Proven Character? Are we believable?
Before a warrior can go out to battle, he must first prepare himself. The proper techniques of warfare must be learned. A warrior must learn how to use his various weapons to their greatest potential. (Warfare training)
Since the weapons a warrior takes into battle are vital to the outcome of the battle, he must not allow his weapons to become ineffective through a lack of character.
Character development is a very big part of being a practicing disciple of Jesus Christ. The character needs to be in the mix.
Jesus said, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation.” Mark 16:15
However, it would be wise to develop His character qualities to some level of maturity. Why? So, we can be believable.
I believe we must first be practicing disciples to make disciples. Therefore Matthew 28:18-20 comes before Mark 16:15-18.
Matthew 28:18-20
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
Mark 16:15-18
And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."
Romans 5:3-5
And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Other resources to consider.
Click here. Character development!
Click here. What comes out when we are under pressure?
Click here. Prayer focus “Become believable_Be that one piece of the puzzle”