Words from the D-Now in Troy, Illnois

First, I would like to thank the folks from Bethel Baptist Church for having us this weekend for the Disciple Now conference. It was an honor and a privilege for us to be a part of such a time in the life of your students.

From hearing the testimony of some of the students and the workers, it appears that the Lord is working mightily in your lives and it is our prayer that this work would continue to produce fruit for the glory of God!

One thought that I would like to leave, though I am sure that there is more that will follow...first, a look back at the passage found in Romans 12:1-2 (ESV)

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

I know that this was preached over and over again throughout the weekend, but I cannot get it out of my head. Do not be conformers to the pattern of the world! That seems to be a given...duh!!! However, I would like to quote Bro. Bob Schembre in his sermon to not conform to the ways of the church! This struck hard because when we are only conformers to the ways of the church, we are not transformed to the ways of Christ. Once you are truly transformed, then your outward living will change. Therefore I would like to mention two quick points.

1. For the person that might be reading this that does not know Christ. Trust in Him alone to save you. Do not waste your life trying harder to make yourself look good. Don't waste your time being a "good person" and think that this is going to help you "know God." It will only make you think that you are "ok" and in the end...it will cost you your very soul.
2. For the one that does now Christ. Constantly and consistently resist the temptation to conform to the thinking and the pattern of the world. Constantly be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Read and Study the Word of God. Turn off the television and read the Word of God! Here's a little rebuke for me...Aaron...stop worrying about the e-mail and read the Word!!! Stay in the Word and be transformed. More to follow...

For any Students that might read this...thank you for your time and dedication this weekend! It would be a great joy to have any testimonies posted as comments to the blog!

In all things...Christ preeminent!

Aaron