Sustaining a Lifetime of Ministry
Progress (The Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven)
So far we’ve seen many of the challenges we will face in ministry: a mixed reception to the Word of God, ministry in an increasingly evil world, and an enemy who aims to destroy God’s work. How can we bear fruit amidst such challenges? Pastor Colin closes this course with encouragement from two parables about the gospel progress that God promises.
Sustaining a Lifetime of Ministry - Progress (The Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven) - Teaching (audio)
Discussion Questions:
- Proper interpretation of the Bible has huge practical implications! What are the consequences of seeing these parables as ‘Too Hot’ (a prophecy of unrivaled success)?
- What are the consequences of seeing these parables as ‘Too Cold’ (a warning of relentless decline)?
- “Christ’s kingdom has a small beginning but it will lead to a great outcome.” How is this true? And how does this help you persevere through challenges to your faith and ministry?
- What is most discouraging for you about your progress as a Christian? How does it encourage you that the leaven of God’s Spirit is working in you?
- 1 Corinthians 15:58 says, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” According to this verse, how should we respond to the promise that our labor is not in vain? What do you need to grow in steadfastness?
Respond to this teaching in prayer:
- Praise God for the progress that He promises in ministry and your life!
- Confess how you may forget to trust His sovereign hand in your life or ministry.
- Ask God for a steadfast, immovable heart to always abound in His work for His glory.
Read these articles to grow in ministry:
Ask God to Send Gospel Workers by Laura Eder
7 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Fear Evangelism by Kevin Halloran
Congratulations on finishing our Sustaining a Lifetime of Ministry course!
Next Session
Take the First Step to Open Your Bible
Join 35,000+ people who get ‘Open Weekly’. Every Wednesday, you’ll get hand-picked resources designed to inspire, encourage, and challenge you in opening your Bible.
Do You Need Hope This Easter Season?
Watch the powerful story of the thief on the cross today
The thief’s story of salvation is one that begins, literally, on the brink of hell. The pain this man had experienced throughout his life fueled his hate for God, so much so that he detested the man hanging there on the cross beside him. But then, for the first time, he began to fear God.
If you’ve found yourself in a similar place, there is hope. Hope because heaven is real, hope because we have a Savior, and hope because all you have to do is accept Jesus’ invitation.
Join Pastor Colin In-Person!
Do you want to understand the Bible story? 📖
Pastor Colin Smith’s upcoming event FLY THROUGH THE BIBLE, is a high-altitude exploration of the entire Bible story. This brief introduction to the Bible will help you grasp who God is, who you are, who Jesus is, and what He offers to you!
Coming to 4 cities this fall:
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Twin Cities, Minnesota
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Indianapolis, Indiana
Will you join us?
It looks like you're viewing the site from outside the US. Click below to visit our UK site or close this pop-up to view the international site.