When we minister, we meet with our inadequacies. Or at least I do.
I fall hopelessly short of the glory I proclaim. Paul says he is all things to all people. I can barely be some things to some people, and even then, not all the time.
Paul preaches on the priority and picture of love, and I see how small my heart can be by comparison. When Jesus talks about sacrifice, I see in myself selfishness.
Conclusion? I am not competent for ministry. Period. But neither are you. No one is competent for ministry. At least, not by ourselves.
I am not competent for ministry but I am confident for ministry because Christ has made me competent.
Paul writes of this type of confidence in ministry, saying “such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God” (2 Corinthians 3:4). Through Christ. That’s key. We are made confident and competent through Christ. Christ stands as the bedrock for all ministry.
And just to be sure, Paul adds, “Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God” (v. 5). Got it. Not me. God.
“Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold” (v. 12).
Be bold in ministry!
Don’t question your abilities. They’re inadequate. No question about it. But Christ is more than adequate.
Wondering if you’re ready for ministry? You’re not. But Christ will make you ready.
Therefore, connect to Christ (John 15:5), and be bold in ministry.
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