THE OPEN DOOR

Philadelphia—the name signifies, “the city of brotherly love.” How appropriate then for a church to be birthed there, for love for our Father and for our fellowman is the Great Commandment to Christ’s followers. Out of that flows the church’s commitment to the Great Commission—to reach the lost, baptize them into the fellowship, and disciple them. This church at Philadelphia is pictured as “the church of the open door.”  Christ holds the key and has unlocked the door to evangelism. 

We must seize the opportunity while the door is open. There are three mandates for a missionary church. These are the featured in Revelation 3:8 where Jesus declared. “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.”

First, we must have A POWER THAT IS SUFFICIENT. “I know your works…you have a little strength.”  From the human perspective, this congregation would not seem impressive. The numbers of people, financial resources, and community influence was minimal. These are often ways we gauge a church’s impact from a human perspective. Yet, what we have here is a heavenly perspective. Jesus says, “I know your works,” and commends them for being a great church as He gauges it. That is the only evaluation that matters! 

An old song says, “Little is much when God is in it.” A shepherd’s staff surrendered to the Lord could be used to part the Red Sea. 300 warriors obedient to God could route an enormous army camped against them. A stone in a slingshot hurled by a young lad could bring a giant to the ground. A pot of oil could be poured out over and over to be used to pay the debt a widow owed. Five loaves and two fish placed in the hands of Jesus could feed 5000. An old rugged cross where Jesus gave all would be the means of redemption. Twelve common men sold out to Christ would turn the world upside down!

Second, we must have A PERSEVERANCE THAT IS EVIDENT. “I know your works…for you…have kept My word.”  Our responsibility is faithfulness and God’s is to produce fruitfulness. We sow the seed and the Lord of the Harvest brings in the crop. Let us not consider what the world wants in order to shape our appeal to them and thereby miss what God requires—obedience to the truth, that is, faithfulness to the Word. An open door that welcomes all sinners to hear the Gospel must never be an open door to allow false doctrine and compromised morality to invade the church. We are to seek the stray sheep, not build a barn for goats. We say to anyone and everyone, “Come,” but to those who would be saved, “Repent!”

The Risen Lord would specifically commend them, “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.”  Because they would keep steadfast, God would keep them secure. Their perseverance would bring their preservation.

Third, we must have A PROFESSION THAT IS DEFINITE. “I know your works…for you…have not denied my name.”  The missionary church is not about publishing its fame, but proclaiming Christ’s name. “ ‘Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved,’ ” (Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬‬). The faithful church is not one to promote the messenger, the music, or the ministries, but to preach the Master!

The name of Jesus is the great dividing line—the difference between heaven and hell. It will be an open door to those who will be saved and an offensive name to those who are to be damned.  The church of the open door preaches that name and lets the chips fall where they may!

The letter closes with this appeal:

“ ‘Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. ‘ “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ‘  ” (Rev. 3:11-13). 

Are we listening?

TO THE GLORY OF GOD

God is most glorious and He is above all things to receive glory. In 1 Peter 4:7-11, the Apostle focuses on how can do all things to the glory of God. 

There is to be intentional URGENCY. “But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.”  (1 Pet. 4:7)

I am reminded of the words of missionary C. T. Studd, 

Only one life, ‘twill soon be past; 

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Writing as a man in his seventies, who has been active in church work for nearly half a century, I can attest to the rapidity with which life races by. There is no rewind button. Every precious second that ticks by, with a significant amount spent in sleep and basic necessities, will never be reclaimed. Time is too precious to waste or as we say, “killing time.” Instead our days are to be devoted to the glory of God, as those who must stand before Christ and give account. 

Human history is linear and not circular. There was a starting point in creation and there will be a finishing point of consummation. Those who glorify God best live as though Christ might return today—for He may! 

This leads us to seriousness—“therefore be serious.”  It doesn’t mean we shuffle along with a long face as in a funeral, but rather that we run purposefully with joyful anticipation of a wedding with Christ our Bridegroom.  That is important. If you have ever been around a woman preparing for marriage, you know they take the wedding seriously!

This further inspires supplication—“watchful in your prayers.”  Those who glorify God most are those who spend time in His presence. As we gaze into His glorious face, we reflect that glory when we leave the private place of Divine communion and journey to the public place of human connection.  

There is to be loving FERVENCY, “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’ Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.” (1 Pet. 4:8-9)

While we ought to say to others, “I love you,” it is imperative that we show others we love them. True love is a fire exhibited fervently. As God is nauseated by lukewarmness, He desires that we “have fervent love for one another.”  

Such love is marked by humility. “Love will cover a multitude of sins.” We are to humbly forgive and not assert our own rights. We are not about exposing the flaws of others, instead humbly confessing our own failings. As Jesus said, 

And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do  not consider the plank in your own eye? Or how can you say to  your brother, “Let me remove the speck from your eye”; and look,  a plank is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank  from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the  speck from your brother’s eye. (Matt. ‭7‬:‭3‬-‭5‬‬)

Peter tells us such love is also exhibited by hospitality. “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.”  An open heart and open arms lead to an open door. How we entertain one another in our home ought to be with gladness and not a grumbling.  It is something we want to do and not just we have to do—a delight and not a duty.  

There is to be gracious MINISTRY. 

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as  good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks,  let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him  do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God  may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory  and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭10-‭11‬‬)

Every church member is to be a minister. All the Father’s children are gifted children. Being born again of the Spirit, each of us has at least one spiritual gift. These are not for show, but for service. 

Every church pastor is to be teacher  “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God.”  The preacher has a particular ministry of speaking the Word of God—not his opinions, but God’s oracles.

There is a sacred stewardship. “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”  As mentioned previously, a day of accounting is coming. Paul put it this way, 

Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious  stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear; for  the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the  fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. If anyone’s work  which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If  anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be  saved, yet so as through fire.  (1 Cor. ‭3‬:‭12‬-‭15‬‬)

There is a supernatural supply. “If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies.” Christian ministry is a human impossibility. If we do it, then we can claim credit for it. If God does it through us, then He gets the glory. That is the way it works. The secret is to abide in Christ. Read John 15 where our Lord reminds us that He is the Vine and we are the branches. If a branch is not connected to the vine it cannot bear fruit. Now, we may think our service is something, but Christ says it is nothing—that is, of no eternal significance unless done in supernatural reliance.

When there is intentional urgency, loving fervency, and gracious ministry, here is the result: “that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.”

SERVICE AND NOT SERVE US!

 Too many churches are “self service” organizations.  They have members who demand that the ministries of the church, “serve us,” when the Lord intends for members to be ministers engaged in service of others. Consider this devotional thought from Stephen Olford:

“I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day.” – John 9:4 

The true principle of all real service for God underlies this statement of the Lord Jesus. And since He was the perfect Servant when upon this earth, He made this principle the basis of His loyal service to God.

The Obligation of True Service. The Lord Jesus said, “I must work.” The obligation of loving and loyal service to His Father compelled Him to work. Yes, right from the beginning (remember the temple when He was twelve years old?) to the end. 

The Occupation of True Service. There is only one great occupation in true service – it is doing God's will. I must work the “works of Him.” “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me,” said the Savior (John 4:34). 

The Opportunity of True Service. “While it is day.” Now is the acceptable time … “Time is short” (1 Cor. 7:29). 

I can do nothing else but serve You, Lord, all of my days, 
For it is a privilege and an honor – yes, even my duty! (According to Your Word, Stephen Olford, p. 76, Kindle Edition).

 

 

SERVING AND SPEAKING WITH SINCERITY

You can do the right thing for the wrong reason and it is still wrong. Case in point: the Pharisees of Biblical times did many right things—fasting, praying, giving, reading Scripture, and attending worship—yet did it for the wrong reason, as a religious show.  There was outward conformity, but inward hypocrisy. God desires for us to serve Him and speak for Him, but with sincerity. In contrast to the Pharisees, we have the Apostle Paul who declared in summary of 2 Cor.2, “For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ,” (v.17‬‬).  There are three basic elements of such motivation and manner of ministry.

Serving and speaking with sincerity calls for RESTRAINT, (v.1-4). Paul had chosen to communicate with tenderness in a letter, rather than with toughness in a visit. There were many issues in the Corinthian church that called for confrontation. So, he had addressed these needful matters in his first epistle to them. It was painful discipline, but essential correction. 

Yet, Paul felt no joy in having to bring them to tears. His hope was that their repentance would be an ongoing work of the Spirit among them, so when he did visit there would be joy and not grief. While there were still issues (and always will be until  Christ returns and we are glorified), the Apostle writes with restraint. Having “spanked,” them, Paul will now hug them.  Corporal punishment of a child is not to become damaging abuse. It is to be administered with restraint and done in love rather than anger. This is true in dealing with sin in the church.  Then sorrow is supplanted with smiles!

Serving and speaking with sincerity seeks RECONCILIATION, (v.5-11). By this, we do not refer to the reconciliation with God brought in salvation, but reconciliation among the members attained by church discipline. 

Sin in the body affects the whole body. When a member must be disciplined, it is a painful process—a spiritual surgery. Apparently that rebellious member was now repentant. The correction had achieved its purpose, so the erring member was to be forgiven and reconciled to the congregation. Failing to practice church discipline is wrong, but so is a purpose of rejection instead of restoration of the sinning member. Satan will take advantage of being permissive or punitive concerning sin in the body. 

Unrepentant sin is a cancer in our soul. If the church is soft and overlooks the sin in the name of love (while shirking truth), then the malignancy spreads. This is what Paul had to forcefully address in his first epistle to them. Yet, if we are severe in confronting the sin in the name of truth (while neglecting love), the result is the amputation of the member, bringing loss to both them and the church. Admittedly, if the cancer of sin is not dealt with through the removal of the malignancy of wickedness, then to save the body, the member has to be “amputated,” but the hope is that the chemotherapy of confrontation and the radiation of repentance will deal with the disease, without the amputation of excommunication!  Satan would kill or at least cripple the church body by diverting us to being permissive or punitive. He is so crafty, promoting either “love,” or “truth,” when God’s way calls for both in balance. 

Carl Sandburg described Abraham Lincoln this way: "Not often in the story of mankind does a man arrive on earth who is both steel and velvet, who is hard as a rock and soft as a drifting fog, who holds in his heart and mind the paradox of terrible storm and peace unspeakable and perfect."  In dealing with erring members, we must have a hand of steel in a glove of velvet!

Serving and speaking with sincerity demands RELIANCE, (v.12-17). As we consider the challenges in church life in this pagan environment  and our own human frailties, we ask with Paul, “Who is sufficient for these things?”  How can I be tough and tender?  The answer is, “I can’t,” but Jesus can—and He is in me!  Paul will answer this question, “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” (3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬‬). It is in reliance on Jesus—His virtue and victory—that we can serve and speak with sincerity.

At Troas, Paul would see a vision of a man from Macedonia begging him to come share the Gospel. Paul would be obedient and take the message of Christ to Europe for the first time, (v.12-13). That is how the Gospel came to Corinth on the Grecian peninsula and the church was established. It was in reliance on God’s guidance and grace that the Apostle accomplished this work.

Relying on Christ, we are “more than conquerors,” (cf. Rom.8:37). Paul illustrates the principle here, of being conquered by Christ in order to be conquerors with Christ, (v.14-17). The Apostle uses the imagery of a Roman general returning in triumph from battle. The cavalcade winds through the city of Rome, preceding through the cheering throngs, with the priests swinging burning braziers of incense. To the captives who had surrendered to the conqueror, it was the smell of life, but to those who had resisted it was the stench of death. The former group would become servants while the latter would be slain. The Gospel we share has the same effect. Those who receive it find eternal life, while those who reject it enter everlasting death. The Gospel witness has a fragrant aroma of heaven, as well as the smell of hell’s smoke and sulphur. 

None of us are sufficient for the magnitude of such a ministry. For this, we need the power of God and Christ’s Gospel. Only then can we avoid being religious racketeers who peddle God’s Word—offering scraps of truth concealing toxin—for personal profit. Let us take our calling with utmost sincerity. God has called us and holds us accountable as to whether we are speaking an undiluted message with unselfish motive.

A CHALLENGE TO THE MEMBERS

I commenced this message with a charge to the elders, and now I want to conclude with a challenge to the members.  

First stand faithful with your leaders (v.9-15). 

“Make every effort to come to me soon, because Demas has deserted me, since he loved this present world, and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry. I have sent Tychicus to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak I left in Troas with Carpus, as well as the scrolls, especially the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. Watch out for him yourself because he strongly opposed our words.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭4:9-15‬ ‭CSB‬‬

Paul’s words are heartbreaking. There were many who abandoned him and others who abused him. I have been glad to watch people join the church, but I have grieved over those who have deserted the church.  Each is a small cut, and a pastor bleeds a slow torture each time. Other members, like Alexander the coppersmith, do great harm—and oppose the Lord’s word. Don’t be one of those!  

Stand faithful and stay focused on your Lord (v.16-18). 

“At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that I might fully preach the word and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil work and will bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭4:16-18‬ ‭CSB‬‬

The ultimate focus of Paul was not the men who deserted him, but the Lord who stood with him.  He lived for another world—a pilgrim on a journey to the heavenly kingdom. His focus was on the glory of God.  Look up!

Then, seek fellowship in Christian love (v.19-22). 

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus has remained at Corinth; I left Trophimus sick at Miletus. Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, as do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters. The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭4:19-22‬ ‭CSB‬‬

Having a focus on Christ does not negate having fellowship with Christians. The church is His body. That fellowship is essential! There is urgency, the Apostle expresses, “come before winter.”  He wanted his cloak and his Scriptures (4:13)—the cloak to warm his skin and Word to warm his soul!  

What are you doing as a member of the fellowship to show love to your pastors and the people?  Are you connected to a fellowship now, where you can receive ministry from the Body?

SWORD AND TROWEL

“The laborers who carried the loads worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other.” (Nehemiah‬ ‭4:17‬‬b)

The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls required the laborers to work with a trowel in one hand and to wield a sword in the other. It is an apt description of those God has always used in the building of His church. The sword is required because there are spiritual forces arrayed against us, led by the archenemy of our souls, Satan. The trowel is required for it is not enough to fight our foe, but we must toil in our task, as well.

This was the thought behind Spurgeon’s monthly magazine called, “The Sword and the Trowel.”  He began its publication in 1865. The subtitle read, “A Record of Combat With Sin, and Labour For the Lord.”  The first issue made clear these twin purposes of battling and building. Spurgeon wrote, “We speak in love, but not in soft words and trimming sentences. We shall not court controversy, but we shall not shun it when the cause of God demands it. ...  We would sound the trumpet, and lead our comrades to the fight. We would ply the trowel with untiring hand for the building up of Jerusalem’s dilapidated walls, and wield the sword with vigor and valour for the truth.”  This, Spurgeon faithfully did, till his ministry concluded at his death.

This is our task still. Not all appreciated Spurgeon’s commitment to the truth—and make no mistake if you take a stand for Biblical doctrine and devotion in these days, you will be attacked as a hater, when it is love for the Lord and love, indeed, for those who reject the truth which motivates us, though it is not perceived as such. Yet, we dare not be ever looking for a fight, but must exert positive service in our Master’s cause. We must employ the trowel!

Pray for those who mount the pulpit today to carry sword and trowel. Ask God to help you as you enter the church house for marching orders and construction assignments—to go forth from that assembly into the world and make a difference for the cause of Christ.

FOR THE SAKE OF THE CHURCH

“I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1:24-29‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

The church will not rise above the level of commitment expressed by her leaders.  Paul was passionate and productive, “for the sake of His body, which is the church” (Col.1:24).  I want to challenge every leader—myself included—to elevate their effort for the sake of Christ’s body, the church.  I want to challenge those who are not in positions of leadership to pray for and encourage those who are—and to consider getting busy yourself!

There are several imperatives for us to follow in Colossians 1:24-29.

1. SUFFERING FOR THE CAUSE (v.24)   Why did Paul joyfully suffer?  It was for the cause of Christ; for “you,” he says—meaning the church.  We are familiar with the physical fitness mantra, “No pain; no gain.”  That is true spiritually, as well.  Every leader God uses has been forged in the fire of difficulty.  This wasn’t theoretical to Paul.  Note the word, “now,” and be reminded that as he was writing it was from a prison.  He was suffering in jail—his only crime being faithfulness to Christ.  But, he rejoiced!

2. STEWARDSHIP OF THE CAUSE (v.25-27)   Mark the word, “stewardship.”  It’s about more than money.  Paul was called to be a “minister.”  That word has to do with service.  Each of us has a work to do for God.  A steward was a household manager who took care of his master’s assets.  That’s what we do in the House of God.  Paul was a minister of the Word—a mystery he was unveiling.  The Apostle was part of a great movement to spread the Gospel around the world.

3. SUCCESS IN THE CAUSE (v.28)   Paul was a man of focus!  Benjamin Disraeli said, “The secret of success is constancy of purpose.”  D.L. Moody stated, “Give me a man that says, ‘This one thing I do,’ not ‘these fifty things I dabble in.’”  Paul had a laser-like intensity in his mission—to proclaim Jesus!  This is the church’s mission and is to be the leaders’ passion.  We cannot allow anything to distract us.

4. STRENGTH FOR THE CAUSE (v.29) Spiritual responsibilities demand supernatural resources. We are not smart enough to lead the church properly. We are not strong enough to lead the church productively. God wants to work in us and through us. This work is the work of God and He alone can do it, but remember this lesson I heard from John Maxwell years ago, “Apart from God, we cannot, and apart from us, God will not.”

DEVELOPING SPIRITUAL STAMINA

Read Jeremiah 12:1-6.

Why do bad things happen to good people?  It is an age-old, perplexing question. Jeremiah stands that on its head with an equally vexing question, essentially asking God, “Why do good things happen to bad people?”

Jeremiah is not bitter.  He prefaces his question with a confession of God’s utter righteousness.  Yet, even though the prophet knows this in his head, his heart is another matter—struggling with the fact that he as a prophet was being faithful to God, resulting in suffering and the false prophets were being faithless and experiencing success.  His eyes were full of tears over sin while the false prophets mouths were full of laughter profiting from sin.  The hypocrites were firm in their position and fruitful in their profession—using religious vocabulary to beguile the people while the prophets’ minds were on profits instead of God.

Jeremiah was a great man.  But, he was a man—subject to the same struggles of us all.  We sometimes think the champions of the Bible were supermen, but no—they felt the same hurt, and fretted over the same issues as we do.  If you are struggling while serving God today, just remember that you are in good company—all God’s men have.  Faithfulness to God means there will be no favor from the godless.

Jeremiah proposes a solution.  He has been treated like a sheep for the slaughter by the religious leaders (11:19), so why wouldn’t God turn it around and bring the same judgment on his foes?  It’s only fair!

God’s answer is not what we might expect.  Basically, God told him that what happened in him was more important than what happened to him!  God not only permitted Jeremiah’s pain, but He had a purpose for it.  The prophet questioned God, so God questioned him.  I paraphrase, “If you’re struggling to keep up running with the infantry, how do you expect to race with the cavalry?  If you’re worn down running in an oasis, how will you be at slogging through a jungle?  If you think it hard to endure the taunts of the enemy, how will you withstand the treachery of your family?”

There is only one way to develop spiritual stamina and strengthen faith muscles—resistance.  We must place ourselves in a gym with a grueling workout.  We must run until we think we are going to collapse.  That’s how we get ready for a marathon.  “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.” (Heb.12:1-3)

A GRIEF OBTAINED

Years ago, the great Christian thinker, C.S. Lewis, wrote a book entitled, “A Grief Observed.”  In this brief, but poignant volume, he describes his struggle after his wife dies.  The pious platitudes and Christian clichés so often employed in the midst of sorrow were found to be hollow.  Lewis wavered in maintaining a faith that had seemed so rock-solid.  Once he spoke with such conviction about the things of God, as if he had all the answers.  Suddenly, he was thrust into an abyss where answers could not be found.

The reality of a loved one’s death was brutal…and it still is.  Have you ever watched a seven-year old granddaughter who had been so full of life a year ago be consumed with cancer?  Have you ever sat down with your son-in-law and your daughter to plan a funeral service that you will conduct?  I hope not—and pray you never do!  The pain is excruciating. I know that many of you who read this have been in similar times—a spouse, a sibling, a son—someone so dear and near and now all that remains are tombstones and memories.

I recall as a young pastor, visiting the hospital, seeking to minister by encouragement, Scripture, and prayer—and maybe somewhat effectively.  Nothing helped me be more helpful than when I was hospitalized for a week with a major operation, requiring a month to recuperate.  My sympathy factor increased exponentially and I believe my ministry was enhanced.  It was no longer theory, but experience that gave me a platform of compassion.

I believe that is what Paul was saying in 2 Corinthians 1:3-7,

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.  For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.   If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer.  Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort. (ESV)

I have no idea how many hundreds of funerals I have officiated, and can truly say I have sought to weep with those that wept and bring them comfort.  People have told me that they have been helped by my ministry.  Yet, I know now what I have never known before.  In the space of a week I have spoken at my father and granddaughter’s funerals, and felt a heartache from which I will never recover until the great Resurrection Day.  That hope seems more precious than ever to me!  I can testify that God’s grace is enough—that His comfort is real—and He will do the same for you, no matter what trial may come.  “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1:21 ESV)

PRIORITIES IN MINISTRY

But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.  And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.  (Jude 20-23)

There is not enough time to do all you want to do.  There is not enough time to do all others want you to do.  There is enough time to do what God wants you to do!  It is a matter of finding His agenda to drive your priorities.  When it comes to church ministries, there are many good things that can claim the time of pastor and people.  Jude gives us insight on God’s priorities.  

Priority number one is BUILDING (v.20a).  Jude isn’t referring to bricks and mortar, but building up God’s people.  We have tended to measure a church’s effectiveness by the buildings, budgets and bodies.  But that isn’t what the Scripture here suggests.  This is spiritual development.  

It is a conscious action.  You must make a decision to build.  It is costly, time consuming business with little immediate results.  Building people up won’t happen by accident.  

It is a careful action.  God has given us a blueprint—the Bible.  We must take care to build according to His specifications.

It is a continuous action.  The Greek verb is a present active participle meaning continuous action.  The work of discipleship is never done—personally or corporately—this side of eternity. Faith is the foundation, but we must carefully build upon it. 

Priority number two is PRAYING (v.20b).  Concerning praying, when all is said and done—there is often a lot more said than done!

This speaks to the priority of prayer.  Without it, we’re on a religious treadmill.  We can do much after we pray, but nothing until we pray.

We recognize the power of prayer.  The Spirit gives the direction and dynamic to our praying.  He is the source of our power.

Priority number three is LOVING (v.21a).  Jesus loved the church and gave himself for her.  We are to follow His model.

This demands our personal effort.  You must keep yourself—it’s a choice.  You don’t fall in or out of love.  Guard your heart.

It speaks to our present environment.  We abide in an atmosphere of holy, heavenly love.  This is love for our Father and love for our brother.  You can’t love one and not the other. 

Priority number four is LOOKING (v.21a).  The most effective ministry is one done with an eye on eternity.

This is a look or preparation.  The most important dimension of Christ’s return is a call to readiness.  What are we doing that is of eternal significance?

This is a look of expectation.  The script of this story we call life can bring difficulty, but just remember the final chapter ends in glory!

Priority number five is REACHING (v.22-23).

This speaks to our compassion (v.22).  All about us we see the misery caused by the mastery of sin.  We can help by reaching out with the Gospel!

This should be our compulsion (v.23).  The fire of hell compels us to sound the warning.  Lost souls cannot rescue themselves.  We must pull them out.

May God keep us focused on these priorities!  Some day when we stand before Him, we’ll be glad we did!

THE SUPREME SERVANT

“Behold! My Servant whom I uphold,

My Elect One in whom My soul delights!

I have put My Spirit upon Him;

He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.  ‎(Isaiah 42:1)

Jesus is the supreme servant—the model for all who are on mission for God; the only perfect pattern for Kingdom work.  Isaiah paints His portrait prophetically in chapter 42.

Here we see the MANNER of the Supreme Servant (v.1-4).  Though equal with the Father, the Son would take the role of the Servant in submission to the Father’s will.  He came to this world to accomplish His Father’s assignment.  His life on earth was not about asserting His position, but accomplishing His work.  He was the King who stooped to serve.  He ever brought delight to the Father, as we hear God say at both Christ’s baptism and transfiguration, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”  Pleasing His Father was His passion—and He did that flawlessly.  His relationship with the Father was mirrored in His relationship with the Spirit—the harmony of the Trinity evident in the incarnation.  He was conceived of the Spirit, continually filled with the Spirit, and empowered by the Spirit for ministry.  Jesus lived as Man to show men how man was meant to live.  He was not boastful or boisterous.  Jesus was tender in His dealings with others and tenacious in His duties to God.

Next, we note the MINISTRY of the Supreme Servant (v.5-9).  His absolute love for the Father in the vertical dimension was mirrored in His manifest love for others in the horizontal relationship.  He had come to bring righteousness to the unrighteous that sinners might be accepted by a Holy God.  He would establish the New Covenant in His blood.  The Jews had failed to keep the Old Covenant, but Jesus would fulfill it, and in doing so would bring Israel into the blessings of the New.  Not only would Jews receive this grace, but Gentiles as well, as Jesus would bring them out of the darkness into the light.  Eyes blind to the truth would be opened by His teaching.  Souls held in bondage to Satan would be liberated by His power.  The glory of the invisible God would become visible in Him.  “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:18).

We further observe the MIGHT of the Supreme Servant (v.10-13)  We sing to Him a new song for He had done a new work.  His praise is to be universal because His service extends the offer of salvation for all.  God the Father receives glory from the saints for they have been redeemed by the Servant.  Jesus came as a man to reach men, but as God accomplished that which only God could do.  He was despised, but not defeated.  In His death, He procured the victory.  In His resurrection, He proclaimed the victory.  In His return, He will prevail in victory.  All His foes will be finished!

Jesus set the standard for every servant of God.  Try as we might, however, we frail creatures of flesh will fall short.  There is better news—the Supreme Servant now indwells us!  As He worked in His human body, He works through His body, the church, exhibiting His manner, extending His ministry, and expressing His might!

LIBERTY IN THE MINISTRY

Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.  (1 Timothy 5:17)

Freedom is not the right to do anything you want, but the liberty to do all that you ought.  It is a liberating thing to get in my car and go where I want, but I must restrain how fast I go by the speed limit signs.  Similarly, in ministry there needs to be liberty for the pastor and associates—“the elders”—as they are called here to pursue their ministries without shackles that some congregations place on them.  Those liberties, however, involve responsibilities.  A train has great freedom of movement, so long as it is on its tracks, but let it derail and its progress has halted.  God has laid down some tracks for the minister and the members to move forward in His mission.  Paul warns us not to get off the rails!

Ministry needs liberty in substance (v.17-18).  The church does not pay her staff a salary for the work they do—or they could not afford it!  The pastor preaches the unsearchable riches of Christ and deals with immortal souls, where the issues are heaven and hell!  His reward will be in heaven, because the members simply could not pay him enough.  The man of God is not a hireling.  The burden of the Lord is thrust upon him and he will do his assignment whether anyone pays him a penny.  He has not simply taken this as an occupation among several options because he has chosen this field—no, God has chosen him.  So why does the pastor get a paycheck?  It frees him to pursue his work without needless concern for his family’s needs.  The shackles of debt and anxiety do not hinder him.  In the case of the one who leads the flock and feeds them faithfully and fruitfully, they are to be given a larger compensation—this inspires them to work even harder.

Ministry needs liberty from slander (v.19-22).  Some of the most grievous wounds a pastor ever suffers are from sharp tongues.  If a minister has to worry that he will be assaulted by slander, with no defense, it has the potential to enslave him to his critics.  Judas Iscariot was among the twelve, and there are some akin to him, that Satan strategically places in churches today.  This does not mean the pastor need not worry about morality, or has absolute authority over the congregation.  If he sins, he is to be confronted, but there is a Biblical process established here.

Ministry needs liberty from sickness (v.23-25).  Timothy was a “teetotaler,” and that is a good thing—normally.  In his case, however, a contaminated water supply was causing the shackles of sickness to hold back his ministry.  Paul tells him a small amount of alcohol can have a purifying effect on the water—so he is free to do that.  The concerns about alcohol were well-founded, however—and it is why priests and kings were forbidden from it while discharging their spiritual leadership (Lev.10:9-11; Prov.31:4-5).  Intoxication leads to immorality (v.24-25).  In our time, there is little need—most ministers have access to pure drinking water.  The principle is important.  If a pastor is not healthy, he will be hindered, and the church needs to insist he care for his body so he can care for their souls.  Let us liberate the ministry and God will bless that church.

THE DANGER OF DEFILEMENT

Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them.  ‎So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.  (Leviticus 10:1-2)

The more you know of God, the more for which you are accountable.  The greater the responsibility we have with men, the stricter is God’s scrutiny with us.  James warned that men must be very careful about desiring to stand and speak for God because their judgment will be to a greater degree than that of others (James 3:1).  When a two year old child plays in their food and throws it across the room, a parent sees that as behavior to correct, but would not punish a child like they would if it were a twelve year old doing it.  The older child knows more, and is more accountable.  Those who minister the Word of God are students of Scripture and “to whom much is given, from him much will be required.”  (Luke 12:48)  If a private in the army makes a poor decision, then he will be held accountable, but not to the same degree that a captain would, whose bad decision may lead to the death of many or turn the tide in a decisive moment from victory to defeat.  Every Christian has some measure of influence.  Should we be defiled by sin, then we will harm ourselves—and some others.  It is a serious.  The severity of judgment, however, is greater for the pastor and church leader, for their influence is wider.  If I stumble—not just a few—many will stumble over me because I am leading.

This is why God dealt so quickly and severely with Nadab and Abihu.  They were priests, and given the responsibility to represent God to the people and bring the people to God.  They had privileges others could not enjoy—of touching the holy things and entering the holy place of the tabernacle.  How they lived their lives and performed their duty would be a direct reflection on the God they served.  They took a sacred duty and kindled a strange fire.  We might sum their sin up as the sin of presumption.  They took upon themselves a duty reserved for their father, Aaron, the high priest.  They used their own censers, instead of the ones consecrated for this purpose.  They acted on their own authority instead of obeying the Word of God.  There is no record they sought God’s will before they acted, but rather acted out of self-will.  It is also possible they were under the influence of alcohol instead of the Spirit (Eph.5:18), since there is a specific prohibition for priests concerning abstinence from alcohol given in verses 8-11.  There are many in church life today trying to do God’s work with carnal means.  They presume to accomplish sacred duties with worldly methodologies—and what it invites is the judgment of God.  It is defilement that brings death.

Our lives as Christians will either be a stepping-stone to help people to God, or a stumbling block to hinder them from God.  Jesus said it would be better to have a heavy millstone tied around our neck, be thrown into the sea, and drown, than to cause others to stumble.  When a pastor or church leader falls, they defile the holy name of God (Lev.10:3) and harm the holy people of God.  May the Lord guard us from defilement!

THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort....  (2 Corinthians 1:3)

The name of God is sacred for it reveals the nature of God.  Since His name is a disclosure of His infinite being, then many names are given in Scripture to help us relate to Him.  One name is not adequate, though all others flow from the name, I AM, for that is a limitless term, as we may see in that glorious name, many facets of God's nature.  I AM Alpha and Omega; I AM the Bread of Life; I AM the Good Shepherd--and so many more.  Whatever we need, we may know there is a name for that need.  Thus, Paul, writing to the Corinthians here, identifies Him as the "God of all comfort."  It was a precious name that Paul could bear witness to for he had been the recipient of God's remarkable comfort.  The degree of the solace he had received was in direct proportion to the depth of the suffering the Apostle had known.  As one reads this letter, Paul opens the door into the heart of a Gospel preacher and allows us to peer into the chambers filled with pain and problems that come with ministry.  Yet, in his disappointments and difficulties, during loneliness and labors, there is the note of faith in the sovereign purpose of God and declaration of the supernatural peace He bestows.  The best preaching arises from more than a doctrinal proposition formulated in the pastor's study, but from the personal manifestation of that truth's reality in daily living.  Paul wasn't discussing a theory but giving a testimony to the "God of all comfort."

The man of God knew something more--that God is no respecter of persons--so the comfort He gives for one man's trials is a promise of comfort to another facing his or her own problems.  Whatever you are going through today--the relentless pressures and pain of life that roll in continually like ocean waves--there is a supply of comfort available to us to enable us to withstand the storm surge.  God builds a sea wall with timbers of truth, grounded on the solid Rock, cemented together by grace to guard our hearts from despair.

In providing for Paul, God gave him a life message to other struggling pilgrims, and when we experience His comfort it is not meant to be hoarded, but shared.  Here is the context:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation. (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)

God had comfort for Paul in his suffering and now he encourages the Corinthians that similar comfort is available to them, and thankfully to us as well!  May you know the "God of all comfort" today!

THE LEADER’S AVAILABILITY

 

I once heard Dr. John Tiller, the former pastor of the church I now serve say in a sermon, “The greatest ability is availability.”  It doesn’t matter how much potential you have until your performance fulfills it.  Then, I think of what leadership guru John Maxwell said, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”  Jesus—as in all things—exhibited the leader’s availability absolutely.

 

This is THE FORCE OF OUR SERVICE.  As we make ourselves available to be used of God, we see Him work through us in incredible ways.

 

·         Jesus was available TO THE DISTRESSED.

 

Then He went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and was teaching them on the Sabbaths.  And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority.  Now in the synagogue there was a man who had a spirit of an unclean demon. And he cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth?  Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!”  But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of him!” And when the demon had thrown him in their midst, it came out of him and did not hurt him.  Then they were all amazed and spoke among themselves, saying, “What a word this is! For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.”  (Luke 4:31-37) 

 

Now, whether we encounter those who are actually possessed by demons, or more likely oppressed by spiritual forces, the grim reality is  so many are under Satanic bondage these days.  What shall we do?  Will we reach out to them in compassion, and declare to them the power that will set them free?

 

·         Jesus was available TO THE DISEASED.

 

And the report about Him went out into every place in the surrounding region.  Now He arose from the synagogue and entered Simon’s house. But Simon’s wife’s mother was sick with a high fever, and they made request of Him concerning her.  So He stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. And immediately she arose and served them.  When the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them.  And demons also came out of many, crying out and saying, “You are the Christ, the Son of God!” And He, rebuking them, did not allow them to speak, for they knew that He was the Christ.  (Luke 4:38-41) 

 

We have a ministry to the sick.  Elders may be summoned to anoint with oil and pray for the sick.  Physical infirmity may hinder spiritual productivity.  Sometimes God is most glorified through giving grace to press on despite our weakness, and sometimes He is most glorified in giving grace to bring healing—even miraculously.  But, whatever a Sovereign God decides, he has chosen to use us as channels through which that grace can flow.

 

·         Jesus was available TO THE DESPERATE

Now when it was day, He departed and went into a deserted place. And the crowd sought Him and came to Him, and tried to keep Him from leaving them; but He said to them, “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.”  And He was preaching in the synagogues of Galilee.  (Luke 4:42-44)

 

These people were desperate for Jesus.  Wherever He was and whenever He was there, they sought Him out.  That is true of people everywhere.  He moved from place to place.  His mission was urgent.  Lives are filled with hopeless desperation.  Is there any hope?  Does anyone care?  As God’s church we offer hope to the world, but a church will not be encouraged to this task without the example of her leaders.

 

If a leader shuts himself up in an ivory tower far from the hurts of people, then he has forfeited his right to church leadership.  Shepherds must be with the sheep if they are to help them.  Ours is a day of celebrity preachers who don’t counsel the distressed, visit the diseased or take time for the desperate.  What would Jesus do?  You can see here by answering the question, “What did Jesus do?”  Go, and do likewise.