Participation in the work of the gospel is a collective privilege for the church. However, we do not always see it that way. For many, the work of Christ is either an overlooked nuisance or an expectation for an overloaded pastor. Today we will see how Paul’s ministry team carried the mantle of ministry in both the obvious and unexpected ways, as motivated by a deep love and longing within the privilege partnership of ministry.
1 Peter 5:1-4
“To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”
Observations:
Timothy
1. Sending – vs 19; 23-24
2. Qualifications – vs 22
3. The Interest of Christ – vs 20-21
Epaphroditus
1. Sending – vs 25a; 28
2. Qualifications – vs 25b – 27
3. The Work of Christ – vs 29-30
Conclusions:
For success in serving Christ:
- A love and longing for the interests of others
- Willingness to go where God would send
- Interconnecteness of Gospel partnership
Application:
Where is God sending you?
C.T. Studd
Only one life ’twill soon be past.
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
2 Corinthians 11:23-28
“I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.”