Sermon Central
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A Privileged Partnership
Contributed by Joel Bernardino on Oct 14, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: As believers, we are called not only to follow Christ but to partner with Him and with one another in His mission. It’s an amazing thought — the Almighty God invites us to be His co-laborers!
A PRIVILEGED PARTNERSHIP
Pastor Joel Bernardino – October 14, 2025
Introduction
As believers, we are called not only to follow Christ but to partner with Him and with one another in His mission.
It’s an amazing thought — the Almighty God invites us to be His co-laborers!
The apostle Paul reminds us of this in:
1 Corinthians 3:6, 8–9 – “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow… Whether they plant or water, they work as a team… We are God’s fellow workers.”
We are not competitors; we are co-laborers.
We’re not working for our own glory, but together for the glory of God.
Our mission is clear:
“Go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19)
Making disciples of a few people can already be challenging. But making disciples of all nations? That’s impossible alone — that’s why we need partners.
We need each other to spread the Gospel, to help others fulfill their calling, and to carry out the mission of Jesus.
Note: Partnering with other believers who share our vision is a wise and God-ordained way to accomplish more together than we ever could alone.
1. We Are Working Together as Instruments of God
We are partners in carrying out Jesus’ mission.
Paul and Apollos had different tasks — one planted, the other watered — but both were serving the same Lord.
In ministry, we need each other because the mission is bigger than any one of us.
• Partners help share the load, making it more manageable.
• Partners bring unique skills and experiences, enriching the ministry.
• Partners provide emotional support, encouragement, and accountability.
• Partnerships expand our reach, allowing us to impact more people.
Illustration:
A Chinese proverb says, “We can carry a heavy load if we all cooperate.”
Even the heaviest log can be lifted when everyone lends a shoulder.
When Jesus sent His disciples, He sent them two by two (Mark 6:7).
He knew that ministry is not meant to be done alone.
Think of Paul and Timothy — one mentoring, one learning, yet both growing and serving together (Philippians 1:1–11).
They modeled partnership — not competition, but collaboration.
Aim:
Our main focus is not on what we can do, but on what Christ can do through us together.
When we work together, we exalt Jesus and advance His Kingdom.
Note:
Through partnership, the workload becomes lighter, the ministry becomes stronger, and the outcome becomes greater — for God’s glory.
2. We Have a Shared Responsibility to Share the Gospel
We are partners in spreading the Good News.
We can’t do it alone. We need a team.
Each of us plays a unique role in God’s plan.
Some are prayer warriors — standing in the gap.
Some are senders — supporting missions financially.
Some are goers — those who go and serve in the field.
Some are encouragers — strengthening others through words and presence.
Together, we make a complete team.
When we combine our gifts and efforts:
• Our strength multiplies.
• Our reach widens.
• Our impact deepens.
Illustration:
Think of a choir — one voice alone may sound nice, but when many voices blend together in harmony, the music becomes powerful and beautiful.
That’s what happens when the church serves together — we become a symphony of grace that draws people to Jesus.
Partnership also allows for different roles and diverse perspectives.
One may handle logistics, another discipleship, another outreach — and together, the body functions as one.
Even our differences are valuable!
Our variety of ideas and methods helps us discover the best ways to reach people for Christ.
When we support and encourage one another, even the smallest effort becomes significant.
A little from many hearts can achieve something great for God.
Application:
To our volunteers, your presence and participation matter.
You may think, “I’m just setting up chairs” or “I’m only helping with food.”
But God sees it as part of the bigger picture of His Kingdom work.
Without your help, the mission cannot move forward as effectively.
Our unity is a living testimony to the world.
When people see Christians working joyfully and harmoniously, Christ is glorified.
Psalm 133:1 – “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
3. Our Shared Purpose Unites Us as Partners
We are partners in a common purpose.
Our mission is not about titles or recognition — it’s about touching lives.
We serve the least, the lost, and the last — the very people Jesus loves and cares for.
Matthew 25:40 – “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
Every time you volunteer, you are serving Jesus Himself.
Every time you help someone in need, you are partnering with Christ in His ministry of love.
