My good buddy Simon (a.k.a. Lay Guy) and I just spent 9 hours in the car, each way, to spend an amazing evening at the Sydney Entertainment Centre with Pastor Mark Driscoll from Mars Hill Church in Seattle, USA. I have been blessed by his ministry over the past 2 years in a way that has literally changed the way I see Jesus, His Church and my calling to serve Jesus in ministry as pastor of CityWest Church.
It was very encouraging to see massive crowds of young and old people unite together as the stadium was filled to a capacity of 10,000 people. The whole night was centred around the theme “Burn Your Plastic Jesus” as Driscoll in his unique way preached a message that broke down the stereo-typical mindsets of who Jesus is. We heard him correct the false pictures of the Religious Jesus, the Bling-Bling Jesus, the Moral Jesus, the Aussie Jesus, the Country Jesus, and a few more.
What really impressed me was the way he read the Australian culture and applied these findings into his sermon to give us a very relevant message. The statistics, the perspectives, our way of life was confronted and we were all challenged to see Jesus in His true light and live sold out to Him and His mission. What also moved me was Driscoll’s commitment to reach the young men for Jesus. He spent some focussed time calling them to a higher way of life and to even consider their part in church planting for the spread of the gospel. Love that stuff!
After the event was done we exited our section and saw Driscoll right in front of us in the foyer meeting and praying with people. We were able to thank him personally for all that he has done for us and had a photo taken with him (see above). What was amazing is how after preaching for over 1 hour he still gave of himself to speak to hundreds of people and pray for those that needed it.
After staying for awhile he was still there meeting with people and who knows how long this went for? It has been a long, long time since I have been empowered like this and having been to many conferences this one stands out as one of the best. My faith was strengthened, my call was confirmed, my devotion was challenged and my focus renewed. While I never want to attribute celebrity status to a man or elevate him as an idol, I do greatly appreciate all that Jesus is doing through Mark Driscoll and I look forward to many more teachings that empower the Church of Jesus to rise up and serve God on mission.
Mark was also saying that in 18-24 months he intends to return with the intention of conducting an Acts 29 boot camp to train and equip church planters in Australia and hopefully we can connect with him then. It is encouraging to see the church in Australia move towards a more missional mindset and go back to a more Reformed view on theology. To see so many young people attach themselves to this gives me great joy and hope for what is ahead.
So, we move foward with the gospel of Jesus to tell the world about the real Jesus and not the plastic version that is so unattractive and comical to this world. I encourage you to review the way you see Jesus and make sure your perspective lines up with the way the Bible describes Him. For a great picture be sure to read Revelation 19 and have your views revived to see the power of King Jesus!
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