Advancing Encouragement By:
Bishop James Jr. Hairston

Acts: 20:24: But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Do everyone that believes in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior have a ministry? Is ministry only for the Pastor, Evangelist, Prophet, minister, Deacon, preacher, teacher and you can even say laymen? I would say a ministry does not have to be led by the office of a minister, no matter how small or large it may be. Here is an example from the first fruits of Achaia in the house of Stephanas, 1Corinthians 16:15 addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints or to minister to the Saints. I do believe for if it was to serve the poor, to give or fund the Apostles missionary journeys, to the teaching and spreading of the gospel they were involved heavily in the ministry to the success of it all! In verse 16 of 1Corinthians 16, Paul said that the house of Stephanas submitted themselves to the work to help and labor in the gospel. Not only that whatever was lacking in the ministry they supplied it in Jesus name, 1Corinthians 16:17. Here are three people including Stephanas I believe that are from his house; Fortunatus, Achaicus and Stephanas himself whom I believe are not officers in the Church but with willingness of heart and great zeal took it upon themself to get involved with the ministry of the Saints. This house is what I call Laymen in the Kingdom of God, to get involved wherever is needed from teaching, serving, giving and supporting the vision of the ministry in Jesus name. Moreover, when I observe Acts 20: 24 I believe Paul is saying in-spite of the bonds and afflictions, verse 23 and the Holy Ghost witnessing by the power of God that brought me out did not keep me from my purpose and the plan of God to the point that it is not about me or what I went through but it is about completing the call of God with great joy (read favor over enemies). In addition, the ministry is prospering because of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is being preached and taught of the grace of God in Jesus Name. What is it in your heart that has a burning desire to get involved in the ministry? What is that you love doing for Jesus Christ no matter how small or large? How do you like helping others and in what capacity are you willing to get started? Get ready to step out on faith to catch the vision of God’s great ministry all over the world where He has a small part for you to get involved in Jesus name…

James Jr. Hairston