July 3, 2008

Hello. I am still reading in Acts specifically chapter 22 here where Paul is adressing the people who are actually about to kill him. As I was reading his testimony I thought about why he was so great. And how he got to such an esteemed position in God's kingdom. And the more I read I began to understand that God specifically enjoyed using Paul because he started off persecuting christians and ended reviving the nationwide church of God. And I think the amazing thing was people listened to him because he was completely honest and didn't have to sell God anywhere. The reality of it was that he didn't have to sell God because God always comes through for us. Another reason I believe they listened to him was because he had been in sin like they had. Actually some of the worst sin because he killed the first martyrer ever. The thought in everyone's minds was, "Wow, if God can heal people through a man who once killed christians; then why wouldn't I be able to." God doesn't intend for us to fall into sin. But because we have free will we might. But the fact is God is going to use that for good. Saul was a sick man who killed christians and that was his choice and wrongdoing but god uses him for so much more. Thousands came to Jesus because of Paul. The last reason I think Paul's ministry was so effective is because he was willing to die for it. You realize who you really are and your real value system when life or death is on the line; and the fact was that they didn't really have anything to live or die for and this concept interested them. Monumentally. Something to work toward. So I conclude these things.

Effective Ministry.
1. Ministry should be truth. Because the fact of the matter is that ministry is truth.
2. Ministry should show your testimony and struggles because real-life experiences are the most unique, passionate, and moving.
3. You should be willing to die for your ministry because the fact is in Acts 20:24 Paul says this:

"But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God."


Because something that is worth dying for is worth paying some attention and thought to. And that is our goal. To get their attention and get them thinking about it.




If I had a million dollars I would want to share it and my good fortune with my friends. God is my million dollars and more. I want to share him with my friends so much.

Lord,
Help me to reach others rather than let this fire burn inside me and not ignite anyone else because eventually it will diminish. I get re-ignited as I spread the wildfire to others.

Love,

Your humble and faithful servant.