VALUE OF THE MINISTRY.
PREPARATION FOR THE MINISTRY.
As we have seen and marvel at the genius of Mark how he said much in a few words. It is amazing how much is said in how little.
Take chapter 1:13, as simply one instance.
“HE WAS THERE IN THE WILDERNESS FORTY DAYS, TEMPTED BY SATAN: AND WAS WITH WILD BEASTS; AND THE ANGELS MINISTERED UNTO HIM.“
This Gospel is also rich in Spiritual lessons and illustrations. They are everywhere. Turn to Chapter 1 and read verses 9-13. We have been saying that Mark is the Gospel of Jesus as the Servant of Jehovah. The Perfect Servant… Let us not forget that He is a Pattern Servant. The ideal Example of service, which we should follow!
In those first few verses you read, we see the commencement of His ministry. Or, somewhat, the necessary preparation before it.
These verses are a lesson for us not to jump into the ministry of service until God fully prepares us.
We must pray at all times about everything and all decisions and choices that we must make concerning the ministry. Ensure “God” has set you apart for this high and holy calling.
1. A COMPLETE SEPARATION.
Verse 9. Separation from our former life and the things of the world. Separation of the ministry centred upon the Word of God into your particular calling. It means an utter separation “to” God.
The disciples left their fishing to catch the souls of men. Matthew left his job as a tax collector and followed Jesus. Others left houses and families to join Him.
We may have to sacrifice money, position, reputation, and take up our cross and follow Him.
2. A POWERFUL ANOINTING. Verse 10.
At His baptism, Jesus saw the “Heavens opened” He felt the dove land on his shoulder, and that was the Blessed Holy Spirit descending upon him. We must know that Heaven is open to our prayers. That we are endured with “Power from on High.”
Many people enter the ministry with the wrong motive and build churches in the flesh. Ultimately, everything comes tumbling down:
“As the flesh profits little, but Godliness is of great gain.”
AN ASSURANCE FROM THE FATHER. After Jesus’ baptism, the Father confirmed His Sonship.
“You are my Son, whom I love dearly. And God commended His Character, “I am well pleased with you, my dear Son.”
This applies to us. Can God recommend us as people of character and integrity? We need an inward assurance that God is also pleased with us. We must allow the Holy Spirit’s fruit 🍓🍑 to show our character in the handling of difficult people.
TRIED AND TESTED.
Jesus Christ was severely tempted and tried in the Wilderness. God planned this as the Holy Spirit drove Him into the desert.
The temptation was “of Satan.” Strange as it seems, even the most Godly, separated, Spirit-Anointed, Heaven-attested man or woman of God must undergo severe testing to settle whether he will go “only” and “utterly” GOD’S WAY not MAN’S.
Ministry or not, we all must do everything to the Glory of God. It takes complete surrender to His will and a total yieldedness to Him.
All this may scare you and make you unwilling to pursue your calling. Don’t give up; know that,
“He is with you always, even unto the end of the age.” “He will not fail you or forsake you.”
As for the Gospel of Mark, keep exploring. There are hidden treasures yet to be discovered.
Amen.
Blessings upon those who are faithful followers of this outreach ministry. Thankyou.
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