2/13/2011 Do You Have a Ministry?

  Today Pastor began by asking the question, “Do you have a ministry?” He then took us to 2 Corinthians 5:17 & 18. It is here that Paul explains to believers that we are new creatures reconciled to God through Christ Jesus. Paul then tells us that all who are reconciled also have a ministry of reconciliation. He goes on to describe us as “ambassadors for Christ, as though Christ were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.” (Verse 20)
   The point here is that while some are called to be pastors, prophets evangelists etc. we are all called to be ministers. We all have the ministry of reconciliation. All believers must make it their purpose to use their time treasure and talents to bring as many people as possible into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. What that looks like in the life of each believer will certainly vary.
   While the details of how we all carry out the ministry of reconciliation can vary wildly, Pastor gave us all some solid advice that every believer should apply in all areas of life. He said, “People won’t care about how much you know until they know how much you care.” This is important for those who have been saved for many years and have a great deal of knowledge. It is easy to be so worried about getting the information out that we forget we are talking to people with needs and hurts right now. Christ set the example when he had hungry people and instead of telling them “Don’t you understand my message is more important than bread!”, He fed them. He showed real compassion and love.
   Sometimes the greatest tool we have in evangelizing the people around us is our ears. One thing I have learned in sales is that people are far more likely to care what you have to say after they know you care about them. This works in selling products and in spreading the Gospel. One-on-one evangelism only works if the person first believes the messenger cares about them personally.
   The summary here is, love People, spread the Product(Gospel) and be aware that to most people you are the only bible they will ever see. Therefore you are the Packaging.
  See yourself as a minister everywhere you go and in every interaction you have and it is just a matter of time before you will find yourself growing the Kingdom of God one relationship at a time.