10. Authentic Christian Ministry – Discussion Starters
- “The conversion of sinners and their sanctification through the truth is the strongest proof a minister can have that God has called him to the ministry” -Ellen White. Does this refer only to evangelization and baptisms? If you think it is more broad than that, what else does it entail?
- Sunday’s lesson says “The experience of salvation of the church in Corinth is the evidence of Paul’s authentic ministry.” What evidence do you see happening in your church right now that is consistent with the presence of an authentic Christ-centered ministry?
- What might be signs of an inauthentic or, perhaps, merely “shallow” ministry? What are the signs you might see in the ministers? What are the signs you might see in the congregation?
- Paul says, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not from us.” 2 Cor 4:7. Can you share time where you tried to do ministry without the all surpassing power coming from God ,and it was not particularly successful? Conversely, can you share a time where the all surpassing power of God did so much more than your ‘jar of clay’ could’ve ever imagined?
- Our author points out that “the ministry of reconciliation” is an often overlooked sign of authentic Christ-directed ministry. Can you share a testimony of a time that an unlikely reconciliation occurred that just had to be the direct result of the Holy Spirit’s work?
- Paul says that our reconciliation with God means separation from harmful influences. “Therefore, come out from them and be separate, says the Lord.” -2 Cor 6:17. A common criticism of Christians in our culture is that Christians are intolerant and judgmental. What is your response to this criticism? What examples do you see where you actually agree with this criticism of Christians? What examples do you see where you completely disagree with this criticism of Christians? How do you see Jesus navigating this issue—the One who avoided all sin, yet said it was the precisely the sick who needed a doctor?
- Paul perfectly expresses the paradox that Jesus promised would be true–His yoke is easy, but we will carry a cross. Paul speaks about joy in the midst of hardship. Can you share an experience of “joy in the midst of hardship?” How is Christian “joy in the midst of hardship” different from the worldly, “I just want to be happy?”
