April 12, 2017: SOAP #2687: 1Samuel 13; 1Chronicles 2-3; 2Corinthians 12

Scripture:  2Corinthians (NIV) 12:12 The things that mark an apostle—signs, wonders and miracles—were done among you with great perseverance….19 Have you been thinking all along that we have been defending ourselves to you? We have been speaking in the sight of God as those in Christ; and everything we do, dear friends, is for your strengthening.

Observation:  Verse 12 is a scriptural way to identify an apostle. Their ministry will include signs, wonders and miracles.  From the way this scripture is given, I would believe that if these are not present, then it is not the ministry of an apostle.

Verse 19 further explains an apostle’s ministry.  Everything they do is for others.  And from the context of these verses, an apostle does not exploit or take advantage of those seeking out his ministry.  The purpose of an apostle is for the church, not for selfish gain.  An apostle does not expect or demand financial support from others but is an example of how to depend on God.  An apostle is appreciative of the support God sends through others.

From Paul’s example, we see that an apostle is a personal witness, a church planter, and moves from place to place to encourage the believers.  He disciples future church leaders.

Application:   I am not an apostle, but the purpose of the ministry God has given me is not for my gain, but the strengthening of others.  A gift of ministry has been given to me to make me useful.  If I am useful, I will be used.  If I am used, it is easy to get tired of being used.  But if I cannot be used, I will be useless.  It is much worse to feel useless than to feel used!   With age should come maturity.  It should be easy for people to use me.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, make me useful.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!