Friend, the church finds its life as it listens to the Word of God. It finds its purpose as it lives out and displays the Word of God. The churchโs job is to listen and then to echo.
Mark DeverSuffering can serve us. Suffering tests our trust in God's promises. And we have a great interest in knowing the truth about our trust in Him.
Mark DeverI want to defend the right of employees to share the gospel in appropriate situations. Every situation requires wisdom and insight. I don't think it's wise to say, "Share the gospel every time you can". I can see all kinds of problems that come from that approach.
Mark DeverI think that there are many things in the New Testament that show us that the godliness of our conversation plays an important evangelistic role. The apostles are clear that we mustn't limit the explicit sharing of the gospel to formal preaching. It can also happen in ordinary conversations.
Mark DeverLet's say that you want to do everything out of the joy that comes from knowing the Lord. Well, a lot of people aren't built like that emotionally. If they think that some sort of feeling is the basis for their action, they are going to feel justified sitting around, although they are going to feel bad that they have never taken one step of obedience because their heart is cold.
Mark DeverDo you want to know that your new life is real? Commit yourself to a local group of saved sinners. Try to love them. Donโt just do it for three weeks. Donโt just do it for six months. Do it for years. And I think youโll find out, and others will, too, whether or not you love God. The truth will show itself
Mark Dever