Now in writing this, I am not saying that EVERY Christian is called to be a pastor, rapper, singer, speaker, author, etc. Truth of the matter is God has not called everyone to start a ministry; however, we are still called to MINISTER. We are called to go and make disciples of Jesus Christ (See, Matthew 28:18-19). As a result of our relationship with Christ; however, our life goals or careers may have to change in order for us to carry out his will for us. The moment we accept Christ is the time ministry starts, whether interacting with others, entering a college classroom, and so on. Our life, our character, our morals, our beliefs should reflect that of Jesus Christ.
Looking deeper into the idea of ministering successfully I believe there are 4 passages of scripture which are great blueprints for the operation and functioning of ministry. Obviously, MANY passages in the Bible could greatly pertain to ministry, but these are just a few I thought were relevant:
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1) Ministry should always promote and proclaim the truth.
(2 Cor. 4:1-2- NLT)
"Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. 2 We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don't try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the TRUTH before God, and all who are honest know this."
An important thing to remember is that we stand in the presence of God, meaning that He hears our every word. We must strive to promote the truth of the Gospel, even if the truth we proclaim doesn't always please listening ears.
2) Ministry should be consistent and reliable with the Word of God.
(2 Cor. 4:2- NLT)
"We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don't try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the TRUTH before God, and all who are honest know this."
(2 Timothy 3:16-17- NLT)
"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work."
This is pretty much an echo from point number one, but obviously it is virtually impossible to do ministry without the word of God. Essentially God's Word is what equips and utilizes us to complete the work God has given us.
3) Ministry should introduce people to Christ, not merely yourself.
(2 Cor. 4: 5-6- NLT)
"You see, we don't go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus' sake."
Paul's main focus of preaching was JESUS CHRIST. Considering the fact Paul wrote most of the New Testament books, his message was always about Christ, and not his accomplishments, abilities, and attributes.
In my opinion, I feel as if this could become a major struggle amongst individuals in ministry. By God's grace, some of us have been given incredible gifts, talents, testimonies, insight, etc. It is a natural tendency to take great pride in our various gifts, but we can't let pride override our true purpose and goal. Remember the Gospel message has not changed, God does not "need" our gifts in order to make the message more effective or powerful. The power of the Gospel message (Jesus Christ) is the reason why our gifts and talents flourish (See, 1 Cor. 12:1-11).
4) Ministry minded people strive to have a sincere heart, and do not brag about their spectacular ministry.
(2 Cor. 5:11-12- NLT)
"Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this too. 12 Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart."
(1 Cor. 13:1-3- NLT)
"If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn't love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it, but if I didn't love others, I would have gained nothing."
These passages say it ALL! Without love and a sincere heart our work in the ministry means nothing. A great question to ask is, are we impacting people or just merely impressing them?
5) Ministry minded individuals are more concerned with being an example, rather than creating an image.
(1 Tim. 1:15- NLT)
"This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: 'Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners'-- and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinner. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life."
Again Paul addresses us with so much realness and authenticity. Paul shared his past and his failure so that others would have hope also. He didn't address us like he "had it all together," in fact he refers himself as "the worst sinner of them all." In our ministry can people see our transparency and authenticity?
6) Ministry minded individuals pursue knowledge, rather than pursue power.
(2 Tim. 4:3-5)
"For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you."
This passage sums up all the points beautifully, but as ministry minded individuals we should always lead people to the knowledge of God, and not control them with power and myths.
Thank you all for reading. The list could go on and on. By all means please feel free to comment, provide feedback, and continue the list yourself. Love!
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