POST #1:THE CHRISTIAN REVOLUTION

An excerpt from the book

REVOLUTION
by George Barna

COUNT THE COST
PAGE 16

Revolutionaries invariably turn to God’s Word-the Bible-for their guidance. In that vein, I encourage you to take heed of Jesus’ admonition to His followers always to “count the cost” of choices you make, especially the choice to be a full-on, no-holds-barred follower of His.

Know this: just as the prophets of old were unwelcome in their own hometown, so are Revolutionaries looked at askance by even their closest friends and family members. The skepticism of those who lead conventional spiritual lives is a palpable reminder that growth always comes with a price tag.

Be forewarned: just as Jesus Christ, the ultimate lover of humanity, was scorned, misunderstood, persecuted, and eventually murdered for His extreme love, goodness, compassion, humility, wisdom, and grace, so are Revolutionaries abused by a culture that is itself in crisis. The mere presence of Revolutionaries makes the typical American citizen-yes, even the typical churchgoer-uncomfortable. It is not uncommon for Revolutionaries to meet with rejection-verbal, intellectual, relational, or experiential-simply because of their determination to honor the God they love.

You have probably heard about the “culture war” that rages in the United States today. Perhaps the most significant battle in that war will be waged by the Revolutionaries. They are entrenched at ground zero in the test of wills and worldviews that is shaking our nation. Like their role model, Jesus Christ, they ignite fierce resistance merely by being present and holy.  It is perhaps that holy presence that will get Revolutionaries in the deepest trouble they will face-and that will bring lasting healing to a culture that has rebelled for too long against its loving Creator. These Christian zealots are radically reshaping both American society and the Christian Church. Their legacy is likely to be a spiritual reformation of unprecedented proportions in the United States, and perhaps the world.

Are you a Revolutionary? Is someone in your family or your circle of friends a Revolutionary? Would you like to be a Revolutionary–someone who lives only to love, obey, and serve God, rejecting and overcoming every obstacle that emerges to prevent such a life?

Perhaps you, too, have the makings of a spiritual Revolutionary-and the desire to participate in this moment of profound change.  COUNT THE COST!

WATCHWOMAN’S WORDS – This short excerpt from George Barna’s book is the first installment in a series of posts I shall make about “The Christian Revolution” that is taking place.  Men of the cloth are waking up to the truth.  People in the pews are waking up.  I’ve been invited to be a blogger here.  There is a Christian Revolution happening.  It’s quiet.  The vast majority of people don’t even know it’s happening, but it is.  It is not a Revolution with guns, but is taking place with the Sword.  The Sword is the Word of God. ▬ Donna Calvin

GOD’S WORD – Hebrews 4:12 KJV[12]  For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Please refer to my other post entitled “Why does the world hate Christians?” (June 3, 2011) – http://blog.beliefnet.com/watchwomanonthewall/?p=2705