Ministry in a Multi-Cultural and Unchurched Society

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Mi n i s t r y i n a Mu l t i -Cu l tura l and Unchur ched Soc i et y

word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘THEY HATED ME WITHOUT A CAUSE.’”

3. However someone would have responded to Christ, so will they respond to us.

B. He appoints his messengers to endure suffering for his sake

Acts 9.15 (ESV) – But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.” Phil. 1.29-30 (ESV) – For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, [30] engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.

1. Christ selects his messengers with a full knowledge of what they will have to endure for his name’s sake

2. Christ already knows the extent of the struggle we must endure as his messengers

3. It is a high honor to suffer for the name of the Lord (e.g., Acts 5.41, “So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for his name”).

C. As soldiers of Christ, we are to endure hardship for the sake of his honor and glory.

2 Tim. 2.1-3 (ESV) – You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, [2] and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. [3] Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.