2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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A TRIUMPHANT MINISTRY
MONDAY, JANUARY 13
2 Corinthians 2:14-17
Matthew 25:31-46
“God, which always causeth
us to triumph in Christ.”
A TRIUMPHANT MINISTRY
The term “triumph” (2 Cor 2:14) invokes the picture of a Roman victory procession when a general returns from war with his army. Christ here is the Commander-in-Chief who leads the missionary team of Paul and his associates unto victory. With Christ as the Leader in their labours, they will not fail!
It is also common in the triumph procession for garlands of flowers to be placed along the route. This is accompanied by the burning of incense and spices. This fragrance would then spread so that people from afar could also smell the aroma.
The preaching of the gospel of Paul and his associates is thus likened to this fragrance. Wherever they went, the savour of the gospel would accompany them. “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Rom 10:15b). However, not everyone will find the aroma of the “triumph” palatable. For those who are on the victor’s side, the aroma is understandably sweet. On the other hand, the prisoners-of-war who are due to be executed will find the aroma to be a “scent of death.” Similarly, there will always be two reactions to the preaching of the gospel. Those who are saved are those who received the gospel in faith. For such, the gospel fragrance is truly sweet. However, those that reject the gospel will perish. To them, the gospel is but the odour of death. Which group are you in? Make sure you are in the right parade.
The success of a preaching ministry is thus judged by how faithful a man is to the Word of God. There are many false workers who “corrupt” God’s Word. This term has the sense of engaging in shady business with greedy intentions. These are “preachers” who only “preach” for their bellies. “Less pay, less preach! No pay, no preach!” Not so, the Apostle Paul, who is true and sincere in the ministry of the Christ. This is how one may have a triumphant ministry in Christ.
THOUGHT: How do we measure the success of a church ministry?
PRAYER: Father, help me to triumph in Christ Jesus.