God-given Ministry

 

Text: Acts 20:17-27   IBCWPM    November 9, 2005

Preacher: Pastor Jose B. Cabajar

 

   We strongly believe that every believer has a God-given ministry to manage prayerfully and diligently so he may accomplish whatever task God has given him to do in life. Awareness of one’s purpose leads every believer to become responsible of his vital role in spreading the Gospel of Christ.

 

   The Apostle Paul was a classic example of a man who was aware of his God-given ministry and was determined to finish his course with joy. In Acts 20:24, it is written, But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (KJV) Certainly, Paul’s faith and love-triggered determination made him an outstanding finisher of the Christian course of life.

 

   Today, the burning desire of many Christian to reach out more souls for the Lord Jesus Christ is still evident, but if we neglect to be involved and overlook our responsibility, the powerful ministry that God has given us will be weakened because of spiritual negligence and indifference of many. Before the devil laugh at us to scorn our inability, we must be alarmed and give our best support to our God-given ministry so we could carry on our mission unhindered.

           

                  (I) In Need Of Much Care

   Acts 20:17-24

   Must not be hindered by:

   -Pride

   -Potential threat

   -Selfishness

   -Uncertainties of the future

   -Affliction 

 

                  (II) Must Be Accomplished

                       With Joy

    Acts 20:24-25

    -A joyful worker is a

     delightful servant

 

                   (III) Must Be A Guilt-free

                         Ministry

      Acts 20:26-38

     -Responsible people is

      the secret of guilt-free

      ministry

 

   In Acts 20:25-27, it is written, And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. (KJV) These passages give us a thought not to ignore our God-given ministry, but to love, guard and enlarge so we may lead more souls to the Lord and be guilt-free as we serve Him with joy.