The Marks of A True Minister!

Scripture: “Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God...” — 2 Corinthians 6:3-4a

Devotion:

In 2 Corinthians 6:3-10, Paul declares a powerful and personal witness to the actual service of God. It does not look pretty but commands patience, affliction, and price pay. Through them, he unfolds the heart of a real minister in all its Christlikeness, whatever the cost.

Paul begins by emphasizing the necessity of being blameless so that ministries are unblamed: "But in all things without giving way to arguments, are so as to give no hindrance to the message as regards other people."

Ministers should be conscious that every action they do affects the presentation of Christ to the watching world," states an earnest appeal by Paul. "Our lives, as well as our actions, must show the truth, converting people unto Christ even through persecution, not turning people away from Christ."

The list that Paul narrates immediately after speaks of trials: "In afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings." These are not scenarios that are suitable for human imagination. It's written with blood and talent in all capital letters. Yet with all this, Paul would go on trying his hardest to make an offer as his goal: "By pureness, by knowledge, by favor, by the power of the Holy Ghost, by sincere love."

Right after these ends the paradoxical phrases "sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things": this is actually the greatest irony, somewhat akin to Christian doctrine, in that we rejoice in grief while we enjoy some spiritual wealth when in material poverty. Our identities and sustenance come not through earthly comfort but by identification with Christ.

This variable is a challenge to us all. Are we ready for hardship for the sake of the Gospel? Are we sure to adopt a life of integrity that lifts the name of Christ, no matter the price? A genuine minister is recognized not by his comforts but by his firm standing. Not by his accolades but by his faithful, steady path.

Prayer:

Lord God,  Thank You for the example of Paul and the truth of Your Word. Strengthen me to be a faithful minister of the Gospel in all that I do. Help me to endure trials with grace, to walk in purity and love, and to never be a stumbling block to others. Let my life reflect the character of Christ, and may I serve You with a heart full of joy, even in sorrow, and with hope, even in hardship.
In Jesus’ name,  Amen.