Matthew 3:1 (KJV) Where, When and With Whom He Pleases

Matthew 3:1 (KJV)
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,

Isn’t it interesting that the first gospel preaching began, not in the city but in the wilderness? This is not to say gospel preaching must be in a rural venue. Paul preached in Ephesus and used that as a foundation for ministries into the smaller cities and rural communities around it.

I think the point is that God is at liberty to work where, when and with whom He pleases.

I heard a historian speak on the development of Evangelical Christianity in America the other day[1]. She pointed out that Christianity has repositioned itself from the inner cities of America to the suburbs. This historian did not see this as a negative about Christianity but as a demonstration of Bible believing Christianity to remake itself in order to reach people. I have witnessed a less generous interpretation of this same movement by those within the faith. They accuse those Christians who move away from the cities as abandoning the places where the gospel is most needed and may do the most good.

I call for a more balanced position. Let’s recognize that God can do His work whether by many or few. He has a unique call upon each of us.

• Some surely ought to penetrate into the heart of America’s inner cities. 
• Others will find that their call to smaller communities in rural settings is equally valuable to Christ.

To my readers:
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Matthew 3:1 (KJV) Where, When and With Whom He Pleases

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[1] http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/patrick-wyman/history-matters/e/8-southern-california-the-religious-right-interview-with-49856360