Title: Embracing Humility in Gospel Advancement (04/23/'24) -Statement

Title: Embracing Humility in Gospel Advancement In the pursuit of advancing the gospel, individuals are encouraged to embody humility, mercy, love, and faith in action. This journey involves embracing foolishness for Christ's sake, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 4:10, and demonstrating mercy, love, and faith without the need for explicit proclamation, as advised in James 2:13, 1 John 3:18, and James 2:18, respectively. Furthermore, gospel advancement necessitates diligent work akin to that of ants, coupled with humility, as exemplified in Luke 17:10. The gospel challenges conventional notions of wisdom and might, emphasizing humility over worldly knowledge (John 14:6; 1 Corinthians 1:25, 21, 18) and valuing the humility of a child over the prowess of the mighty (Matthew 18:1-3; Job 34:24, 12:19). Leaders are reminded of their transient nature, likened to grass in Luke 12:27-28 and 1 Peter 1:24-25, while God's people are portrayed as vulnerable and dependent, resembling sheep or deer in the field (Luke 15:47; Hebrews 3:19). In summary, gospel advancement entails a humble and faithful approach, embodying Christ's teachings through actions rather than mere words, and recognizing the reversal of worldly values presented in the gospel narrative. Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 23, 2024)