COSTLY VS CHEAP GRACE & DISCIPLESHIP

This week we discussed the topic of true grace and discipleship, the difference between cheap and costly grace.

The cheap being what the majority of the church believes is the "good news" and the costly which for many is not considered an attractive message.

Where does the church tend to go wrong when it concentrates on a watered down gospel to the exclusion of Lordship where we are called to share in His suffering and rejection for the sake of the gospel? Is it to fill seats and how is it fulfilling the commission of making disciples?

We agreed that in general many believers do not understand grace - if they did, they would be committed to Lordship because of commitment to Him and out of love for Him.
We agreed that discipleship and grace go hand in hand since without grace discipleship would be impossible - we are to learn from our mistakes and given a second chance facilitates the learning process.

Although His grace is a surety the church should not abuse it and because of it the church should respond to the grace that costs.

MAINTAINING A BALANCE BETWEEN MODALITY AND SODALITY

We met at 6pm at Midrand. 11 adults, 4 children. Alison facilitated. When in transition how do we balance the responsibilities we already have with our new kingdom responsibilities without going into a swing between modality and sodality. Prayer which should start becoming a growing and main focus in our family's lives. Studies on successful missionaries have shown that there was a strong focus on family prayer in their lives. We have to make time for kingdom activities in our lives. Failing to plan means planning to fail. Our families have to be included in all things from the start. Communication is important. We need freedom to be "in the process" of learning and we need to speak out when uncomfortable. Iron sharpens iron (encouraging one another, not breaking down). Obedience to the Lords leading and word are key (total Lordship). This must be a process that brings life. If this is not happening then this is a warning sign. Don't be insular. Input/Output groups. Teach, train and read Plan at least one missions trip or more for the year. Stay in a caravan in people, put shoulder to the wheel, world christian prayer life, telescope of vision. Sow finances.

We discussed each of the above things in depth. We broke for some tea and cake and to sing to Lucille as it was her birthday on the 25th of Jan. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LUCILLE!!!!!

WELCOME BACK JJ!!!!!

We got together earlier than usual at 2pm at Grant and Suzana's home for a braai to welcome JJ home. After the braai we gathered for fellowship and carried on late into the night. It was wonderful to see JJ again. He was only home one week and gave a wonderful presentation on his travels in India. It almost felt like we were there with him. He told us about lessons that he had learned on the journey, lessons he learned from Gotam and lessons he learned from Swaamiji. If you missed it, please give him a call and ask him to share with you. Some other things we touched on were deliverance in a cross cultural setting and the insider movement.