God reminds us throughout the scriptures, both in word and through example that His thoughts are not our thoughts, and that our ways are not His ways (Isaiah 55:8). Furthermore, He reminds us that His ways and purposes are accomplished, not by human might or power, but by His Spirit (Zechariah 4:6). Paul made it clear to the believers in Corinth that God uses ordinary vessels to accomplish His eternal purposes so “that no flesh should glory in His presence” (I Corinthians 1:29). As we’ll see in 1 Kings chapter 17, our extraordinary God is in the business of working in and through ordinary people to accomplish His divine purposes…for our blessing and His glory.
SERMON MANUSCRIPT
Lew is a retired career pastor and professor with a long-time connection to Oakridge, who currently resides with his wife, Marguerite, in London, Ontario. Lew did his undergraduate studies at Moody Bible Institute and Houghton College and his graduate studies at Cornell, Lehigh, and New York Universities. His career has taken him in both the educational and pastoral realm, having served as Dean of the New York School of the Bible, Chairman of the Philosophy Department of the King’s College, Chairman of the Pastoral Studies Department at Ontario Bible College. In addition, he has served as a faculty member at The International School of Theology in Budapest, Hungary; Linguistics University in, Moscow, Russia; and the Kazak American Free University, in Almaty, Kazakhstan. In recognition of his academic achievements and contribution to the educational process in Kazakhstan he was awarded the degree of Doctor and Professor. In addition, Lew was a founder and the director of the Central Asia Leadership Training Centre in Almaty, Kazakhstan. He was also a founder and faculty member of the Centre for Advanced Theological Studies in Moscow, Russia. He continues some of his work overseas serving as Leadership Consultant for the Brethren Churches of Romania, and he also continues in a teaching and consulting role in several Eastern European countries. Presently, Lew helps churches that are in transition.