Subject: purpose driven? |
Bible Note: Greetings Angel3! I would say it is a bit of both! :-) John 15:14 makes it clear that we cannot bear fruit without abiding in Him. However, John 15:2 makes it clear that branches are 'cut off' for not bearing fruit and John 15:6 makes it clear that branches are cut off and burned for not abiding in Him. Also note that 'bear' in John 15:8 is active in voice. We are 'to bear'. The verse does not say that we will be made to bear (passive). If, as a church, we sit back and do nothing, we will not grow. If we don't invite people to services, and if we don't share our faith with those around us, and if we don't pray for the lost, and if we don't preach the Gospel, then there will be no fruit. If we do not go, we cannot make disciples. :-) So, Rick Warren simply advocates doing the ministry of the Church in an effective manner, by being intentional about what we do as a church. As I said, I haven't read 'The Purpose Driven Life' yet, so I can't really comment on it. But, I found 'The Purpose Driven Church' to be one of the best ministry books I have ever read. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |