The standards by which God judges faithful ministry are the opposite to the values of this world. Themes within this sermon focus on the godly humility of leaders, marks of true spiritual ministry, the union with the sufferings of the cross, and the need for all Christians to have the gracious mind of Christ.
Paul feeling worn out and afraid of what was coming next is greatly encouraged by the Lord, who renews him through his Word and in many practical ways. For instance God sent Paul’s companions back to him. God spoke to him directly. God assured Paul that he was loved!
What Paul is doing right throughout this letter is putting steal into Timothy’s weak frame. Timothy was timid, shy, reserved and young. Timothy not only had to deal with his character, which was naturally reserved but he had to deal with a political atmosphere that was anti-Christian, plus a difficult congregation, plus those who had […]
Paul was motivated in his ministry because he was Christ’s Ambassador. He was a representative of the King of this Universe. Whoever was dealing with him was dealing with God. Whoever was dealing with him was dealing with the Alpha and the Omega, the lamb that was now the lion, the one with the feet […]
One day we will stand before the judgement seat of God and all will be revealed. How will we feel as we stand before the judge of the earth, Jesus Christ, the one with the nail marked hands and feet, the one who died for us and our works are shown to be nothing than […]
What Paul is writing here is that although the smell is the same to both the victor and the conquered, their reaction to the aroma is different. For one the smell of the gospel is absolutely wonderful but to the person who has rejected Christ the smell is abhorrent. It signals their demise and ultimately […]
Thus, when it comes to ministries in the church, there has to be a deep appreciation of what others do, as well as a modesty/humility in regard to what we do! None of us should think to ourselves that our ministry is the only one that counts. All of us have been granted ministries by God […]