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FAITHFUL MINISTRIES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10
Acts 20:13-21

1 Timothy 1:12-14

 

“…for that he counted me faithful,

putting me into the ministry…”

 

FAITHFUL MINISTRIES
 
As Paul journeyed back to Jerusalem, he decided to have a short visit with the elders of the Ephesian church. The under-shepherd’s heart reflected the Great Shepherd’s love and care for His flock. Being in a hurry, he called for them to meet him. He reminded them how they had seen him serve and testify of the Word, and therefore they too must in like manner faithfully do so.
 
Ministry of service: Calvin explained, “To serve the Lord is taken in this place, not for to worship God in holiness and righteousness, which is common to all the godly; but it doth signify to execute a public function.” Paul called to mind his way of serving the brethren with humility of mind, not with pride. He did not serve hypocritically but with sincerity. He served fearlessly in the midst of many dangers. The Apostle desired that the Ephesian elders serve in the same way.
 
Ministry of Scriptures: Paul “kept back nothing that was profitable” (Acts 20:20). What were these “profitable” things? He was referring to the message he testified to both the Jews and Gentiles. This is the treasure that was entrusted to him. The Word of God is mighty to save everyone who believes. This gospel calls for “repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21). Paul solemnly declared both sides of the gospel coin: turning away from sin and turning towards the Lord Jesus Christ, receiving His grace to believe.
 
Church ministries must not only be a service to others but must be focused on God’s Word. Otherwise it will be nothing more than a social club or charitable organisation. At the same time, ministries must not just be for the accumulation of God’s Word, but also for the application of it by the believers. Or else it is just an academic, intellectual engagement with the Bible, producing scholars and intellectuals. This two-pronged ministry of Paul is a biblical pattern which makes for a profitable ministry.
 
THOUGHT: Am I truly serving the Lord under my church’s ministries?

PRAYER: Father, show me how I can serve Thee rightly.

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