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Modern culture is consumed by self-branding and self-promotion. It feels like a necessary evil of life in the current age, but what if the exact opposite may be essential for God to move? In this episode, Gary Wilkerson and Joshua West discuss when it’s appropriate to be known for our godly work and when our insidious desire for glorifying ourselves gets in the way. Gary and Joshua explore how we can discern what is in our own hearts when we’re recognized for the good we do in the world.
Key Points from the Podcast
• The Asbury revival seemed to be driven by a group of young people’s desire for God to move and not some famous church leader. Many of the younger generation are turning away from man-centered religion that feels artificial.
• The reality of who Christ is, taking away all of the traditions and filters we’ve placed on him, will be the truth that reaches the next generation.
• If believers honestly want to see a great revival, we have to frankly testify to the truth of the gospel and pray, and then we have to get out of God’s way when he moves.
• One of the aspects of men like Billy Graham or David Wilkerson was that neither one promoted himself in order to be famous or respected. Both men simply wanted to preach the gospel and see God move and save people. They had very little attachment to how they were viewed or remembered by the public.
• Jesus modeled following God’s will when it took him to the poor and shunned, the zealots and tax-collectors. He associated with the wealthy and religious leaders, but he didn’t pursue connections with them that would’ve certainly given him status or privileges.
• Believers must all be on guard against starting to place their value on others’ perception of us. If we’re doing anything so that people will speak well of us, we’re in dangerous territory spiritually.
Bible Verses Referenced in the Podcast
1 Corinthians 1:11-19, Luke 6:26, Judges 7:1-3, 1 Samuel 17:32-37, 1 Kings 18:36-40
Episodes in this Podcast Series
About Joshua West
Joshua West serves as the Church Leadership Network Director at World Challenge helping equip and empower pastors all over the world. Joshua’s desire is to raise up ministers who will correctly and boldly preach the word with passion and integrity. The point of all his work and writings is to preach the gospel, glorify God and to teach sound doctrine.