“The Heart of a Pioneer” (Part 1)

2 Corinthians 5:10-21

It takes a special kind of person to be a pioneer. To, as Star Trek’s Captain Kirk used to say, “boldly go where no man has gone before” requires a special heart and mind—a heart and mind of faith and boldness. This is what drove Paul to say in Romans 15:20:

“And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man’s foundation…”

That is the heart of a pioneer—to be willing to do the hard work of blazing the trail. To do the dangerous work of walking point. To do the challenging work of leading the way.

In many ways, we who serve Christ’s church are blessed to be able to stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us—men and women who blazed a new trail in ministry and impacted their generation for Christ. Now, especially in the international realm, new trails are being blazed—and needing to be blazed. New doors are being opened. The heart of the pioneer may be as vital today as it was 2000 years ago. What could we say are necessary qualities of a wise pioneer for the Gospel? I think Paul may have hinted at them in 2 Corinthians 5:10-21, and we will see them this week…

A Pioneer Must Be Serious (vv.10-11)

Serious Because We Are Accountable (v.10)

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.”

Serious Because Eternity Awaits (v.11)

“Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.”

We need to recognize that we are about a serious business… and need to take it seriously. We’ll pick up here tomorrow.

One Response to ““The Heart of a Pioneer” (Part 1)”

1. pegramsdell says:

   November 16, 2009 at 11:16 am

   Yes, it’s easy to get too comfy with my life. I need reminding that I should be about “my Father’s business”. Thanks.