The Charge: 2 Timothy 4.1-8

This Sunday we get to do something really special in our time together at Woodland. We get to ordain Michael Boehnke, our family ministries pastor.

In recognizing God’s grace and calling on Michael’s life we get to consider Jesus’ charge to each of us. That’s found in 2 Timothy 4.1-8:

Preach the word: be ready in season and out of season, reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching … (4.2)

Sure, Michael is unique. He’s studied and been examined and given his life to leadership in the church in a special way. We’re going to honor him for that. But, Jesus’ basic charge to Michael is no different from Jesus’ charge to any of His followers: Tell people about Him (JESUS), so that they will love it when He (JESUS) comes!

Michael is a herald delivering the message about Jesus. You and I are herald’s delivering the same good news. The charge is not to organize or recruit or plan or program or become specialists or experts. The charge is to take people to Jesus, so that (after they’ve believed) they’ll be delighted when Jesus returns.

Look at how our passage ends: Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing (:8).

Yes, JESUS’S coming. That’s what we’re all looking forward to. And speaking of Jesus, and telling others about Jesus, and leaning in toward our meeting with Him—that’s the Father’s charge and calling for each of us.

So, celebrate Michael, but get excited about Jesus. And, I’m so looking forward to seeing each of you this Sunday, at Woodland.

Questions to consider with others:

  1. How is today’s message not just for pastors (like Michael)?
  2. Why is it so important that the gospel (all that is ours in Christ) be delivered verbally?
  3. How does it help us to know that we are neither more nor less than heralds of the gospel?
  4. How does Michael’s ordination encourage you today?

 

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