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THE MINISTRY’S CONTRADICTION
LORD’S DAY, FEBRUARY 9
2 Corinthians 6:3-10
2 Timothy 3:12
 
“By honour and dishonour,
by evil report and good report.”
 
THE MINISTRY’S CONTRADICTION
 
As stated in our earlier devotions, the faithful pastor can easily find himself to be the most loved and yet most hated person in the community. This seeming contradiction is beautifully captured by Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:8-10.
 
Verse 8: “By honour and dishonour …” – The godly would honour those whom the Lord has set as faithful overseers in their lives, for that reflects the high regard they have for the Word of God. On the other hand, the ungodly would dishonour faithful pastors, for they have no regard for the Word of God. Similarly, those who appreciate Paul’s ministry would praise God for the blessings they have received through Paul. On the other hand, the opponents hated the ministry of Paul so much they gave an evil report of Paul, accusing him of lies, even when he had been truthful in all manner of speech and conduct.
 
Verse 9: “As unknown, and yet well known …” – There are times when Paul seemed to be the most despised among men, and yet he was wellknown. There were also times when his life seemed to be in danger, and yet each time the Lord preserved his life.
 
Verse 10: “As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing …” – There are many things that can cause a pastor’s heart to sorrow. In the case of the Corinthian church, Paul often had to handle the disappointment of the believers turning towards carnality rather than spiritual things. Yet at the same time, when men turn to the truth, the heart of Paul rejoiced. There is also the great joy of knowing that Christ will not forsake those who are His own. Therefore, though Paul at times found himself poor in the eyes of the world, yet he praised the Lord for how he had his all-sufficiency in Christ. Christ used this “poor” man to provide spiritual things to others so that they may be spiritually “rich.” How wonderful is the working of our Lord!
 
THOUGHT: It is the Master’s commendation that matters.
PRAYER: Father, teach me how to handle the challenges of the ministry.

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