Can Rich Young Rulers Be Cross-Carrying Messengers? Webinar on Thursday

This Thursday (April 24), I have been asked to conduct a webinar with the Mission Exchange on how a theology of persecution and discipleship should find practical expression in ministry.  Entitled Ministry in the Shadow of the Cross: Exploring a Theology of Suffering, this webinar asks, "Can Rich Young Rulers Be Cross-Carrying Messengers?"  Recollecting that Jesus calls his followers to take up a cross, a symbol of suffering, shame, and death, I believe that a cross-centered gospel requires cross-centered messengers. However, the comparative wealth of the Western Christian puts him in the position of the rich young ruler. With the best of intentions, the rich young ruler sent cross-culturally often creates disciples more akin to himself than to the cross-bearing Saviour. Sincere calls for sacrificial service sound disingenuous to the national church. So what is to be done? Is there a step forward?

I am hoping that this seminar will provide a starting point for dialog toward solutions. Beginning with an overview of a biblical theology of discipleship and its costs, we will explore the following questions:

• What is the call of the cross in Scripture?

• How can those from the affluent West more realistically and effectively reflect a cross- centered approach to mission?

• How can we better train rich young rulers to be cross-carrying followers?

To find out more about time, cost and how to register, click here.