Sowing and Reaping

1 Cor. 9:12b

Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.

 

Paul rejoiced in those who came to Christ under his ministry. In fact, he called them his workmanship in the Lord and the seal of his apostleship in the Lord. It is the same way today with my pastor-teacher. I am his workmanship in the Lord!

 

He then developed the principle of caring for the Pastor/teacher. Should he minister starving? No. Even the soldier does not work at his own expense. "You shall not muzzle the ox when it treads the grain.." The Pastor, the missionary, and evangelists should be cared for since they are the ones who care for our souls, and who minister under exceptional responsibility and accountability.

 

He further said that this process of sowing and reaping was valid in the spiritual realm as well. The plowman plows in hope as does the thresher, the hope of sharing the crop. The fitting end of their endeavors. In the same way when the body of Christ is taught and cared for by specially gifted men [gifted and chosen by God], the body should show evidence of growth. What is sown should be reaped! Paul longed for their spiritual growth! In fact, he was willing to endure anything so that they might know the gospel of Christ. Such selflessness! His heart was totally God's.

Father,
Give a heart for the souls of others. Help me to grow in Your grace and knowledge. Enlarge my container.
In Jesus name,
Amen