MODELING FOR MINISTRY
II CORINTHIANS 6:3-12
INTRODUCTION: Lots of people have made a career out of modeling. They adorn themselves in the latest fashion and entice people like me into purchasing what they are wearing. While some model clothing, some model ministry. I’ve had some role models down through the years. Dr. Fred Wood, Dr. Robert Orr, Dr. Raymond Boston and Rev. Charles Dinkins are only a few that quickly come to mind. From each of these I have learned much and to each of them I am greatly indebted.
Why am I talking about modeling? Because, in this passage, Paul serves as an excellent role model for all Christians. He has already spoken of his ministry, message and motives. Here he provides us with a model. Paul is a great model when it comes to:
I. Service (v.3-10)
Note in this passage that Paul, once again, speaks of his problems. He had already spoken of them in 1:3-11 and 4:7-12. Paul suffered physical, mental, spiritual and emotional abuse. He endured because of his love for Christ and the Corinthians. His service had brought plenty of scars. Look at three things here.
A. Paul’s aim (3-4): Paul’s aim was to be a good role model. He wanted to be a good example. Note the words “stumbling block”. Another meaning is “offense” which indicates striking one’s foot and causing him to stumble. Paul didn’t want anyone to stumble over him.
B. Paul’s pain (4-5, 8-10): Paul’s aim brought him pain. Underline some words Paul records. “Troubles” = pressures, afflictions, burdens. “Hardships” = necessities. “Distress” = calamities. “Beatings” = stripes. See Gal. 6:17. “Imprisonments”, “Riots” = mobbings. “Hard work” = working to the point of exhaustion. Read the rest and you get the picture of Paul’s pain.
C. Paul’s gain (6-7): God was not breaking but making Paul. Although his aim brought him pain, in the end it brought him gain. Out of his endurance grew purity, patience and power.
II. Separation (v.11-18)
Corinth was a city immersed in moral filth. The city was constantly trying to contaminate the church. Paul called for separation. When it comes to separation there are two extremes to be avoided – isolation and imitation. Somewhere between these two we need to build a foundation on which to establish a theology for separation. Paul makes a threefold appeal. He appeals for:
A. Adoration (11-13): “Opened hearts” = enlarged hearts. He appeals for “affection”.
B. Separation (14-18): Live a separated, holy life. If you yoke an ox with a donkey you end up with chaos and frustration! This verse can refer to marriage, dating, business affairs and even religion.
C. Application (7:1)
CONCLUSION: Paul serves an excellent role model. Let us walk in his footprints. He’s not modeling clothes but a lifestyle.
