Dear Logos Family,
“In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:1-3 (NIV)
On Sunday we will install Dennis Yim as our new Associate Pastor for Youth and Outreach. Pastor Larry Jung will preach Dennis’ installation sermon. I will give the charge to Dennis and the congregation, and members of session and other Ruling Elders from Presbytery will participate.
Paul does not mince words when he charges young Timothy to “Preach the Word.” This charge is given in the “presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead…” This is an ominous statement. This is a reminder to Timothy that Jesus will return as the Judge.
We usually think of Jesus as “Savior” or “Redeemer” which He is. But when Jesus returns, he will return as the “judge of the living and the dead.” How are those who do not know who Jesus is going to find out unless someone tells them? (Romans 10:14-15)
The responsibility to share the good news falls on all believers. But the man or woman of God who is called to “preach the Word in season and out season” bears a lion’s share of that responsibility because most believers bring unbelievers to church services or revival services to hear the gospel and be given an opportunity to accept Jesus as Savior.
Today in America we live in a world more like the first century than 1950 when it comes to peoples’ familiarity and openness to the gospel. I hope you will remember that in the days ahead as Dennis assumes his role as the pastor of our youth and the one who is playing a major role in helping us start a new service.
Preaching to this generation is a very daunting assignment. There are issues that this generation is confronted with that the rest of us have not had to deal with before.
Dennis and his wife Christy, their two-year old daughter Karis and one to be named soon need all of our prayers and encouragement as they seek to follow the Lord’s call to pastor Logos Presbyterian. Our job is to come alongside Dennis to participate in the ministry of the gospel with whatever gifts, abilities and resources the Lord has given us. Working together God will accomplish more than what we ask or imagine! (Eph 3:20)
Grace and peace,
Pastor Bill