All the World is my Parish

 John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement, was fond of stating that "all the world is my parish."  He believed that we have a responsibility to people both inside and outside of the local church, to preach and teach the Gospel message.  Keep it simple, keep it relevant, and keep it faithful.  The societies Wesley founded as a revival movement within the Church of England eventually became the dominant form of the independent Methodist movement that continues to this day.  His reach continues to help people and make disciples even as we speak.  

 

Setting aside the schism that has formed inside of the current Methodist conference regarding same sex marriage for the moment, I believe that Wesley's original work is of innumerable value today.  He has also been quoted as telling people that we must deliver the "glad tidings of salvation" as well, to any and all who would listen.  In other words, the modern church must stand for something, and then in like fashion, make sure what we stand for is heard by all who are willing to comprehend.

So what do we stand for as a church?  This question can be answered in a multitude of ways, but I want to be certain that as a group of people, we show the love of Christ first and foremost.  Although different ministers and parishioners garner a wide variety of opinions as to what this looks like - I think we can begin with some Scripture to help clarify.

Ephesians 3:6 says, "This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."  Those not of Jewish descent are thus included in what the apostle Paul calls the promise of Christ.  Tradition holds that Paul penned this letter from prison, no doubt under more than a bit of duress.  He wanted desperately to fulfill his mission by making sure that the Gentiles (the rest of us) knew that we were also loved by God just like Israel.  We have become accustomed to this truth today, but back then many thought it was a form of heresy.  

I believe one large aspect of Christ's love is simply to share the message that he died for.  Make sure the rest of the world knows his words and understands what they mean.  Isaiah 12:4 encourages us as such: "In that day you will say: 'give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name, make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.'"  

Psalm 105:1 further says, "Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name, make known among the nations what he has done."  It seems in no small way, we are to proclaim what God has done in the Bible and in our everyday lives.  Fortunately for us, I do not believe this necessarily means we must stake out a street corner and begin open-air preaching.  But it does mean that Christianity isn't a silent faith either.  It makes noise, moves around, and stirs things up sometimes.

Mature Christians who have been at this for a while also understand it can lead to persecution occasionally.  If we are lucky enough to live in America, then maybe this means we get made fun of from time to time.  If we live in other countries, it can literally mean life or death.  At any rate, understand that this comes with the territory.  2 Timothy 3:12 says, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."  This is less of a warning than a truism; just keep it in the back of your mind while evangelizing.  Sometimes you will be treated unfairly.  

I suppose my advice is fairly simple.  If we want to adhere to Wesley's statement that all the world is my parish, then we must get busy proclaiming the love of Christ to those in the world.  For some this might mean speaking or formal teaching, yet for others it might simply mean a kind gesture or a well placed invitation to church on Sunday morning.  Whatever God is giving you to do, then pray over it, keep watch for the right opportunity, and then proclaim it.

If Jesus really does hold the keys to eternal salvation, then what a shame if we keep those keys to ourselves.  Instead, take them to the hardware store and make copies to be handed out as opportunities arise.  If there is a door to heaven, then help people walk through it.  Remember God loves them also.

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