This week’s sermon My Local Church and I part 8E by Pastor Josh Laryea emphasises the importance of being called to ministry, as a privilege. The moment you become born again, you are called into ministry as seen in the patriarchs, prophets, Jesus, and apostles who saw it as a privilege to serve God, responding to their call to ministry. Serving God is a privileged position and that is how believers respond to Ministry. The tool for ministry is the word of God. It is crucial to know the word, as it is the tool for Ministry.
The Gospel teaches that true believers hear and obey God’s word, demonstrating their devotion to His word. Believers are bondservants for Jesus’ sake, embodying the mentality of a bondservant. This understanding is crucial for effective ministry. It is important that servants submit to their master’s will. The responsibility of bearers of God’s light is to spread this knowledge, as all men are transformed into his image and likeness on earth and will be together with him in eternity.
According to 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, we have the Ministry of Reconciling men to God. The Ministry of Reconciliation is a powerful tool for teaching and living the message of reconciliation, bringing many people to Christ. As a Minister of Reconciliation, we are called forth to shine Christ wherever we are, ensuring that others are also a reflection of Christ’s light.
2 Corinthians 6:3 emphasises the importance of keeping no offence to avoid being blamed. Apostle Paul protected his ministry by ensuring no offence. Patience is essential in enduring offences. As an approved worker of God, you must bear the pain for others and offer your little to make a difference. It’s not about you, but about transforming and changing the world. A minister of God always looks beyond their own interest and strives to be a servant of God, ensuring that everyone is served. Apostle Paul emphasises that as servants, we must not allow offence in Ministry. There is no room for offence. Protect your ministry by avoiding offence, which can affect both you and others. Be intentional in avoiding offences, as it can lead to loss of joy and impact the ministry.
Regardless of your role—be it pastor, bishop, or minister—intentionally addressing offence is essential for the well-being of the local church and the effectiveness of its ministry.