Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2.15

The Christian Ministry: Part I, chapter III
Charles Bridges (1794-1869)
“The ministry of the word was ordained for the planting and watering of the church…Thus has this great ordinance of the Gospel regard to the continual progress of the church, both in its collective body, and in the several states of its individual members. It was given ‘for the perfecting of the saints, for the edifying of the body of Christ.’ There was not only a foundation to be laid, but a building to be raised.”

When I fire my Kentucky long rifle, if I want to hit anything, I have to line up two sights – one next to my eye, and one at the end of the barrel. If we want our ministries to fulfill their God-given purpose, we have to aim both at equipping the saints, individually, and building up the congregation in unity and maturity. We find our proper sighting for each of these tasks – making disciples and building the church – in the Word of God. These are good works, and the Bible has been given to us to equip us for these tasks. Look to the Scriptures to understand discipleship and what constitutes a healthy, growing church. Then fire away! No matter the activity we’re involved in, get these two sights lined up and in harmony, then squeeze the trigger of ministry oh so gently.

What process do you follow for setting goals for your ministry? For preaching and teaching?

Fan into Flame
Our book Fan into Flame offers an overview of the work of ministry and opportunities to evaluate and improve all aspects of that calling. It includes sections on the context of ministry, the ministry of the Word and prayer, and the personal example of the minister. This is an excellent tool for taking stock of the state of your ministry, and for making plans to improve in specific areas and ways. Order your copy of Fan into Flame by clicking here.

Twelve Questions that Could Change Your Church
How do you determine the overall health of your church? Paul’s template in Ephesians 4.11-16 outlines his approach to building healthy, growing churches. Download our free assessment tool, Twelve Questions that Could Change Your Church (click here). Make copies for all your leaders. Work through it together, then discuss your observations, and you will discover areas where you can better focus your efforts in building your congregation into a healthy, growing church.

Your prayers and gifts make this ministry possible. Please seek the Lord in prayer about sharing with us at The Fellowship of Ailbe. You can use the Contribute button at the website, or send your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452.

Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.