Thought of the Day 07.07.08

Objectives determine methods. It’s a simple concept and an obvious one. Consider relationships. A man approaching a woman for romance might have a wide range of goals in mind. He could be interested in a one night fling, a casual relationship, a steady girlfriend, a spouse, a mother for his children, or, if he’s really wise, a woman to celebrate a 50 year anniversary with.

Well, naturally his purpose will (or at least should) influence his tactics. Many techniques which would help him score today would actually prevent a lifelong marriage and vice versa. The same is true of evangelism. If our goal is to have one-night conversions, we might do things one way. But if our goal, based on the Bible (Matthew 28:19), is to have lifelong disciples, these same methods might actually be harmful.

So the real question is: Are we aiming for the immediate gratification of humans or are we aiming for the eternal glorification of God? Let me reiterate. Objectives determine methods.