by Calven Celliers
I have a book on my shelf, that I open on a fairly regular basis, for the simple reason that the content is so gripping, so inspiring. In the opening lines of the introductory chapter, the author, Jeff Van der Stelt communicates the truth that God’s vision, for every man, woman, and child in every place is to have a daily encounter with Jesus through words spoken and deeds done through His people.
“14 For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.”
(Habakkuk 2:14NIV)
God accomplishes this vision through His Son, who works through His body, the Church. As the apostle Paul says in his letter to the Church at Ephesus, “22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” (Ephesians 1: 22 & 23NIV) This is Jesus saturation. Jesus is the head of His body, the Church, through which He intends to fill every place with His presence.
“Can you imagine every city, every neighbourhood, every street, and every house saturated with Jesus’ presence through His people? What if, in every school, every classroom, and every extracurricular activity, students daily experienced the person and work of Jesus? Can you dream with me a day when no business office, retail center, or industrial hub can get away from the good news of Jesus proclaimed in words and expressed in gracious deeds? A day when every café, pub, restaurant, or bakery smells of the aroma of Christ? This is God’s intention for his world. And his plan is to do it through his people. He wants you to be part of it.” (Jeff Van der Stelt – Saturate)
Many Christians have unwittingly embraced the idea that “church” is a once-a-week event rather than a 24/7 calling of all believers. Being part of God’s vision is not for the spiritually elite. If you know, trust, love, and follow Jesus you are part of it.
“To every true Christian these two things may be said: You have need of Christ and Christ has need of you.” (William Arnot)
What is it that God left you on earth to do? What is it that we can do on earth that we can’t do in heaven? Just before He returned to heaven, Jesus explained to His disciples what they were to do after His ascension. What He said to them, He also says to us. He left us on the earth that we might be His witnesses. Listen to the words of Jesus in Acts 1:8 as he imparts this truth to his followers: “8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8NIV) These words emphasize two things that we as believers need to know: 1) The Holy Spirit empowers disciples, and 2) Spirit-filled disciples witness about Jesus.
Every sales person knows you can’t sell what you don’t believe in. People can tell a mile away if you’re just reading from a manual or rehearsing a memorized presentation. The best sales people are those who believe in what they’re selling to the point that they’re not selling anything; they’re simply talking about what they know to be true. It’s exactly the same with the Gospel. If you haven’t experienced Jesus for yourself, you can’t authentically witness for Him. You can try, but it’s going to come off sounding canned. What a difference it makes when you share from the depths of your soul what Jesus means to you.
You are a perfect candidate for God to use to accomplish His purpose!
God bless,
Calven
What a wonderful word Ps. Calven. Truly blessed me. Have a wonderful day.