Text: In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word." This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Acts 6:1-7
Things we do for ministry, we do for God!
1.) The POTENTIAL PROBLEMS of Ministry. - v. 1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. Notice things are happening right away in this verse. There's a division (Grecian and Hebraic). They felt like they weren't getting what they want because of their mindsets and feeling a "minority". The truth is that what they were feeling wasn't directly related to their food issues. In our society there are a lot of the same mindsets. It seems effective church ministry has the same conflicts. Replace how we see ourselves and see what God sees, then that would solve our problems.
2.) The PASTOR'S POSITION in Ministry. - vv. 2-4 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word." It is the pastors role to equip us, or create opportunities, to do the service of the church. Ephisians 4:11-12, 15 says, It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
3.) The PEOPLE'S POSITION of Ministry. - vv. 5-6 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. We need someone who understands, we have a role and an experience that can minister in ways others can't. 1 Corinthians 15:58 says Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
4.) The POWER of a Pastor and People PARTNERING in Ministry. - v. 7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Because of the delegation to handle situations that some had experience with; when people possess a ministry. Who might you influence?
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Ministry: In Jesus Name
Text: So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain." Moses said to God, "Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?" God said to Moses, "I am who I am . This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' " Exodus 3:10-14
A ministry is the servent of whatever is specified. For example, the Ministry of Defense serves our country in times that we need defense. In this passage we are reminded who we are ministers/representatives of. We have been asked to do ministry, and when God asks us to do His work, it is very specific.
1.) It is the I AM that CHOOSES (CHASES) us!-- God had Moses where He wanted him, and chased him to bring him to bring him back to Pharoah's palace. John 15:14-17 says You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other. 1 John 4:19 says We love because he first loved us. These are steps for love. God is first and last and has chosen us for salvation. He is at work around us, He has chosen us to join him in His work. You have to choose Him.
2.) It is the I AM that CHALLENGES us!-- God is in the challenging business. He challenges us beyond our own means. Look at Moses. God told him to tell them the I AM sent you. Together. Luke 14:27, And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. What a challenge to love one another. Do you see the challenges of I AM. Moses tried to back pedal, "But God...But God...", what challenge has God put before you. You have to accept the challenge. Philippians 1:6 tells us that being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. God is not going to start something in us that He won't support us to get the best outcome possible. He will see you through. What has God set you apart to do?
3.) It is the I AM that CHANGES us and others through us! -- God is always working in us as well as always working through us. In John 5:24, Jesus tells us, "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. That the changing power of God. God loves us so much, He won't let us remain the way we are.
A ministry is the servent of whatever is specified. For example, the Ministry of Defense serves our country in times that we need defense. In this passage we are reminded who we are ministers/representatives of. We have been asked to do ministry, and when God asks us to do His work, it is very specific.
1.) It is the I AM that CHOOSES (CHASES) us!-- God had Moses where He wanted him, and chased him to bring him to bring him back to Pharoah's palace. John 15:14-17 says You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other. 1 John 4:19 says We love because he first loved us. These are steps for love. God is first and last and has chosen us for salvation. He is at work around us, He has chosen us to join him in His work. You have to choose Him.
2.) It is the I AM that CHALLENGES us!-- God is in the challenging business. He challenges us beyond our own means. Look at Moses. God told him to tell them the I AM sent you. Together. Luke 14:27, And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. What a challenge to love one another. Do you see the challenges of I AM. Moses tried to back pedal, "But God...But God...", what challenge has God put before you. You have to accept the challenge. Philippians 1:6 tells us that being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. God is not going to start something in us that He won't support us to get the best outcome possible. He will see you through. What has God set you apart to do?
3.) It is the I AM that CHANGES us and others through us! -- God is always working in us as well as always working through us. In John 5:24, Jesus tells us, "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. That the changing power of God. God loves us so much, He won't let us remain the way we are.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Exterior Decorating
Some exterior decorating was done at the parsonage on the evening of March 13, 2009. I wonder who could have done such beautiful landscaping!?Maybe they left a note
I think I know who may have had a hand in this - And you better watch your backs!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Minisry: Every Member a Minister
Text: As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man's eyes. John 9:4-6
When seeking to define ministry in the secular realm you will find that dictionaries don't fully give a true understanding of what biblical ministry stands for. Dictionary.com defines ministry as the service, function, or office of a minister of state; A governmental department presided over by a minister; something that serves as an agency, instrument, or means. To fully understand our role in ministry, we need to go to God's word.
Ministry is not just for the leadership, it's for EVERYONE! In our text we see that ministry is the calling of every christian. Jesus having said that He is the light of the world, He did work, He ministered. He precedes this with the statement that WE must do the work of Him who sent Jesus.
1.) It's time to CLOCK IN! - v. 4a says...As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me. Like clocking in at work, as you put your card in the machine you hear...*CH-KLUNK*. This is how we get paid, this is also how our boss knows that we are there to work. When we clock in at work we usually aren't ready to do the work. We want the reward but don't want to do the work to get it. In the same way, where is your joy in ministry. Where is the compassion, the love, the desire to love. Isaiah 6:8 says, Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" We should declare to our "Boss" that we are ready to work. "I'm Jello, mold me, send me!"
2.) There will be a time to CHECK/CLOCK OUT! - v.4b says, Night is coming, when no one can work. When we clock out at the end of our work day, our spirits soar! When we clock out of this life, better things are to come in eternity. There is something to look forward to. We have limited time here, though, to take as many loved ones with us. It is called the end of the world as we know it, and the beginning of eternity. We have friends and family who aren't ready to "clock out"!
3.) There will be a PAY DAY for your ministry. - There is a reward. Our reward for our heavenly job is better than the reward we receive here on earth for our job. Despite whether we do our heavenly job on earth or not, there will be a pay check. A pay check in words. 1 Corinthians 3:8-9 states that The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. There will be only 2 phrases that we may receive. The first being, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" The second being, "Depart from me/Away from me, I never knew you!"
It is time to get to work! What kind of paycheck will you be receiving?
When seeking to define ministry in the secular realm you will find that dictionaries don't fully give a true understanding of what biblical ministry stands for. Dictionary.com defines ministry as the service, function, or office of a minister of state; A governmental department presided over by a minister; something that serves as an agency, instrument, or means. To fully understand our role in ministry, we need to go to God's word.
Ministry is not just for the leadership, it's for EVERYONE! In our text we see that ministry is the calling of every christian. Jesus having said that He is the light of the world, He did work, He ministered. He precedes this with the statement that WE must do the work of Him who sent Jesus.
1.) It's time to CLOCK IN! - v. 4a says...As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me. Like clocking in at work, as you put your card in the machine you hear...*CH-KLUNK*. This is how we get paid, this is also how our boss knows that we are there to work. When we clock in at work we usually aren't ready to do the work. We want the reward but don't want to do the work to get it. In the same way, where is your joy in ministry. Where is the compassion, the love, the desire to love. Isaiah 6:8 says, Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" We should declare to our "Boss" that we are ready to work. "I'm Jello, mold me, send me!"
2.) There will be a time to CHECK/CLOCK OUT! - v.4b says, Night is coming, when no one can work. When we clock out at the end of our work day, our spirits soar! When we clock out of this life, better things are to come in eternity. There is something to look forward to. We have limited time here, though, to take as many loved ones with us. It is called the end of the world as we know it, and the beginning of eternity. We have friends and family who aren't ready to "clock out"!
3.) There will be a PAY DAY for your ministry. - There is a reward. Our reward for our heavenly job is better than the reward we receive here on earth for our job. Despite whether we do our heavenly job on earth or not, there will be a pay check. A pay check in words. 1 Corinthians 3:8-9 states that The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. There will be only 2 phrases that we may receive. The first being, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" The second being, "Depart from me/Away from me, I never knew you!"
It is time to get to work! What kind of paycheck will you be receiving?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Ministry: The Art of Giving
Text-One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. Acts 3:1-8
Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and JUMPING, and praising God.
What Peter had to give wasn't of earthly value, but of heavenly value. Acts 2:45 talks about how the disciples sold all their possessions and gave to anyone that had a need. Peter saw a need, and gave to this man what HE was worth. Give to people what they need so others can give greater attention to God.
1.) Give (v.6) - ...what I have I give to you. When you are uncomfortable in spirit, you become stretched. What do we have to give...awesome and life changing power of the Holy Spirit. Little is much when God is in it. We have power. There is something you can do to make others lives better.
2.) Give! - Matthew 25:34-40 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Gave.....Gave.....Gave....Give as if you are giving what you've got to God. What do you give to? The least of these. What do you give to God? You give what you have.
3.) Give!! - Keep giving...sometimes till it hurts. Pastor Dan tells of a story from his childhood in which an older woman from the church felt like she had nothing to give to the church or its people become she was of little means. One day when finding out that Dan collected rubber bands, she became Dan's #1 supplier for the elastic-fun-machines. She found that her giving had purpose, despite how small of a gift it was. There is something special about giving the most insignificant, smallest gift. It brought joy to one.....the One!
Little is much when God is in it!!!
Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and JUMPING, and praising God.
What Peter had to give wasn't of earthly value, but of heavenly value. Acts 2:45 talks about how the disciples sold all their possessions and gave to anyone that had a need. Peter saw a need, and gave to this man what HE was worth. Give to people what they need so others can give greater attention to God.
1.) Give (v.6) - ...what I have I give to you. When you are uncomfortable in spirit, you become stretched. What do we have to give...awesome and life changing power of the Holy Spirit. Little is much when God is in it. We have power. There is something you can do to make others lives better.
2.) Give! - Matthew 25:34-40 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Gave.....Gave.....Gave....Give as if you are giving what you've got to God. What do you give to? The least of these. What do you give to God? You give what you have.
3.) Give!! - Keep giving...sometimes till it hurts. Pastor Dan tells of a story from his childhood in which an older woman from the church felt like she had nothing to give to the church or its people become she was of little means. One day when finding out that Dan collected rubber bands, she became Dan's #1 supplier for the elastic-fun-machines. She found that her giving had purpose, despite how small of a gift it was. There is something special about giving the most insignificant, smallest gift. It brought joy to one.....the One!
Little is much when God is in it!!!
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