BASIC SCRIPTURES 6 September 2023
BASIC SCRIPTURES: 1 CORINTHIANS 9:16-27; SONGS OF SOLOMON 2:15
1 Corinthians 9:16-27 and Song of Solomon 2:15. Let’s take a look at these scriptures and reflect on their relevance to the topic.
1 Corinthians 9:16-27 (NIV)
16 For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! 17 If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. 18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make full use of my rights as a preacher of the gospel.
19 Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21 To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Song of Solomon 2:15 (NIV)
15 Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.
FINISH READING ODM ==> Our Daily Manna 6 September 2023 – THIS PASTOR DID NOT LAST LONG IN MINISTRY!
Reflection:
1 Corinthians 9:16-27 emphasizes the dedication and sacrifice that come with preaching the gospel. The apostle Paul discusses his commitment to sharing the gospel and his willingness to adapt to various cultural contexts to reach different people. He compares the Christian journey to a race and encourages believers to run with purpose, not aimlessly. This passage reminds us that perseverance, discipline, and keeping our focus on the eternal prize are crucial for effective and lasting ministry.
Song of Solomon 2:15 uses metaphorical language to warn about “little foxes” that can ruin vineyards in bloom. Similarly, in ministry, there can be various challenges, distractions, and compromises that, if not addressed, can hinder a pastor’s effectiveness and longevity in ministry. Just as a vineyard requires protection from harmful influences, pastors need to guard against factors that could hinder their spiritual and ministry growth.
When exploring the topic of a pastor not lasting long in ministry, it’s important to consider the lessons from these passages. Ministry requires dedication, adaptability, perseverance, and the recognition of potential pitfalls. By relying on God’s strength, seeking spiritual growth, and addressing challenges, pastors can enhance their ability to serve effectively and endure in ministry over the long term.