what-st.-francis-of-assisi-didnt-actually-say
.
1Pe 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Like they say actions speak louder than words.
If we don't have the lifestyle will they believe the words, and if they believe the words without the lifestyle it is only producing hypocrites.
Of course there is always sign language.
Php 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
I hear what you are saying, but where does the fear and trembling come in.
1Co 10:5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
1Co 10:6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
1Co 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
Rev 2:4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
Rev 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Rev 3:2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.
Rev 3:3 Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.
I hear what you are saying, but where does the fear and trembling come in.
1Co 10:5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
1Co 10:6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
1Co 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
Rev 2:4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
Rev 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Rev 3:2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.
Rev 3:3 Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.
As I see it, Philippians 2:12 (and its phrase "with fear and trembling" per this context) should be viewed and understood in light of what was just said at the beginning of this epistle, so noting what Paul had just said in:
Phil1:13-14 [nasb] -
13 so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, 14 and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.
So, as I see it, Paul (in 2:12) is saying "work OUT [outwardly]" your salvation [the salvation you possess] "with fear and trembling," if not like those who now "have far more courage" because of his imprisonment, at least [still] "WITH fear and trembling" (this, in THIS context, refers to "in relation to" those with/to whom you are WORKING IT OUTWARDLY [i.e. the sphere of your life/ministry/community/neighborhood/surroundings/life], rather than "in relation to" God). Meaning, I believe this was the gist of what Paul was conveying to the Philippians.
That is how I see this CONTEXT (in view of the whole).
Phil1:13-14 [nasb] -
13 so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, 14 and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.
So, as I see it, Paul (in 2:12) is saying "work OUT [outwardly]" your salvation [the salvation you possess] "with fear and trembling," if not like those who now "have far more courage" because of his imprisonment, at least [still] "WITH fear and trembling" (this, in THIS context, refers to "in relation to" those with/to whom you are WORKING IT OUTWARDLY [i.e. the sphere of your life/ministry/community/neighborhood/surroundings/life], rather than "in relation to" God). Meaning, I believe this was the gist of what Paul was conveying to the Philippians.
That is how I see this CONTEXT (in view of the whole).
If what you are saying is true? Could you explain to me why Jesus would say this to these people?
Matthew 7
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Because it seems to me? These many it seems, APPARENTLY did do, or didn't do something! Right? Meaning they lived their entire lives in their BELIEVING, AND BEING TOLD CONSTANTLY? THEY WERE SAVED! FOR ALL ETERNITY!
Something don't add up here! Or perhaps Jesus was just putting forth some kind of warning, that one should never be so assured in ones' salvation? Should be like always SEEKING salvation, and working TOWARDS "His Righteousness?"
Matthew 6
33 But seek ye first the KINGDOM of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (like salvation?)
To me? Forgiveness, and Remission? Is one thing! Salvation? Quite another!
Just because everyone and their brother equate forgiveness and remission of sin, with being saved for all eternity? APPARENTLY? According to Jesus' words? Doesn't make 'em correct!
But, that's just the way I roll!
Matthew 7
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Because it seems to me? These many it seems, APPARENTLY did do, or didn't do something! Right? Meaning they lived their entire lives in their BELIEVING, AND BEING TOLD CONSTANTLY? THEY WERE SAVED! FOR ALL ETERNITY!
Something don't add up here! Or perhaps Jesus was just putting forth some kind of warning, that one should never be so assured in ones' salvation? Should be like always SEEKING salvation, and working TOWARDS "His Righteousness?"
Matthew 6
33 But seek ye first the KINGDOM of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (like salvation?)
To me? Forgiveness, and Remission? Is one thing! Salvation? Quite another!
Just because everyone and their brother equate forgiveness and remission of sin, with being saved for all eternity? APPARENTLY? According to Jesus' words? Doesn't make 'em correct!
But, that's just the way I roll!