“Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.”
1 Timothy 5:22
When I first met the man who started Denton Bible Church, I really didn’t know what to think. He was unassuming. He wasn’t loud. He didn’t glad-hand. As I watched him get ready to share his testimony at a men’s Bible study, I did notice a few things…
- He had a gentleness about him.
- He had a strength that was manifested in his firm and upright posture.
- He had intelligent eyes.
Over the years, as I’ve been around Mel Sumrall, I’ve grown as a pastor, as a man, and as a disciple of Christ. I’ve also been the recipient of some pretty good Mel stories as well. One stands out, and it’s the start of a three-part series entitled–See. Know. Trust.
SEE
There was a young college student who came up to Denton Bible Church, found his way to Mel Sumrall in the missions department, and expressed a desire to serve as a missionary to China. At this point, Mel had transitioned out of the senior pastor role of DBC, and was now helping to launch Denton Bible’s mission’s department. This young man did not lack in zeal, he did not lack in enthusiasm, and he certainly didn’t lack in faith. What would Mel say to him?
The story went something like this: Mel simply asked him, “You’re a college student here at North Texas, right? Yes. Are there Chinese students here? Yes. Are you ministering to them right now? No.” End of conversation.
Mel’s questions simply brought to light a reality that begs all of our attention. Mel simply challenged passion without intention. Youth brings ideals, and time brings depth [that when coupled with ideals brings change]. How many good intentions have been buried in the soil of intention-less passion?
How Does This Apply To Us Today?
- Remember that passion is from God and is good.
- Couple intentional experience with the vein of passion to determine direction.
- Surround yourself with counselors who are not “yes-men”.
Before trust, one has to be known, and before being known, one has to be seen.
Next time, we’ll examine what it means to be known in the context of responsibility.
— May 22, 2020