Ministry is Service

We must look beyond all the glamor that has become associated with the office and title “Pastor” and remember that ministry is work.

The word in Greek is “diakonia” and literally means to attend to something, as a servant. It’s from the word “diakonos” which also implies, to run on an errand. Basically, you get the idea that this isn’t about glamor, it’s service. You know how a waiter comes to ask for your order, serve you the dishes, stays there to take any complaints you may have and then possibly clear the table when you’re done, that’s the idea ministry communicates! All your efforts, time and energy spend on those you are serving, the flock of God. The object has always been and would always remain the flock.

Jesus would have it no other way. Several times, he reminded his disciples that in his kingdom, leading was going to be by serving. And he proved that himself by the life he lived and the death he died for all mankind, truly a servant-king. Matt 20:25–28

And while it’s true that honor is conferred to those who serve i.e. ministry, a minister must never forget that he is a servant. You labor in the word because those you serve need to grow 1 Tim 4:16. You labor in prayers for those you serve Col 4:12. Even when they seem unresponsive or unappreciative of your efforts, you continue with them. Why? Because God placed you as such Acts 20:28. And when we understand that this is the example Christ left behind, we begin to realize what a privilege this is. To love as He loved, to give as He gave, to serve as He served.

Now you would see why Heb 13:17 tells us to make the life of the minister easier. The writer says they “watch” over our souls. That word literally means “to stay awake”, again showing the demands of the work. If you think it’s all about dishing out revelation, demonstrating power, gathering a crowd every Sunday, you really are mistaken. It’s about lives!

The next time you think of ministry, think of service. Not the fame and glamor that might be prevalent today but the efforts put into the lives of men, to see them mature and fully formed in all the will of God. Do this job faithfully, know the gravity of the work. It’s not by the “sirs” and “mas” or “pastor” that would be attached to your name. You know who called you to this office and you know you would give account. At the end of the day, the fruits of ministry, what would count for eternity are the lives that you served. Phil 4:1, 1 Thess 2:19–20

Once again, what a privilege. Every single effort, worth it.

I call you blessed.

Daniel Babalola.

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