Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands

Tonight a new book study begins! The book that we are studying this session is "Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands" by Paul David Tripp. This is a book that I have been "currently reading" for some time now!! For over a year I have wanted to do this study with our church. Tripp deals with some fundamental issues for why we are the way we are and how we can change. He then takes it one step further in helping us see that we are supposed to be "instruments" in God's hands to help others change as well. This is how sanctification takes place within the life of the body of Christ. It is not up to trained professionals to "counsel" and "fix our problems". God's plan is that the whole body of Christ ministers to each other so that we all mature in Christ. Listen to Ephesians 6 on this subject:

'Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.'

This passage speaks to everyone of us and asks us to be equipped and ready to help a brother or sister when they are in need of spiritual restoration. While doing so, we are to keep in mind that we too at times will need this same care and concern from others. Just because we are not currently "caught in a transgression" does not mean we never have been or that we will not be again in the future. Who better to minister and care for a sinner under guilt and shame than another sinner who has been there before. We are called to bear one another's burdens which is the supreme imitation of Christ our Lord, the ultimate burden bearer!

So, now that you know that you are called to do this, please take seriously the opportunity provided to you to learn and grow in this responsibility. In his book, Tripp helps us with basic skills so that we can better minister to each other and therefore fulfill our responsibilities. Unfortunately, most members of local churches lack the confidence to "counsel" and "care" for others within the body of Christ. My hope and prayer is that God will use this study to equip us to restore one another.

Here is one of my favorite quotes from one of the opening chapters:

“The good news of the kingdom is not freedom from hardship, suffering, and loss. It is the news of a Redeemer who has come to rescue me from myself. His rescue produces change that fundamentally alters my response to these inescapable realities. The Redeemer turns rebels into disciples, fools into humble listeners. He makes cripples walk again. In him we can face life and respond with faith, love, and hope. And as he changes us, he allows us to be a part of what he is doing in the lives of others. As you respond to the Redeemer’s work in your life, you can learn to be an instrument in his hands.”

- Paul David Tripp, Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands

Book Study Times:
Wednesday @ 6:30 pm - led by Pastor Ron Starcher
Thursday @ 10:00 am - led by Pastor Jerry Croyts