Balanced in Ministry Part 2 of 2

Throughout Jesus’ ministry, I noticed that He handled the lost in a different way than He handled those that knew the truth but were walking sin. Mark 6:34 is an example of showing compassion for the lost. The message is the same, it’s just wrapped differently. There are times when we do have to minister fervently, or with passion and enthusiasm. Jude 23 says “but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.” I believe that this type of ministry is for those that know the word of God but choose to walk in sin. The scripture says to save with “fear”. I believe the “repent or go to hell” message is appropriate in these types of circumstances.

In Matthew 3:5-10, John the Baptist is baptizing people in the Jordan and people are confessing their sins. Many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism. When John sees them verses 7 and 8 says he tells them “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance…” This message doesn’t sound like a compassionate message. It sounds to me like John is trying to “pull them from the fire” as Jude 23 says. Matthew 23 is Jesus’ sermon to the Pharisees. This too is an example of the type of ministry mentioned in Jude 23.

I believe Jude 22 and 23 is basically telling us that there are some that have to be led away from the fire (like sheep) and there are some that have to be pulled out if it (like Pharisees).  Being balanced in ministry is important. We have to know when to apply what in order to be effective. It sounds complicated to the natural mind. However, I believe that the most effective ministry is one that is totally led by the Holy Spirit. When we seek the Lord for regarding how and when to minister, we can’t go wrong. So seek God first and ask Him to lead you in not just how to minister but in all that you do.

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