Sunday Morning Plug – ‘The Joseph Model of Finding a Way to Support Mission’s Ministry’ . Acts 4: 36 ‘For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. 37 He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles.’ In my position in mission’s ministry, I sometimes sit in literal amazement how God assures mission ministry efforts are supported. I have to say, in my sphere of relationships, He touches the heart of just a few kind people that sends our mission’s ministry huge distances than we’ve ever gone before. And I’m extremely grateful! These supporters remind me of the Jerusalem church member, Joseph, someone who wasn’t necessarily hearing from God or recorded as being lead by the Spirit; but who simply had a heart to financially support what He witnessed firsthand of the Jerusalem church Gospel ministry. Of his own resources Joseph took action, finding a way to generate money for the cause of Christ. And is it any wonder that the Jerusalem church leadership nicknamed him: ‘Son of Encouragement.’ Joseph encouraged the work of Christ greatly. And fortunately in my mission’s ministry context we know precious folks like this. They encourage our mission ministry efforts by coming alongside us and making a difference. But what’s interesting to me is, as our mission’s efforts expand, the work increasingly demands more supporters. And I believe those supporters are already among us. They just have to adopt the Joseph mindset and heart of finding a way to assure any and every expression of Christ Gospel ministry work is funded. Now personally, I may not be a good front man for ministry. I’m very biblically raw in my thinking and passionate in my practice. I’m a disciple and son of Pastor Nathaniel Winslow and grand-son of Reverend Joseph Jeter, old fashion bible-believing bible-teaching bible-practicing men who simply believed God blesses His people solely for the purpose of blessing the Gospel ministry, not themselves. These men dont believe or even care about advertising it; strictly doing it. I believe everyone of us owe to the person and cross of Jesus Christ to prayerfully and financially support any effort that in the end will translate in new souls saved, new disciples made and new churches planted. And when that’s a struggle, something’s spiritually and practically wrong with our relating to God. But that’s just my opinion, doesn’t have to be yours. But here’s why I posted this morning. In the spirit of Acts 4:36-37: ‘Who among us doesn’t want to known as an encourager of Christ work?’ Since He found a way for us, shouldn’t we be willing to find a way for Him and His cause? Well, we all should; and if for no other reason, the meaning and message at the cross of Calvary. There, Christ found a way for our eternal redemption. And it both mirrors and models finding a way to assure His Gospel message and ministry is advance at our expense. Today, consider being a Joseph, a ‘son or daughter of encouragement!’ Attach yourself to some authentic mission movement\ministry that specifically is assuring souls are saved, disciples are made and churches are planted. And do so prayerfully and financially. I believe it will take standing before the Bema seat judgment of Christ when we get to heaven to understand the truth and true value Christ places on supporting His mission ministry movements, just like Joseph. Be intentional about being a son or daughter of encouragement.
Posted on: Sun, 16 Mar 2014 11:49:38 +0000
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