1 Corinthians 16:15-18
You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. I urge you, brothers, to submit to such as these and to everyone who joins in the work, and labors at it. I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
In this passage, Paul compliments a saint named Stephenas, who was performing the valuable ministry of serving the other saints. Many people are interested in the topic of wanting to become leaders, but very few are interested in how to become a servant for Christ. Everyone wants to be a leader, but do not understand how to serve others. Jesus actually set an example of leadership for us; while on earth, Jesus said that "the Son of Man has not come to be served, but to serve." This is the attitude of the Lord - He had compassion for those in needs through healing, caring and teaching them. May God help us to start from the most minuscule thing when we serve God. Many would like to serve on the pulpit, but few would to do janitorial work in the church. If you and I are not faithful on small things, how are we going to serve the Lord on big things?
Paul said that the church was lacking them, but Stephenas saw it and made up for it, so that both church and Paul were refreshed. This is such a glorious work! When your ministry and make church and ministers refreshed, you ought to feel privileged. This type of ministry, however, is not easy to do, because it takes meticulous observation to sense the needs of the ministers and congregation. Brothers and sisters, are you willing to play such a role no matter what position you are holding at church? Let us learn from the example of Stephenas so that we don't just seek a superficial position, but instead live out the example of how Jesus served people from the bottom of our heart. Paul said that "such men deserve recognition." Let us all envy those who can serve others!
Pray with Pastor Tong
Lord, we thank you because we saw the testimony of Stephenas. May your Spirit uplift us once again so that we may live out the example of Jesus Christ. Let us not just be served, but to serve others. May you help everyone who read this message today to become someone who serves. I thank you and I pray in the victorious name of Jesus, amen!
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