Jun 1986 - Editorial

Twelve men on a mountainside in Galilee, able to survey all points of the compass; and from the lips of one of them words that were to turn upside down the world they looked out on. "All authority hath been given unto Me in heaven and on earth. Go... make disciples ... teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you..." The making of disciples of such a Master has been the noblest enterprise of man since that day, and many exemplary disciple-makers have graced the pages of Christian history - none with greater distinction than the stalwart apostle of the gentiles who earnestly summarized his ambitions and methods to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20. Serving... lowliness of mind... tears... trials... coveting no man's silver or gold ... holding life itself not of any account as dear to himself.

Of course, there is no reason to suggest that Paul would not approve the judicious use today of available technology in declaring the whole counsel of God. After all he ably exploited the channels of communication available in his day as provided by the Roman empire. But the principles of Acts 20 will always lie at the very heart of disciple-making, as FOCUS makes plain in the magazine this month. Thus our main series article on discipleship is appropriately complemented, and challenges anew both the quality of our commitment to our all-authoritative Master, and our historical appreciation of all who have followed faithfully in the train of the eleven self-renouncing men of the Galilean mountain. The truth "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35) - stands unchanged.

unknown | Jun 1986
Editorial