Ben Gray has written an excellent book that helps renovate our ideas of what church is and how we were designed to engage in society … Here is an apostolic vision that points the way to a more fruitful future by grounding us in a more faithful past. 
Ben Gray is a natural when it comes to breaking down biblical concepts and expressing their significance to the world today. His knowledge of the Word and depth of insight define his biblical worldview from which comes fresh revelation for the body of Christ. 
Ben Gray understands history and what the Spirit of God is saying to the church today. I believe he has identified the key to effectiveness for workplace leaders and church leaders in today’s changing world. His biblical approach to the holistic and Hebraic model of the priesthood of believers will eliminate dualism. 
The most important paradigm shift that church leadership can make in the 21st century is to grasp that the kingdom of God is the central theme of the New Testament, nothing else. Everything about us missionally and ecclesiologically comes from this reality. Ben Gray lays out this revolution as well as anyone I have read. 
| Opened Eyes |
|
Ever since I made a committed decision for the Lord I wanted ‘hands-on, coal face’ ministry. Church programs left me frustrated; feeling like a square peg in a round hole. Even the evangelistic programs left me feeling like I didn’t fit. I wanted to meet people where they were at and stay for the long haul. Many a time I have been asked by church people, ‘Are you still ministering to that person? You are wasting your time.’ There are ones I have walked a season with and never saw any fruit, but down the track, God has shown me how they have moved closer to Him. I was happy to be a ‘water-er’ in His garden. Vocations 4 Life opened my eyes - spiritually and naturally - to my vocational grace motivation of Pastor-Apostle. I now function in my work sphere with a freedom of spirit and purpose. I know that I know I am doing what the Lord would have me do because of the joy and peace - even in difficult times - that my vocation brings. I function in my work sphere overseeing a multi-denominational volunteer organisation, which provides the love of Christ through practical actions to the wider community who do not qualify for government or civic support. I have the favour of the local council and I relish every opportunity that God puts my way to do His will and proclaim His name. In consultation with Pastor Ben, he released the last lock, allowing me to come to the church gathering on Sunday with a guiltless, free spirit, no longer the ‘square peg’. His words were ‘you are using these gifts everyday. They are your tools of trade and you can bring whichever gifts you prefer and lay them at the feet of those in church work who are called to minister in the gathering. You know what the body needs and can prioritise with God how to use your gifts in the gathering. It’s your choice.’ Praise God! The Joy of the Lord is my Strength! Faye Murdock |