Ushering In His Excellence Pt.1

Ushering in His Excellence pt.1 Text: I Corinthians 2:1-5

Paul could have spoken with his great oratorical skills and drawn some attention to himself; he sure had the resume’ to do it. But he had determined that there was One in whom he served that had the ability to give the listeners everything they needed! Paul understood that his own cleverness brought him as far as the Damascus road, and then Jesus took over, and brought total salvation and deliverance!

I. Tonight, I want to discuss one of the most important ministries in the local church. It would fall under the category of the ministry of helps! (Ushering.)

A. There is such a need for excellence in everything we do! In-fact, if we really believe we are doing what we do for king Jesus how can we do anything halfway! I Corinthians 14:37-40 If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38 But if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39 Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues. 40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

B. I believe and know, that God wants to do even greater things here at Crane Eater, but if we won’t serve Him with excellence now, why should He in-trust us with more latter?

C. Paul understood that He was limited, but the Spirit of God working through him wasn’t! I Corinthians 2:2 For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

D. Until we come to this conclusion, that Jesus is everything; we won’t be happy!

E. In summation, Paul is saying in I Corinthians 2:1-5 Nothing matters but Christ coming into you, and making you like Him! I Corinthians 12: 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

F. People called to the ministry of helps have basically the same burden and vision for sharing the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ as the pastor or teacher!

G. I Corinthians 12: 1, 4-7 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: 4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.

H. Listen, the usher is no longer just a “ bucket passer.” His duties are much more diversified!

I. I Corinthians 12: 14-18 For in fact the body is not one member but many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? 18 But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased.

J. An effective usher truly becomes “a servant of all!” A united usher team sets an atmosphere so charged with reverence and sensitivity that the Spirit of God can have His perfect way!

K. The usher team must come together in complete harmony, unity, love, and excellence as never before to keep pace with God’s ongoing work!

L. The usher’s team is not a one-man show! The head usher will develop and build up his team. He lets them know that they are God’s best! He guides them, and is always a role model! Luke 8:1 Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him,

M. If Jesus needed the assistance and help of His disciples, how much more do pastor’s need help? Pastor’s today must be totally free to do one thing- to be about the Father’s business!

N. The head usher will delegate responsibilities. He teaches and trains each usher for his or her assignments. He ensures that the pastor will be able to minister without disturbances. His team will always be alert of any needs through out the church. They serve as public relations. They assist and help people find a seat. They direct the receiving of offerings and keep God’s money secure. They assist directly in every communion services. They flow with the pastor in the laying on of hands. They help with the altar call. The head usher supervises his team in handling disturbances involving crying babies, small children, and out-of-order adults! They make sure that every person who comes leaves fulfilled! Ushers always wear a smile!