[God] may direct some to leave their homeland to go to proclaim the Gospel in a foreign land. There is a great temptation in such circumstances for people to revert to the legalism of thinking that they are being heroes for God because they are leaving their homeland to endure the rigors of living in a foreign land. Those who are directed to do hard jobs for God must remind themselves that these rigors are simply for their health. As these difficulties help them become more like Christ, they will sing a song of praise unto God, and as a result “many will see it and fear and put their trust in the Lord” (Psm. 40:3). People who regard themselves as invalids rather than heroes will make excellent missionaries.
— Daniel Fuller (1925–2023), Theologe, Professor für Hermeneutik und Dekan am Fuller Theological Seminary
Related Bible passage: PSA.40.4
Topics: Witness & Mission, Humility & Pride, Work & Vocation
Occasions: For Reflection
Daniel Fuller
Daniel Fuller (1925–2023) war ein US-amerikanischer evangelikaler Theologe und wirkte über vier Jahrzehnte als Professor für Hermeneutik und Dekan am Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena. Er entwickelte Methoden zur grammatischen Diskursanalyse biblischer Texte und betonte die Kontinuität beider Testamente, stieß jedoch mit seinen Thesen zur Irrtumslosigkeit der Schrift und zum Verhältnis von Glaube und Gehorsam auf scharfe Kritik konservativer Theologen. Für heutige Bibelleser ist er vor allem durch seinen hermeneutischen Ansatz bedeutsam, der namhafte Prediger und Ausleger wie John Piper nachhaltig prägte.
All quotes by Daniel Fuller (20)
Mother Teresa
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
What is an evangelist? It is one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread.
Adrian Rogers
Carl F.H. Henry
Live what you have grasped of the Gospel, however little it may be.
Brother Roger
Whoever is full of joy preaches without preaching.
Mother Teresa
We Christians are the light of the world. Maybe only 40 watts. But 40 watts light up the room.
Otto Wassermann
Just as a candle is lit from the flame of another, so faith is kindled by faith.
Romano Guardini