SERVANTS NEEDED NOT LEADERS

SERVANTS NEEDED NOT LEADERS

CHURCH IS NOT A BUSINESS

“What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” 1 Cor. 14:26

That is the test of the exercise of spiritual ministry within the Church the ministry which in its holy fellowship may be exercised by any of its members as they are led of the Spirit of God. There is to be liberty for such ministry, but only in so far as its exercise tends to edification. And let it be remembered that this idea of edification so often occurring in the apostolic writings, is never that of the deepening of the spiritual life of the individual. It is always that of the erection of the house, the making of the entire building, and so the test of ministry is that of its value in perfecting the Church. This is a simple test, but its effects are far-reaching. No member of the fellowship has any right to exercise a gift, even a gift bestowed by the Spirit, in order to secure glory or popularity. Of course, this needs no argument, but so subtle is the self-life, that it does need to be constantly kept in mind. Moreover, no member of the Church has any right to exercise a gift in the assembly in order to personal advancement in Christian life and character. There is a place for such exercise, but it is in loneliness, it is to be done "to himself and to God." God is in no need of leaders in His church (Matt. 23:10), only servants (Mark 10:44). It is not a business and business practices have no place there. He charges no fees for salvation is free and by grace. The law of ministry within the Church is that of selflessness. When there is no seeking for glory, and no thought of profit to one's own soul ministry becomes powerful.