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THE GRAVITY OF MINISTRY
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Acts 15:36-41

Luke 9:49-50

 

“Forbid him not: for he

that is not against us is for us.”

 

THE GRAVITY OF MINISTRY
 
Misunderstandings in the church are very common. Although we all have the mind of Christ, are indwelt by the same Holy Spirit and read the same Scriptures, our opinions still differ because we have different family backgrounds, cultures and habits of life. Even though we are guided infallibly and inerrantly, minor things can split companionship, fellowship and even churches. This may be sad, but the weakness of man prevails in many ways to cause divisions. Nevertheless, in divisions there is addition and even multiplications.
 
Determination: Paul encouraged Barnabas to visit the brethren in every city where they had established churches. This was a noble intention and must have been a prompting of the Spirit in order to strengthen the believers. Paul was determined to go “and see how they do” (Acts 15:36). This is the heart of a true missionary. He was not seeking his own fame and popularity or to make a name for himself. He wanted to know their spiritual estate. And Barnabas was determined to bring John Mark along.
 
Discernment: Paul rejected John Mark because he had earlier withdrawn himself from their missions team. He was a young man then, being as yet unacquainted with bearing the cross. When troubles came, he quickly terminated his missionary journey and returned home. This might have affected not only Paul but the church of Antioch as well. We understand that Paul excluded John Mark as he had yet to gain spiritual strength to fight the spiritual battle. Later when he had the “muscles,” Paul told Timothy, “Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry” (2 Tim 4:11).
 
Divine discernment is very important in our work for the Lord. God’s work is not a game to be taken lightly but must be done seriously for what is at stake is the eternal life of people. As Calvin said, “We ought to make more account of the truth than of the favor of all the whole world; but it is convenient that we ponder wisely what great weight there is in the matter which is in hand.”
 
THOUGHT: Am I serving God according to His prescribed way?

PRAYER: Father, Thy Word gives light in the way.

 

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