In the sermon titled "The Ministry Of The Called," Darvin Pruitt addresses the theological doctrine of God's calling, particularly focusing on its irresistible nature as seen through the life of Gideon in Judges 6:17-32. Pruitt emphasizes that God's call is not a mere invitation but an authoritative summons that irresistibly draws individuals to salvation and ministry. He underlines that this divine calling is a work initiated by God, citing Ephesians 2:1-5, which illustrates the transformation from spiritual death to life. Pruitt asserts the practical significance of this doctrine by encouraging believers to recognize their inherent call to ministry and the necessity of destroying false religions (or "groves") while establishing Christ as the foundation (the altar) of true worship. He illustrates these points throughout the sermon with biblical examples, arguing that every aspect of one's life and ministry must center on Christ to ensure the authenticity of worship and witness.
Key Quotes
“When God calls a man, he calls him. It’s an irresistible calling.”
“Nobody simply turns to the Lord. Nobody just all of a sudden changes their mind and realizes they need to change their course in life.”
“There can’t be two ways, there’s just one way. Christ said, I am the way.”
“Every false god in this world needs saving... God alone saves, and none can stay his hand or even question his counsel.”
The Bible teaches that the calling of God is miraculous and irresistible, drawing individuals to Himself without prior wrestling or hesitation.
The calling of God is outlined throughout Scripture as a work initiated by God, where He reveals His Son to chosen individuals. This calling is not a mere suggestion but a divine summons that compels the called to leave their former lives behind and follow Christ, as seen in the examples of Matthew, James, and John. The assurance of this divine calling is that it is always effective and does not involve years of indecision or doubt, reflecting the sovereign grace and irresistible nature of God's purposes in redemption.
Matthew 4:19, Galatians 1:15-16, Ephesians 2:1-5
Salvation is entirely from God, as Scripture emphasizes that it is not based on human will or effort, but solely on God's mercy and grace.
The doctrine of salvation asserts that it originates with God and is executed by His will, not by human decision or effort. As Ephesians 2 teaches, we were dead in our sins, entirely unable to rescue ourselves; therefore, salvation must come from God's intervention. The assertion that 'it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy' underscores that the entire work of salvation is God's doing—from calling to glorification. This revelation of God's grace and mercy highlights the exclusivity of Christ as the means of salvation.
Ephesians 2:1-10, Romans 9:16
Preaching against false religion is vital for Christians to protect the integrity of the true Gospel and guide believers away from deception.
The significance of preaching against false religion stems from the necessity to uphold the truth of the Gospel and safeguard the faith of believers. Throughout history, God has called His people to tear down pagan altars and expose false worship that can lead them astray. Joash's defense of Gideon illustrates the stance that while false beliefs and practices may appear appealing, they cannot coexist with the true worship of God. By confronting falsehood, Christians ensure that the purity of their doctrine remains intact and that they do not inadvertently affirm teachings that undermine faith in Christ. Thus, the task of preaching must include a clear warning against any ideology that distorts biblical truth.
2 Corinthians 10:4, Galatians 1:6-9
The altar represents Christ as the sole means of approach to God, underscoring the necessity of His sacrifice in our worship and ministry.
In Christian ministry, the altar symbolizes Christ, who is the perfect sacrifice that enables us to draw near to God. The altar was the first encounter for worshippers in the tabernacle, and it highlights the importance of sacrificial worship. Just as Gideon's actions required the destruction of false altars and the establishment of the true altar, ministry today must focus on delivering the message of Christ's redemptive work. This work involves not only recognizing Christ as our altar but also ensuring that false hopes and beliefs surrounding worship practices are eradicated, so that genuine worship can occur through faith in the finished work of Christ.
Hebrews 10:10-14, Ephesians 2:18
A preacher sent from God will be recognized by the truth of their message as confirmed by the Holy Spirit in the hearts of the listeners.
Discerning whether a preacher is truly sent from God involves evaluating the message they proclaim and the impact it has on the listener's heart. According to 1 John 4:5, we are to try the spirits to see whether they are of God, which means that God's elect will resonate with the truth spoken through the preacher. A genuine man of God will present the Gospel without deceit, relying on the Spirit's power to convict and transform hearts. If God's people respond to the message with understanding and affirmation, it confirms that the preacher speaks with authority from God. Therefore, the relationship between the speaker’s message, its faithful alignment with Scripture, and the listener's inner confirmation is crucial for discernment.
1 John 4:1-6, 2 Corinthians 4:1
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