Now that Election 2016 has come to an end, many are asking how the stark divide in the country can be healed. Pastor Rick Warren says there’s a clear hope for our world, and it’s not politics – it’s all about Christians learning to serve others in the name of Christ.
Warren, author and pastor of Saddleback Church in California, says the way to change the world is to see the entire church working to empower every member to become a minister and a missionary.
In a recent article Warren says servant leaders look outward and allow God to work through them “to reach others with the love and hope of Jesus Christ.”
He says Christians have served since the early days through building relationships and providing comfort and help in times of natural disaster.
“Jesus gave us the map for changing the world.”
He shared the verse Acts 1:8 which says, “When the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and tell the people about me everywhere. In Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Warren goes on to say there are three big reasons Christians must share why each and every believer needs to become a servant-leader with a vision for impacting the world:
1. Jesus’ mission is your responsibility
The Gospel of Luke in chapter 12 says “Much is required from those to whom much is given, for their responsibility is greater.”
Warren says America is the most blessed area on the planet, and when people stand before God one day He’s going to say, “What did you do with all that talent, network, ability, freedom, all the things that I gave you, your brains, your health? What did you do with that?”
2. You have Jesus’ authority
Warren says Jesus has given his people the authority to carry out his mission in the world, to plant churches that promote reconciliation, equip servant-leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.
He also highlights the Great Commission, sharing Matthew 28:18: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me; therefore go and make disciples of all nations.”
3. The mission will inevitably be completed
Warren gives the reminder that history is moving toward a “climax,” because history is not circular, but linear.
“God is in control. God created the entire world so that he could create human beings, because he knew that some of them would voluntarily choose to love him and trust him,” he writes.
Warren also challenges readers by citing a verse from Psalm 67:2, saying, “Send us around the world with the news of your saving power and your eternal plan for all mankind. Will you be a part of history? You can impact the entire world.”
Read more at Rick Warren Has Hope for America: ‘Jesus Gave Us the Map’.
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