Assumption 1

Basic Assumption #1: Jesus Set an Example All Christians Should Follow

During His earthly ministry, Jesus modeled a lifestyle of communion with our heavenly Father from which He derived His identity, purpose and specific instructions for ministry. His relationship with His Father was so intimate and the time spent in communion was so preeminent that everything He did (John 5:19) and said (John 12:49) flowed out of those times with His Father.

This style of relationship with the heavenly Father is normative. Jesus prayed for all future disciples to have that same communion with the Father. He promised if we focus on union with Him (the vine - John 15) effective ministry (fruit) will result.

Unfortunately most committed Christians are part of churches which focus on doing ministry and producing fruit. The burden of “so much to do” to fulfill responsibilities and “keep the church going” distracts them from communion with our Lord.

This problem was first made clear in the biblical account of Jesus at the home of Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42). Martha was caught up in a flurry of ministry and was frustrated that Mary was listening to Jesus teach rather than helping her serve. But Jesus left no doubt that Mary had made the best possible choice.

What Jesus said about Mary’s choice is true for all Christians in all times. If we care about doing ministry and serving people (just like Martha) we must intentionally and paradoxically put ourselves in Mary’s place first.

This is very hard to do. Most things in life and in the church keep us busy and distracted. Time for communion with the Lord seems impossible to find. Most Christians need help:

to be convicted of their neglect of prayer and the Word of God
to be convinced that communion with the Lord is their most important engagement
to be inspired with the hope of effective and fruitful ministry that flows from communion with the Lord.

And they need protected time to seek God’s help in discovering practical steps for reorienting their life and permanently putting themselves in Mary’s place.

The ministry of Mary’s place is designed to offer that ideal opportunity.