As iron sharpens iron,
one person sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17)
In Romans 11:13, the Apostle Paul inserts a short but pointed phrase which has the power both to convict and to inspire. He wrote simply: “I magnify my ministry.”
It seems that such a personal and dynamic statement may be better understood when it is exemplified than when it is exposited. But it has captured my imagination, and I thought that I would share a few thoughts on the subject—for my own sake, as well as those who read them.
“It was forty years ago that I began serving a small rural church in southern Indiana. I was so incredibly green then; I’m glad I didn’t always realize it. I loved those people in that church, and for some reason, they loved me, too.” - Thom Rainer
“God has graciously allowed us to mentor, support, and send out several men…. Their stories are a testament to what God can do when a church is committed to investing in individuals, encouraging them, and walking with them as they step into the ministries God has called them to.” - GARBC
“Adam became a leader, or a steward, because God made him one. God is still the One who gives leadership to people ‘since there is no authority except from God’ (Romans 13:1). Leadership before it was tainted consisted of watching over and working.” - Eric Geiger
“The church must avoid assigning the pastor’s wife to ministry roles God may not have called her to, gifted her for, or directed her to do.” - Lifeway
“What can a pastor do when his church is in decline? The answer boils down to something deeply personal: evaluating the pastor’s connections.” - Brian Cederquist
“…what the church really said was, ‘Pastor, we’re dying on the vine. We need somebody who is old and can help us make changes without blowing it apart.’” - GARBC
“1. Don’t discount women…. 2. Pray for men to step up…. 3. Identify men whom you can challenge toward leadership…. 4. Equip men to lead.” - GARBC
Read Part 1.
Is it possible to seek to advance and excel in ministry without being caught up in the celebrity syndrome?
How can we make the greatest impact possible for the cause of Christ—without falling into the traps that come with celebrity status? How can a minister remain accountable in ways that are both effective and healthy, as we travel to preach and teach?
When I began my ministry with The Friends of Israel in 2019, I started with one verse emblazoned on my mind: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). I saw FOI as a wonderful outlet through which to serve the Lord and His people. And God gave me a burden to minister in this way.
Discussion