Monday is for Discussion
The following introduction and quote are from the Wikipedia entry on Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones. The questions are mine.
Once, while unfolding to his congregation the internal work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian, Lloyd-Jones marveled at his experience in preaching.
I say it again to the glory of God, this pulpit is the most romantic place in the universe as far as I’m concerned, and for this reason, that I never know what’s going to happen when I get here. Never. My anticipations are often falsified on both sides. This is wonderful. The temptation for the preacher, you see, is to think that if he has prepared what he regards as a good sermon, it’s going to be a wonderful service, and it sometimes can be a very bad one. On the other hand, the poor man may have had a very difficult and a trying week. He may have been very ill, a thousand and one things may have happened to him, and he may go into the pulpit with fear and trembling, feeling that he hasn’t done his work; he’s got nothing. And it may be one of the most glorious services he has ever had the privilege of conducting. Why? Because he doesn’t control the power within [of the Holy Spirit]. It varies. And not only in preaching but in daily life and experience. It is the well of water that is within us and we don’t control it. It controls us.
Questions:
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If a pastor always gets “expected” results, is he in danger of doing ministry apart from the power of the Spirit?
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If yes, how does he avoid this tragedy?
ChosenRebel's Blog 
Marty- In my 30 minutes of checking out your blog, I just want to let you know that you Rock! I have found it difficult to find authentic Christ-followers and it is always refreshing to see the real deal! You are awesome because of your reckless pursuit of God 🙂 I lock arms with you in spiritual battle for authentic continual surrender to Jesus. I pray anointing, blessing and intimacy with God to be yours while your visiting in your fleshly vessel. I declare Hab 1:5 to be yours in 2014! Amen.
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Thanks for the encouragement brother. May your tribe increase in 2014. Pass it on to your friends.
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Al,
Just returned to this post this week and needed not only its encouragement for my weary soul but also your encouragement. Thanks again, and keep praying for revival.
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