The fallout from the
fall (Genesis 3:1-7), includes four alienations (four breaches of
peace). They are the alienation of man from God, the alienation of
man from man, the alienation of man from himself, and the alienation
of man from the created order. The alienation of man from God
manifested itself in hiding, in Adam’s case he hid among the trees
of the garden (verse 8). Silly really, no one can hide himself from
God (Jeremiah 23:24). The manifestation of man's alienation from man
started with Adam blaming both the woman and God, for his sin (verse
12) and progressed from there. The alienation of man from himself
manifests itself in the whole variety of physical, mental, emotional
and spiritual problems that, at some level, we all have. The
manifestation of the alienation man from the created order is the
reality that ground brings forth both thorns and thistles, and in the
blood sweat and tears of our struggles (verses 17,18). Salvation
history documents the work God has wrought to accomplish
reconciliation in all four of these alienations. And what I am
calling holistic, Biblical discipleship is about us learning to do our part in
cooperating with God in His primary purpose which is redemption in these four areas (Ephesians 1:10; Romans 8:19).
John Arnott describes
this as being inward, upward and outward journeys. I think of the
inward and upward components as being represented by the vertical
beam of the cross. Taken together they comprise our relationship with
God and with ourselves. The horizontal cross piece, represents our
relationship with others, discipling each other, and the nations, in
the stewardship of God. Discipleship of the Christian is most
effective when he is abiding at the foot of the cross, in humble
appreciation of all that the cross accomplished for us, and in us.
Paradoxically when we abide there, we are in a real sense seated with
Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). It is from this place of
security, that the Lord sends us out to disciple first our individual
Jerusalems, then our Judeas, our Samarias and ultimately the
uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8).
Whether we know it or
not, whether we are in Chris or not, one way or another, we are
variously seeking these reconciliations. Secular Psychology is
essentially seeking to reconcile man with himself, but without the
help and healing we get in partnership with God. Much of it, without
it being realized is based on Biblical principles given thousands of
years earlier! Many twelve step programs speak of a higher power, but
if it's not Christ, it will not produce fullness of life (John
19:10). Likewise we expect fullness of life if we do not do the hard
work of this reconciliation. It's called inner healing! Much of the
church is either ignorant of it, or dismissive of it. What I am
saying, is that if this aspect of reconciliation is not incorporated
into discipleship, then it's not utilizing the whole council of God
(Acts 20:27), and it's not what I am calling holistic discipleship!
Father, only You
understand why the church is so resistant to tapping into all that
You did in sending sent Jesus to heal the broken hearted, and to set
the captives fee (Luke 4:18). But it's hard work Lord, so please help
us to enter into it, or to enter more fully. I'm not willing to
settle for anything less than the fullness of life You call us to.
It's a process Lord, so please continue Your work in us, in Jesus
Name Amen
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