October 8th, 2024
Be Fruitful and Multiply
Beloved Kinney,
As we’ve been making our way through the book of Genesis, a common theme as emerged: God commands humanity to “be fruitful and multiply.” God’s design was for his perfect image to spread across the face of the earth so that the glory of God covers the earth as the waters cover the sea (Isaiah 11:9; Habakkuk 2:14). But then sin happened (Genesis 3)! Now, as God’s image bearers reproduce, a distorted image of God multiplies.
It's fascinating that the same language (“be fruitful and multiply”) is used in the New Testament to describe the spread of the gospel. “Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing.” (Colossians 1:5-6) “The word of God increased and multiplied.” (Acts 12:24)
Our responsibility in light of the fall is not merely to “be fruitful and multiply” in physical offspring. Our responsibility is to “be fruitful and multiply” in spiritual offspring. Certainly, that begins in our homes with our children (for those with kids). But the good news is that we can all partake in this effort through evangelism.
It was a joy this past Sunday night to hear about the many gospel conversations members of our church have had over the last few weeks. We are seeking to “be fruitful and multiply”! Praise God!
Of course, fruitfulness and multiplication are ultimately in the hands of the Lord. We trust him for the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6). But let us continue to strive to be faithful to plant the seed of the word and pray God’s gives the growth of the gospel in the hearts of men and women.
Love,
Pastor Josh