Word@Work Luke116: Luke 8:1-3
Published: Wed, 06/02/10
Word@Work from BeaconLight
TRAINING ON THE JOB
Luke 8:1-3 After this, Jesus travelled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means. (NIV)
Jesus usually worked with an audience of those God had given Him. His ministry prior to the cross was shorter than 3 years; but it has continued right up until now by those who were trained. The Twelve were called to be taught to minister like Jesus, and then teach others to do the same (2 Timothy 2:2). The training course was like an apprenticeship in which the Bible teaching Jesus gave in the synagogues each Sabbath was followed up with practical ministry examples.
Others were eager to learn too. Luke mentions many believing women, from the demonised Mary Magdalene to the wife of a high-ranking civil servant, who were examples of the variety of grateful people whose lives had been transformed by Jesus. For Joanna, following Jesus was also a potentially dangerous lifestyle because her husband's boss had already executed John the Baptist for speaking the truth. But these women had one thing in common: they all helped to support Jesus and the band of disciples 'out of their own means'.
An essential part of any ministry training is to abandon the idea that it is a job for which others should pay. Christian leaders might be supported; but that is more of a gracious gift to be received with thanksgiving, than a right to expect or demand. Indeed, the starting point of all ministries is to serve because it is in our hearts to do so - not for what we might get out of it. Even on earth Jesus had nowhere He could call 'home' (Luke 9:58). These women did not seek anything for themselves, except the privilege of being able to learn as they served. Alas, even some who aspire to ministry do not understand this. People who serve the Lord faithfully will do so sacrificially. As with Jesus, the best teaching is often by example.
Prayer: Dear Lord God. I am amazed at your grace - coming into a greedy world and giving Yourself for people who despised Your grace. Thank You for opening my eyes to the value of Your sacrifice. Forgive me if I feel that others 'owe me something' for serving them in Jesus' Name, or begrudge the time and effort of ministry because there is little reward, response or recognition. Help me to learn afresh the liberty of giving freely so that others may understand Your grace, and see it demonstrated in the way I serve them. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages
Jesus usually worked with an audience of those God had given Him. His ministry prior to the cross was shorter than 3 years; but it has continued right up until now by those who were trained. The Twelve were called to be taught to minister like Jesus, and then teach others to do the same (2 Timothy 2:2). The training course was like an apprenticeship in which the Bible teaching Jesus gave in the synagogues each Sabbath was followed up with practical ministry examples.
Others were eager to learn too. Luke mentions many believing women, from the demonised Mary Magdalene to the wife of a high-ranking civil servant, who were examples of the variety of grateful people whose lives had been transformed by Jesus. For Joanna, following Jesus was also a potentially dangerous lifestyle because her husband's boss had already executed John the Baptist for speaking the truth. But these women had one thing in common: they all helped to support Jesus and the band of disciples 'out of their own means'.
An essential part of any ministry training is to abandon the idea that it is a job for which others should pay. Christian leaders might be supported; but that is more of a gracious gift to be received with thanksgiving, than a right to expect or demand. Indeed, the starting point of all ministries is to serve because it is in our hearts to do so - not for what we might get out of it. Even on earth Jesus had nowhere He could call 'home' (Luke 9:58). These women did not seek anything for themselves, except the privilege of being able to learn as they served. Alas, even some who aspire to ministry do not understand this. People who serve the Lord faithfully will do so sacrificially. As with Jesus, the best teaching is often by example.
Prayer: Dear Lord God. I am amazed at your grace - coming into a greedy world and giving Yourself for people who despised Your grace. Thank You for opening my eyes to the value of Your sacrifice. Forgive me if I feel that others 'owe me something' for serving them in Jesus' Name, or begrudge the time and effort of ministry because there is little reward, response or recognition. Help me to learn afresh the liberty of giving freely so that others may understand Your grace, and see it demonstrated in the way I serve them. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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