I have found it very interesting to work my way through Second Corinthians eleven and begin to digest what the apostle gives us as an example and even a pattern for authentic Christian ministry. I have struggled for years with what to me has been a difference in ministry as it was presented to me as a student in the ‘60s and what has been written and promoted since that time. Most of what I see today finds it roots in business administration disciplines. And this change is accounted for and defended with the words of Paul, “do all things decently and in order”. However it seems to me that far more is advocated and inserted into these models than can find its authority in the Bible. Two things that continue to shape my thinking about these matters are first, that we as ministers are servants and not lords.
2 Corinthians 4:5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
The second matter that I find is that the real model of the church is that of a family and not a business. In this matter I would cite that Paul says that a primary qualification for a pastor is his ability as a father.
1 Timothy 3:4-5 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
In Second Corinthians I think we find much of what characterizes Christian ministry today that Paul condemned in his day. I will cite just one section:
2 Corinthians 11:20 For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.
Paul called these men false apostles and deceitful workers. Above all a church ought to be a pleasant, comfortable place of harbor and fellowship. It is not a business struggling for some kind of community recognition.
