Word for the Week...3---23 /4 / 2006

"Who goeth a warfare at any time at his own charges? Who planteth a vineyard and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?(v.8) Say I these things as a man?or saith not the law the same also?(v.9) For it is written in the law of Moses, thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care of oxen?(v.10) Or saith He it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth should be partaker of his hope.(v.11) If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we should reap your carnal things?(v.12) If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.(v13) Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?(v14) Even so hath The Lord ordained  that  they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.(v.15) But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things,that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.(v.16) For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for neccessity is laid upon me;yea, woe is unto me,if I preach not the gospel ! (v.17) For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward:but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.(v.18) What is my reward then? verily that when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge,, that I abuse not my power in the gospel." 

What is Paul saying here? Although he knew that the Law gave him access to provision, Paul willingly chose to forego his rights and privileges in The Gospel, so as to avoid the accusation of ' peddling ' the gospel for mere financial gain. Add  to this the fact that Paul was compelled to preach and teach the Word of God, by the Unction of The Holy Spirit and the picture is clear, concerning his Ministry. Too many, throughout the history of the Church, have abused their position, in order to 'feather their nests' . However, God is not mocked... their judgement awaits ! Paul said..."follow me as I follow Christ".. That is the way of sacrifce, unpopularity and hardship. Maybe some could forsake that '5 star hotel with room service', just long enough to catch a glimpse of the kind of life Paul lived, on the narrow path, that few find, which leads to Heaven and eternal life ! 

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