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The Ministry Encouragement Podcast – Episode #35, by the Rev. Jim W. Hollis
02-27-13 – Sponsored by Proactive Ministries: www.proactive-ministries.org
Hello and welcome to Episode #35 of the Ministry Encouragement Podcast. I’m so delighted that you have chosen to be part of this incredibly relevant Episode as we discuss:
The Ministry of Peacemaking
and
The Reality & Resolution of Church Conflicts
I will be sharing today about what it means to become involved in The Ministry of Reconciliation, but be warned – this is not a ministry for casual worship attendees or merely religious persons. This is a ministry for mature Christians, particularly Leaders in the Christian Community, who are willing to risk themselves for the cause of Christ and the possibilities of peace, forgiveness, hope and reconciliation. This is a MUCH needed ministry today in more churches than you can imagine.
Some of the opening, foundational Scriptures I discuss in this Episode are:
The Ministry of Peacemaking Scriptures –
9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9, NIV)
15 The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice. (Proverbs 12:15, NIV)
9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. (I Thessalonians 5:9-11, NIV)
23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-25, NIV)
18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18, NIV)
I also go into some depth about what it really means to be engaged as a servant of Christ involved in the Ministry of Reconciliation. There are dangers, risks and pitfalls for anyone choosing to share in this kind of ministry. But the rewards spiritually are also incredible – to know that the Holy Spirit has used people like you and me to truly turn a tide of bitterness, strife and brokenness.
I hope that you will not only listen to this Episode, but to share it with others in your life. Perhaps you know of a pastor, a friend, a relative or a co-worker who is part of a congregation that is headed for the cliff of divisiveness and oppression. There are many times that professional intervention can be very effective in bringing reconciliation. Share this with them and encourage them to call me to discuss their particular situation. It can make a tremendous difference.
We will also look at why we are called by God to be involved in helping to bring reconciliation rather than ignoring it or trying to avoid it. We realize that most people are highly conflict avoidant and will avoid it at almost any cost. The cost can be enormous. It can harm our youth, children and many other “innocent” persons who get wounded by the collateral damage this strife can cause.
I hope that you will be encouraged today as we take a look at The Ministry of Peacemaking. Let me hear from you by email, phone or voicemail here on the blog page. I would love to answer questions you may have about how to bring hope to a situation that you or someone you care about may be involved in.
Until our next Episode, please keep our ministry in your prayers and I will keep you in prayers also. I would be honored to have you email me (Jim@ministryencouragementpodcast.com) or call our offices (770) 803-9988 with your prayer requests or questions.
Blessings in Christ’s Grace,
Jim
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