Preaching the Gospel

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What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?

 

“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” 2 Timothy 4:2.   

 

Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?

 

“These are the Scriptures that testify about me.” John 5:39.

 

Note – Everyone, therefore, who preaches the Word aright will preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God’s Word, said he was determined not to know anything “save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2.)

 

How did Christ present the truth to the people?

 

“With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand.” Mark 4:33. 

 

Note – Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for whom they labor – to meet the people where they are.

 

How should the servant of God labor?

 

“And the Lord’s servants must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:24,25.

 

Note – While the claims of the law of God are presented to the sinner, ministers should never forget that love – the love of God – is the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance and obedience, and that to save men is their great work.    

 

Preparation to Preach With Power

 

In preparing the disciples for their work, what did Christ do?

 

“Then he opened their minds so that they could understand the Scriptures.” Luke 24:45.

 

For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?

 

“I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Verse 49.

 

How did the apostles preach the gospel?

 

“It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have been told to you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven.” 1 Peter 1:12.

 

What was the result of this preaching?

 

“But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand. “So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priest became obedient to the faith.” Acts 4:4; 6:7.  

 

What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?

 

“He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:6. 

 

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