7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God’s grace, which was given me by the working of his power. 8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, 10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. 13 So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory.
Ephesians 3: 7-13
Minister of the Gospel
By the working of God’s power, Paul became a minister of the gospel. The word “Minister” means a servant and implies serving and service, like a waiter at the table. As a faithful servant, the gospel became Paul’s priority for the rest of his life. You may not feel that you have the gift of preaching the gospel but evangelism IS one of a Christian’s life purposes. I once heard there are two things you can only do on Earth and you won’t get to do them in heaven. 1) Sin. 2) Preach the gospel: witness to people and bring people to Jesus. It is so true that the lost only have this life to be saved. What if you are probably the best shot they have. So, let’s all be a minister of the gospel. Save one more, Jesus, Save one more, Jesus.
Paul wrote in 1 Cor 2:1-2 “And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God.2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” Not everyone can be Billy Graham but I thank God that He’s not asking us to be one. Even Paul did not use eloquent speeches or relied on human wisdom. As long as we have a sincere heart and share the good news with love, the Holy Spirit will work in people’s hearts.
The Mystery revealed
What is the mystery?
in one sentence – the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise of Christ Jesus through the gospel. (v.6)
in one word – the church (v.10)
Mysteries are to be revealed at the time God intended. Paul was one of the chosen vessels to reveal the mysteries. The mystery is Christ. The mystery is a church and not only a church but a church with gentiles and Jews in the same body. Isn’t it amazing that we now know all the mysteries of God (the ones that God intended for us to know)? We get to live in the church age, receiving all the spiritual blessings. Let’s follow Paul’s footsteps and reveal this wonderful gift of salvation to as many as we can.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, please help us save one more. Give us the courage to witness to people and may you prepare our friend’s and families’ hearts to receive the gospel. Amen
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