His sermons were over their heads. His opinionated views alienated his colleagues. Coworkers found him boastful, even arrogant.
A physical disability drove him to over-function in ministry. Religious leaders found him to be a rude – definitely not a team player. When he attended a ministry conference you could always expect fireworks. The first two congregations he pastored rejected his leadership, and, unable to calm their internal strife and bickering, he went on to a third. And his church planting scheme used under-trained, under-aged outsiders as pastors. By some measures of success, his ministry was a failure. This was no mythical pastor…
This was the Apostle Paul.
He knew, clearly the difference between seeking man’s Approval vs. gaining the their Respect. He was who he was – without apology or compromise. Perhaps seen as a failure in his day, but certainly not in ours. Lonely at times but never alone. He lived for the applause of Heaven and wouldn’t water-down his message or life for momentary accolades. Caesar & Nero thought they were the stuff of that day but now we call our salads ‘caesar’, our dogs ‘nero’ and our sons Paul!
I’m no Apostle Paul… Not even close! But, wow, I’m so convicted and inspired by his passion, purpose and character! His confidence, conviction and courage are something that I needed to be reminded of this week. I’m thankful for Paul. He did what no one else could (or would) do. He fought harder than the haters or the hypocrites. And, I think he would still say today: don’t hate, imitate! And, I’m trying!
So, who’s your model for ministry?
*picture is painting by Rembrandt of Apostle Paul
(I’ve looked like that for a few weeks)
A timely post. Thank you.
You’re welcome! By the way, you rock my face off!
Biblically , Hadassah aka Esther is a role model of mine. Her unwavering faith in God is a great example for me to remember and follow when facing the seemingly impossible odds that have wanted to paralyze me.
Yes! May we all live “for such a time as this”!
You’re “convicted” of this ? Wah !
“Wah!” … and your point?
I love Paul! He is a great role model. My role model is Ruth. Her faithfulness was incredible to me. She stuck by Naomi even though she was told to leave. And she listened to what Naomi said and they were redeemed. I want a faith like that. I want to listen to God and do what He says no matter how crazy it sounds because He is my God and He knows everything. Thanks for sharing your role model!
I love the story of Ruth as well! Just read it to my boys last night at bed time. By lovingly preferring her mother-in-law, God orchestrated a blessing for her life and ALL that would follow! Never underestimate the value of serving & respecting our elders!
I think if you were to live out the bible Paul would have to be your main role model other than Jesus. He did what God called him to do and what God calls all of us to do, make disciples. I know that his life convicts mine every day. I am jealous of his tenacity and wisdom.
Yes, of course, Christ is our primary role model. He was Paul’s only pursuit. But, I find myself studying Paul because of his flesh – and the discipline required to surrender in every situation – so Jesus could be seen!
Totally agree! Also, i long to have his relationship with the Holy Spirit. That was his best attribute to me. He had true faith in what God can do.