Luke 19:1-10, INITIATIVE vs. unresponsiveness (1)

1)    Definition: Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it.

2)    Scripture: Prov. 2:2-4; 19:2; Mt. 18:15; 28:19-20; Mk. 16:15; Rom. 8:37; 12:21; 2 Cor. 10:3-5; 1 Tim. 3:1; Heb. 6:1; 1 Jn. 3:17; 4:4; 5:4-5; Rev. 20:8.  Also, every “victorious experience” in the Bible where God used men.

3)    Underlying Principle: 1) God’s commands apply whether or not someone else asks us to obey.  2) Those who overcome in the Christian life m8ust make war (take the offensive) rather than just protect themselves (Rom. 12:21).

4)    Illustration: 1 Sam. 14:1-15.  Jonathan and his armor-bearer took the initiative to “go over to the Philistines garrison.” The result was a great victory for Israel.

5)    Bible Study:

a)    Reread the definition above and then from each passage below record an area of the Christian life where initiative is important.

i)      Heb. 6:1: This passage tells us to lay aside other things and do those things that are for our “perfection” (maturity, being the person God has in mind for us to be).

ii)   2 Cor. 10:3-5: We are to do what gains victory over wrong thoughts.  Do you see the point about “initiative?”  These are things that are non-negotiable.  We never wonder if this is what I should seek, and wait to be told to do so.  Maturing in Christ and taking control of our thought life requires initiative.

iii)            Prov. 2:2-4: The search for wisdom is essential.

iv) Matt. 28:19-20: The issue here is our one task from Christ, to make disciples of all nations.  We do need the leading of the Holy Spirit so that we speak at the right time to the person God puts in front of us.  But I am reminded of Paul, on the second missionary journey.  Remember how he set out in different directions to pursue making disciples, but was stopped by the Holy Spirit and then led to Philippi (Acts 16:6-10).

v)    Matt. 18:15: We should ask the Lord’s help in reproving a brother.  Don’t put it off; it must be done.  But do seek the Lord’s help and a good hearing.

1 Tim. 3:1: There is initiative in seeking the opportunity to provide leadership in the Body of Christ.  “If a man desires the position of a bishop.”  “If” means it is not necessarily for every man.  But “desires” suggests that one must be intentional about it.  He will need the confirmation of others in the Church but he should not be ashamed to take the initiative.