2 Corinthians 10 -- Three Important Areas Of Ministry To Understand

My commentary said, "Paul's first step in enforcing his ministry was to correct the misunderstandings that existed in the minds of the people with reference to his work.  They did not understand three important areas of ministry."  They are:

How to wage Spiritual warfare

"Paul wanted his converts to trust the Lord, and not the servant; so he deliberately played down his own authority and ability ... He did not depend on the human but on the divine, the spiritual weapons provided by the Lord.  His warfare was not according to the flesh, because he was not fighting against flesh and blood.  You cannot fight spiritual battles with carnal weapons."

How to use Spiritual authority

"The example we must follow is that of Jesus Christ, who came as a servant and ministered to others ... No matter what course Paul took, they were bound to condemn him.  This is what always happens when church members are not spiritually minded, but evaluate ministry from a worldly viewpoint ... How a Christian uses authority is an evidence of his spiritual maturity and character ... It takes more power to wait than to strike ... Mature leaders suffer while they wait to act, while immature leaders act impetuously and make others suffer."

How to measure Spiritual ministry

"Paul suggests three questions we may ask ourselves as we seek to measure our ministries by the will of God.

     Am I where God wants me to be?

     Is God glorified by my ministry?

     Can the Lord commend my work?

There is a present testing of the work we do.  God permits difficulties to come to local churches in order that the work might be tested and approved."

"The important thing is that we are where God wants us to be, doing what He wants us to do so that He is glorified.  Motive is as much a part of God's measurement of our work as is growth.  If we are seeking to glorify and please God alone, and if we are not afraid of His evaluation of our hearts and lives, then we need not fear the estimates of men and their criticisms."

Thank You, Father.  Help me to seek Your answers to these questions about my ministry.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford