We are discovering together what the Bible says about wellbeing.
Otherwise, how can you live a more satisfied, fulfilling life? Recently we have
been discussing the 5 Scriptural tools to maturity (Acts 2:42, 47) as a means
to build powerful Biblically based wellbeing into our lives! Today, we discuss
the 5th and final tool: outreach to other believers and
non-Christians.
The first four characteristics of the early church (prayer, praise,
fellowship and receiving Biblical teaching) were centered around assisting the
individual believer and the faith community itself. However the 5th principle concerns reaching
beyond the established community to those in need, physical or spiritual. This tool
was noted in Acts 2:47 ‘the ‘Lord added to the church
daily.’
Since we know that to believe in Christ people have to be told verbally (Romans
10: 14), consistent with one of Christ’s last commands on earth to ‘teach
all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of
the Holy Spirit’ (Matthew
28:19), it is highly probable that those in the first church were telling
others about their faith.
Further, the Apostle Paul urges us to teach others individuals in
the faith (I Timothy 4:6, 11, 16; II Timothy 2:25). Even more simply we are to
encourage one another to love and do good works (Hebrews10:24) and to speak to
others according to their need (Ephesians 4:29).
Beyond this we are told to do good and pray for all men, be good
citizens (I Timothy 2:1-2; I Peter 2:13-15), work hard and honestly to the
glory of God (II Thessalonians 3:10-12, I Timothy 2:1-2; Colossians 3:17), and within
the church provide social help to those in need (I Timothy 5:1-16).
Why does Scripture tell us to reach out to serve and influence others
by teaching our beliefs? We do not know for certain, but we might hypothesize
several results of teaching and serving others:
It takes our mind off ourselves and focuses on someone else's needs.
This most likely is healthy for us and gives our mind a rest from ruminating
over our own troubles.
It orients our goals under those of the almighty God and recognizes
His purposes are greater than ours. Therefore, our personal troubles are set in
proper perspective, providing a balance to our own mental health.
It helps build community, both in numbers and maturity, by
encouraging a civil and gracious society.
Outreach and service combine as the last of our 5 tools to
maturity. When practiced in balance according to God's Word these 5 areas will
provide you the opportunity to incorporate the wise characteristics in the
Bible that were known by the apostles and the first generation Christians.
What are these characteristics that are so beneficial to wellbeing?
Join me next week as we begin our discussion of the Biblical characteristics
that can change your life.
Which of the five tools to maturity is most important? To participate in our latest poll
question - please visit our website at http://teleiosresearch.com/#anchorpoll
WC Stewart
http://teleiosblog.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch/
@TeleiosResearch
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