Víra mnohých časem ochladla. Otupěla a to obrovské nadšení, které následovalo po obrácení, postupně vychladlo. Křesťanský život se stal pohodlným a jednoduchým. Téměř to vypadá, jakoby se vzdalovali živému Bohu.
I když se může zdát, že jde o popis nás samotných nebo dokonce o stav současné církve, je to obraz Izraele v Malachiášově době. Prorok probírá problém našeho duchovního úpadku, zkamenělosti víry. Bůh skrze Malachiáše konfrontuje Izrael s jeho duchovním stavem a obviňuje jej.
John Benton ukazuje, že kniha Malachiáše je výzvou k opuštění nedbalého a prázdného náboženství a naznačuje cestu zpět k upřímné a vytrvalé víře v Boha, který se nemění.
The predominant religion in many parts of the world today is expressive individualism, which influences the religious intuitions of non-Christian neighbors, children, and even church members. Understanding this concept and its impact on the church is vital for effective pastoral ministry.
The content covers various aspects of expressive individualism, beginning with its introduction and the necessity for pastors to grasp its implications. Key contributions include discussions on whether 9Marks churches foster this individualism, summaries of influential works, and insights into finding identity in Christ. The relationship between expressive individualism and the church is explored through multiple lenses, including preaching, pastoring singles, youth ministry, and church discipline.
The influence of the internet on expressive individualism is examined, highlighting how social media can divide churches. Additionally, the text addresses contemporary issues surrounding gender and sexuality, emphasizing the need to turn to Scripture for guidance.
Finally, it includes reflections on the qualities of church elders, particularly regarding quarrelsomeness, and offers practical advice on recognizing and addressing such behaviors. 9Marks aims to help pastors and church members understand and implement biblical principles in their communities through various resources and events.
First published in 2005, this book continues to be relevant, godly advice from an experienced pastor and author. It has been out of print for some time, and is now reissued with a new preface and a completely revised layout and cover. John Benton has written a sensitive and practical book out of a heartfelt concern for the many small groups of God's people who meet regularly and faithfully, but who may sometimes feel weak or isolated. Little churches can be the seeds from which God may yet give a might harvest, for his glory.
In a self-centred, immature world the Church is called to be different. Christians of all ages should be growing in spiritual maturity. John Benton guides us through what the book of Philippians has to say about a maturing church and gives helpful suggestions for how this can be put into practice and shows the joy that can be ours when we live God's way.
