Redeemer Network Podcast Session 3 | 2023 Conference
Oct 30, 2024
Ross Lester, a campus pastor at The Austin Stone Community Church, shares his insights on church mission and identity. He emphasizes the importance of being outward-facing, warning against insularity. Through discussing holiness and grace, Ross explains that all believers—not just clergy—are called to proclaim God's excellencies. He also details practical strategies for equipping every member to live as ambassadors of Christ in various spheres of influence. His passionate closing urges leaders to model mission personally and grow in grace.
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Game Reserve Ranger Story
- Ross Lester describes passing a ranger's test and tracking elephants and rhinos without firearms to illustrate careful timing and dependence on God's sovereignty.
- He contrasts that dangerous tracking with the joy of dove hunting to show different risk and reward postures.
Hope Shapes Exiled Communities
- Churches are 'outposts of elect exiles' shaped by enduring hope rooted in Christ's resurrection.
- This hope allows Christians to suffer patiently and live confidently amid cultural pressures.
Grace Enables Lasting Holiness
- Holiness in the church must be fueled by grace so it endures beyond legalistic performance.
- Accurate identity and vision of God's majesty drive genuine pursuit of righteousness.