“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)
During Jesus’ earthly ministry, He modeled working in team. It is our great privilege and delight as His ministers and ambassadors, to follow His calling in working together and discipling one another. To this end, leaders from our partnering churches across Europe gathered to find the heart of God, as well as inspire, strategise and refresh one another.
As leaders in the partnership, it was important to use this time to deepen relationships and strengthen unity, being reminded that the first goal is always Jesus: making Him front and center, as the Bride of Christ is being prepared.
… the first goal is always Jesus: making Him front and center…
Clear themes arose over the course of powerful apostolic teaching and input – mainly around discipleship and obedience.
“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.” – Luke 14:27 (ESV)
Ryan Kingsley remarked that they felt such a clear reminder from the Lord to return to making genuine disciples: “That every believer, including all of us at this connect time, has to be progressing in our submission to Him fully as Lord, in every area of heart, mind and body.”
Themes arose mainly around discipleship and obedience.
It was understood that the Lord was seeking shepherds that would teach believers to be obedient to Him, discipling them into the image of Christ. This call was also to the lands beyond one’s local shores, igniting a flame in many hearts to impact the nations.
No connect time would be complete without considering the vital importance of partnering with the apostolic. Through illustrations it was made clear, according to Euan MacRae, that “Apostolic input and teaching are crucial, if we are going to build a church that accords with the pattern of the Architect’s blueprint.”
Leaders must build His Church, in His way, discipling saints into the image of Christ. As these leaders now impart the apostolic messages to their churches, all the saints receive the benefit and blessing of these significant times.
Kevin Aldridge observed beautifully: “As shepherds, we are to prepare a bride who will walk down the aisle in all her splendour as one who has kept herself; a bride who has devoted herself to the wedding day; a bride who is dressed in beautiful white; a bride who is pure and holy and ready for her Groom.”
Read more about the powerful work of God in the hearts of saints and leaders alike, to further build His church, during the Netherlands Regional Equip.
