“…and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost…” Acts 6:5 KJV
All of us who are believers were given a ministry when we were first born into the family of God, which is to tell others about Christ, primarily by sharing our testimony. As we bring people to Christ, our ministry will usually advance into a more specific avenue of
ministry as we mature in the Lord.
This seemed to be the case with Stephen. Although it’s not stated, the people knew and trusted him, so there was obviously ministry already taking place in his life before the Apostles ordained him to serve tables. It does say that he was recognized as being full of faith and the of the Holy Spirit!
I see a trend throughout the New Testament about the call to ministry, and that is this, the ministry finds you! Examples are: Saul of Tarsus (The Apostle Paul), Barnabas, Timothy, the twelve disciples, and Stephen and the other six deacons, are among those who found themselves in the ministry of the Gospel of Christ. Many others in the last century like Oral Roberts, T. L. Osborn, Smith Wigglesworth, John G. Lake, and Kenneth Hagin are all examples of the ministry finding them. Every one of those men were anointed of God and found themselves in ministry due to personal experiences that catapulted them into God’s plan for their lives. These were people who were healed of terminal illnesses, those who were simply looking for answers, or those who heard about a Jesus they never knew, and began to follow Him… and follow him they did!
God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called! So, if you’re one of those who feel you don’t have much going for you, you might be surprised at the possibilities God may have for you in ministry! A brief study into the lives of the disciples from when Jesus called them from the shores of Galilee to follow Him, and how He transformed them into ministers of fire, only encourages us to know that when He calls us, He equips us. He has plans for you that will challenge the very image you have of yourself, and His image of you has yet to be revealed in its fulness! That’s exciting!
With Love,
Pastor Tom
Kingdom Business is Eternal, as are the rewards that come from God. If this ministry has been a blessing to you, please consider partnering with us in prayer, as the Lord leads you, or in financial support. Please visit our website at www.testamentoflove.org to learn more about this ministry! Luke 6:38