where do you fit in the work of the lord?

Where do you fit in the work of the Where do you fit in the work of the Lord?Lord?

In this chapter we see the heart of the In this chapter we see the heart of the apostle Paul. He was thinking about two apostle Paul. He was thinking about two things. things.


The work of the Lord. The work of the Lord. (Rom 1:15; 1 Cor 9:16-19)(Rom 1:15; 1 Cor 9:16-19)


(Romans 1:15 NKJV)(Romans 1:15 NKJV) - So, as much as is - So, as much as is in me, in me, I am I am ready to preach the gospelready to preach the gospel to to you who are in Rome also.you who are in Rome also.


(1 Corinthians 9:16-19 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 9:16-19 NKJV) - For if I - For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for of, for necessity is laid upon menecessity is laid upon me; yes, ; yes, woe is woe is me if I do not preach the gospelme if I do not preach the gospel!! {17} {17} For if For if I do this willinglyI do this willingly, I have a reward; but if , I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship.a stewardship.


{18} {18} What is my reward then? That when I What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel.abuse my authority in the gospel. {19} {19} For For though I am free from all though I am free from all men, men, I have made I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the myself a servant to all, that I might win the more;more;


The needs of others. The needs of others. (Phil 2:3-4)(Phil 2:3-4)


(Philippians 2:3-4 NKJV)(Philippians 2:3-4 NKJV) - - Let Let nothing nothing be be done done through selfish ambition or conceit, through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind but in lowliness of mind let each esteem let each esteem others better than himselfothers better than himself.. {4} {4} Let each of Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, you look out not only for his own interests, but also but also for the interests of othersfor the interests of others..


Without a doubt Paul lived what he Without a doubt Paul lived what he preached. preached. (1 Cor 11:1)(1 Cor 11:1)


(1 Corinthians 11:1 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 11:1 NKJV) - Imitate me, - Imitate me, just as I also just as I also imitate imitate Christ.Christ.


In this we need to imitate the Apostle Paul.In this we need to imitate the Apostle Paul.


In this we need to imitate the Apostle Paul.In this we need to imitate the Apostle Paul. Each of us too must be interested in the Each of us too must be interested in the

progress of the Lord’s work.progress of the Lord’s work.


In this we need to imitate the Apostle Paul.In this we need to imitate the Apostle Paul. Each of us too must be interested in the Each of us too must be interested in the

progress of the Lord’s work.progress of the Lord’s work. We have our own particular talents and We have our own particular talents and

responsibilities (stewardship) given by the responsibilities (stewardship) given by the Lord. How are we doing? Lord. How are we doing?


Let us examine the areas in which we can Let us examine the areas in which we can improve the Lord’s work in our lives.improve the Lord’s work in our lives.

The Work of the Lord in Giving. (1-5)The Work of the Lord in Giving. (1-5)

(1 Corinthians 16:1-5 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 16:1-5 NKJV) - Now - Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also:Galatia, so you must do also: {2} {2} On the On the first first day day of the week let each one of you lay of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I prosper, that there be no collections when I come.come.


{3} {3} And when I come, whomever you And when I come, whomever you approve by approve by your your letters I will send to bear letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem.your gift to Jerusalem. {4} {4} But if it is fitting But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.that I go also, they will go with me. {5} {5} Now I will come to you when I pass Now I will come to you when I pass through Macedonia (for I am passing through Macedonia (for I am passing through Macedonia).through Macedonia).


This contribution was for the saints in This contribution was for the saints in Jerusalem.Jerusalem.


This contribution was for the saints in This contribution was for the saints in Jerusalem.Jerusalem.

““Now concerning” indicated another Now concerning” indicated another question by the Corinthians. question by the Corinthians. (7:1)(7:1)


He urged others churches to do this as well. He urged others churches to do this as well. (Rom 15:26; 2 Cor 8:1-2)(Rom 15:26; 2 Cor 8:1-2)


(Romans 15:26 NKJV)(Romans 15:26 NKJV) - For it pleased - For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalemthe saints who are in Jerusalem..


(2 Corinthians 8:1-2 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 8:1-2 NKJV) - Moreover, - Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on of God bestowed on the churches of the churches of MacedoniaMacedonia:: {2} {2} that in a great trial of that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty their deep poverty abounded in the riches of abounded in the riches of their liberalitytheir liberality..


This was the way other Christians could This was the way other Christians could assist another congregation during an assist another congregation during an emergency. This was never meant to be emergency. This was never meant to be permanent. permanent. (2 Cor 8:12-15)(2 Cor 8:12-15)


(2 Corinthians 8:12-15 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 8:12-15 NKJV) - For if - For if there is first a willing mind, there is first a willing mind, it is it is accepted accepted according to what one has, according to what one has, and and not not according to what he does not have.according to what he does not have. {13} {13} For For I do I do not not mean mean that that others should be others should be eased and you burdenedeased and you burdened;;


{14} {14} but by an equality, but by an equality, that that now at this now at this time time your abundance your abundance may supply may supply their lacktheir lack, , that their abundance also may supply your that their abundance also may supply your lack; that lack; that there may be equalitythere may be equality.. {15} {15} As it As it is written, “He who is written, “He who gathered gathered much had much had nothing left overnothing left over, and he who , and he who gathered gathered little little had no lackhad no lack.”.”


This is the pattern for all finances of the This is the pattern for all finances of the church. church.


God has a pattern for his church. God has a pattern for his church. (Heb 8:5-6; Col 3:17)(Heb 8:5-6; Col 3:17)


(Colossians 3:17 NKJV)(Colossians 3:17 NKJV) - And - And whatever whatever you do in word or deed, you do in word or deed, do do all in the name all in the name of the Lord Jesusof the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the , giving thanks to God the Father through Him.Father through Him.


(Hebrews 8:5-6 NKJV)(Hebrews 8:5-6 NKJV) - who serve the - who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, about to make the tabernacle. For He said, “See “See that that you make all things according to you make all things according to the pattern shown youthe pattern shown you on the mountain.” on the mountain.”


{6} {6} But now He has obtained a more But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises.established on better promises.


The church has collective responsibilities The church has collective responsibilities that involve money. that involve money. (2 Cor 11:8; Phil 4:15-16)(2 Cor 11:8; Phil 4:15-16)


(2 Corinthians 11:8 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 11:8 NKJV) - - I robbed I robbed other churchesother churches, taking wages , taking wages from them from them to to minister to you.minister to you.


(Philippians 4:15-16 NKJV)(Philippians 4:15-16 NKJV) - Now you - Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, Macedonia, no church shared with me no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you concerning giving and receiving but you onlyonly.. {16} {16} For even in Thessalonica you For even in Thessalonica you sent sent aid aid once and again for my necessities.once and again for my necessities.


Therefore the requirements of this passage Therefore the requirements of this passage will involve how a church raises money for will involve how a church raises money for all of its work.all of its work.


A day is specified and commanded. A day is specified and commanded. (1 Cor 16:2; Rev 1:10)(1 Cor 16:2; Rev 1:10)


1 Corinthians 16:2 - On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.


Revelation 1:10 - I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,


It is “every first day.” (NASV)It is “every first day.” (NASV)


It is “every first day.” (NASV)It is “every first day.” (NASV) This is NOT to be done at home but rather This is NOT to be done at home but rather

in the assembly on the first day of the in the assembly on the first day of the week.week.


Some have thought that a denial of the Some have thought that a denial of the treasury, the local eldership and thus any treasury, the local eldership and thus any required local collective responsibility required local collective responsibility would bring greater unity. Has it?would bring greater unity. Has it?


How do we give to the Lord?How do we give to the Lord?


How do we give to the Lord?How do we give to the Lord? How can we give as prospered?How can we give as prospered?


How do we give to the Lord?How do we give to the Lord? How can we give as prospered?How can we give as prospered? Does any amount please God?Does any amount please God?


How do we give to the Lord?How do we give to the Lord? How can we give as prospered?How can we give as prospered? Does any amount please God?Does any amount please God? Paul maintained care with his influence Paul maintained care with his influence

here.here.


How do we give to the Lord?How do we give to the Lord? How can we give as prospered?How can we give as prospered? Does any amount please God?Does any amount please God? Paul maintained care with his influence Paul maintained care with his influence

here.here. He has others selected from each church to He has others selected from each church to

take this money to its destination.take this money to its destination.


We would be wise to have the same care. We would be wise to have the same care. (2 Cor 8:19-21) (2 Cor 8:19-21)


(2 Corinthians 8:19-21 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 8:19-21 NKJV) - and not - and not only only that, that, but who was also but who was also chosen by the chosen by the churches to travel with us with this giftchurches to travel with us with this gift, , which is administered by us to the glory of which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and the Lord Himself and to show to show your ready your ready mind,mind, {20} {20} avoiding this: avoiding this: that anyone that anyone should blame us in this lavish giftshould blame us in this lavish gift which is which is administered by us;administered by us;


{21} {21} providing honorable thingsproviding honorable things, not only in , not only in the sight of the Lord, but the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of also in the sight of menmen..


((Ex. Ed Harrell in New Orleans)Ex. Ed Harrell in New Orleans)

The Work of the Lord in Opportunity (6-9)The Work of the Lord in Opportunity (6-9)

(1 Corinthians 16:6-9 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 16:6-9 NKJV) - And it may - And it may be that I will remain, or even spend the winter be that I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I go.journey, wherever I go. {7} {7} For I do not wish For I do not wish to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits.while with you, if the Lord permits. {8} {8} But I But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost.will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost. {9} {9} For a For a great and effective door has opened to me, and great and effective door has opened to me, and there are there are many adversaries.many adversaries.

The Work of the Lord in Opportunity The Work of the Lord in Opportunity (6-9)(6-9)

Paul was delayed in his coming. Paul was delayed in his coming.


He wanted to give them opportunity to He wanted to give them opportunity to repent! repent! (2 Cor 1:23; 2:1; 1 Cor 4:21(2 Cor 1:23; 2:1; 1 Cor 4:21))


(2 Corinthians 1:23 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 1:23 NKJV) - Moreover I - Moreover I call God as witness against my soul, that call God as witness against my soul, that to to spare you I came no more to Corinthspare you I came no more to Corinth..


(2 Corinthians 2:1 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 2:1 NKJV) - But I - But I determined this within myself, that determined this within myself, that I would I would not come again to you in sorrownot come again to you in sorrow..


Paul knew that there is wisdom in waiting Paul knew that there is wisdom in waiting after teaching another. This is an area of after teaching another. This is an area of judgment.judgment.



Paul sent Timothy ahead to give them Paul sent Timothy ahead to give them further opportunity!further opportunity!



Paul sent Timothy ahead to give them Paul sent Timothy ahead to give them further opportunity!further opportunity!

God works with us this way. God works with us this way. (Rev 2:21)(Rev 2:21)


(Revelation 2:21 NKJV)(Revelation 2:21 NKJV) - “And - “And I gave I gave her time to repenther time to repent of her sexual immorality, of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.and she did not repent.


Paul depended upon the Lord for his Paul depended upon the Lord for his opportunities.opportunities. (Jas 4:15; Heb 6:3; 1 Cor 4:19)(Jas 4:15; Heb 6:3; 1 Cor 4:19)


(1 Corinthians 4:19 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 4:19 NKJV) - But I will - But I will come to you shortly, come to you shortly, if the Lord willsif the Lord wills, and I , and I will know, not the word of those who are will know, not the word of those who are puffed up, but the power.puffed up, but the power.


(Hebrews 6:3 NKJV)(Hebrews 6:3 NKJV) - And this we will - And this we will do do if God permitsif God permits..


(James 4:15 NKJV)(James 4:15 NKJV) - Instead you - Instead you ought ought to to say, “say, “If the Lord willsIf the Lord wills, we shall live and do , we shall live and do this or that.”this or that.”


Paul knew when a door was opened. Paul knew when a door was opened. (8-9)(8-9)


Paul knew when a door was opened. Paul knew when a door was opened. (8-9)(8-9) Do we think like this? Do we think like this?

(Acts 14:27; 2 Cor 2:12; Col 4:3)(Acts 14:27; 2 Cor 2:12; Col 4:3)


(Acts 14:27 NKJV)(Acts 14:27 NKJV) - Now when they had - Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, reported all that God had done with them, and that and that He had opened the door of faith to He had opened the door of faith to the Gentilesthe Gentiles..


(2 Corinthians 2:12 NKJV)(2 Corinthians 2:12 NKJV) - - Furthermore, when I came to Troas to Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach preach Christ’s gospel, and Christ’s gospel, and a door was a door was opened to me by the Lordopened to me by the Lord,,


(Colossians 4:3 NKJV)(Colossians 4:3 NKJV) - meanwhile - meanwhile praying also for us, praying also for us, that God would open to that God would open to us a door for the wordus a door for the word, to speak the mystery , to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains,of Christ, for which I am also in chains,


What doors has the Lord opened for you What doors has the Lord opened for you last week?last week?

The Work of the Lord in Hospitality The Work of the Lord in Hospitality (10-12)(10-12)

(1 Corinthians 16:10-12 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 16:10-12 NKJV) - Now if - Now if Timothy comes, see that he may be with Timothy comes, see that he may be with you without fear; for he does the work of you without fear; for he does the work of the Lord, as I also the Lord, as I also do. {11} do. {11} Therefore let no Therefore let no one despise him. But send him on his one despise him. But send him on his journey in peace, that he may come to me; journey in peace, that he may come to me; for I am waiting for him with the brethren.for I am waiting for him with the brethren.


{12} {12} Now concerning Now concerning our our brother Apollos, I brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the strongly urged him to come to you with the brethren, but he was quite unwilling to brethren, but he was quite unwilling to come at this time; however, he will come come at this time; however, he will come when he has a convenient time.when he has a convenient time.


Timothy was very much dependent upon Timothy was very much dependent upon the church in his coming.the church in his coming.


Erastus was with Timothy and was from Erastus was with Timothy and was from Corinth. Corinth. (Rom 16:23, Acts 19:22)(Rom 16:23, Acts 19:22)


Romans 16:23 (NKJV)Romans 16:23 (NKJV) - Gaius, my host - Gaius, my host and and the hostthe host of the whole church, greets of the whole church, greets you. you. Erastus, the treasurer of the cityErastus, the treasurer of the city, greets , greets you, and Quartus, a brother. you, and Quartus, a brother.


Acts 19:22 (NKJV) Acts 19:22 (NKJV) - So he sent into - So he sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, him, Timothy and ErastusTimothy and Erastus, but he himself , but he himself stayed in Asia for a time.stayed in Asia for a time.


Timothy was in real danger of opposition Timothy was in real danger of opposition and shameful treatment. and shameful treatment. (1 Tim 4:12)(1 Tim 4:12)


1 Timothy 4:12 (NKJV)1 Timothy 4:12 (NKJV) - - Let no one Let no one despise your youthdespise your youth, but be an example to , but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.spirit, in faith, in purity.


exoutheneo ¤ AV - despise 6, set at nought exoutheneo ¤ AV - despise 6, set at nought 3, esteem lease 1, contemptible 1; 11 1) to 3, esteem lease 1, contemptible 1; 11 1) to make of no account, despise utterly.make of no account, despise utterly.


Today we face a real problem in Christian’s Today we face a real problem in Christian’s attitudes towards men who are supported to attitudes towards men who are supported to preach the gospel. Have you despised a preach the gospel. Have you despised a young preacher?young preacher?


Hospitality was a form of support to the Hospitality was a form of support to the workers of the Lord. workers of the Lord. (3 John 5-8(3 John 5-8))


(3 John 1:5-8 NKJV)(3 John 1:5-8 NKJV) - Beloved, you do - Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers,and for strangers, {6} {6} who have borne who have borne witness of your lovewitness of your love before the church. before the church. If If you you send them forwardsend them forward on their journey in a on their journey in a manner worthy of God, you will do well,manner worthy of God, you will do well,


{7} {7} because they went forth for His name’s because they went forth for His name’s sake, sake, taking nothing from the Gentilestaking nothing from the Gentiles.. {8} {8} We therefore We therefore ought to receive suchought to receive such, that we , that we may become may become fellow workers for the truthfellow workers for the truth..


Your home is a great tool for the Lord.Your home is a great tool for the Lord.


Your home is a great tool for the Lord.Your home is a great tool for the Lord. The Christian can speed the unity of The Christian can speed the unity of

brethren here. brethren here. (Acts 9:26-29)(Acts 9:26-29)


(Acts 9:26-29 NKJV)(Acts 9:26-29 NKJV) - And when Saul had - And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple.did not believe that he was a disciple. {27} {27} But But Barnabas took him and brought Barnabas took him and brought him him to the to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.


{28} {28} So he was with them at Jerusalem, So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going outcoming in and going out.. {29} {29} And And he he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesusspoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him.attempted to kill him.

The Work of the Lord in Encouragement The Work of the Lord in Encouragement (13-19)(13-19)

(1 Corinthians 16:13-19 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 16:13-19 NKJV) - Watch, - Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. {14} {14} Let all Let all that that you you do do be done with love.be done with love. {15} {15} I urge you, brethren; you know the I urge you, brethren; you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and firstfruits of Achaia, and that that they have they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints;saints;


{16} {16} that you also submit to such, and to that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with everyone who works and labors with us. us. {17} {17} I am glad about the coming of I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they what was lacking on your part they supplied.supplied. {18} {18} For they refreshed my spirit For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.men.


{19} {19} The churches of Asia greet you. The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.Lord, with the church that is in their house.


One of the best forms of encouragement is One of the best forms of encouragement is to be strong!to be strong!


One of the best forms of encouragement is One of the best forms of encouragement is to be strong!to be strong!

““Watch” - Indicates a wakefulness, not Watch” - Indicates a wakefulness, not being asleep. being asleep. (1 Cor 11:30; 15:33)(1 Cor 11:30; 15:33)


Acts 20:31 - "Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.


(1 Corinthians 15:33 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 15:33 NKJV) - Do not be - Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”habits.”


Are you steadfast? Are you steadfast? (1 Cor 15:2, 58)(1 Cor 15:2, 58)


(1 Corinthians 15:2 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 15:2 NKJV) - by which - by which also you are saved, if you also you are saved, if you hold fast that hold fast that wordword which I preached to you; unless you which I preached to you; unless you believed in vain.believed in vain.


(1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV(1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV) - Therefore, ) - Therefore, my beloved brethren, my beloved brethren, be steadfastbe steadfast, , immovable, always abounding in the work immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.in vain in the Lord.


Are you brave in His service? Are you brave in His service? (Eph 6:10)(Eph 6:10)


(Ephesians 6:10 NKJV)(Ephesians 6:10 NKJV) - Finally, my - Finally, my brethren, brethren, be strong in the Lordbe strong in the Lord and and in the in the power of His mightpower of His might..


““Be strong” – the one who conquers and Be strong” – the one who conquers and achieves victory!achieves victory!


One neglected talent we have is the ability One neglected talent we have is the ability to encourage.to encourage.


One neglected talent we have is the ability One neglected talent we have is the ability to encourage.to encourage.

What is your attitude towards teachers? What is your attitude towards teachers? (Gal 6:6; 2 Jn 5-8)(Gal 6:6; 2 Jn 5-8)


(Galatians 6:6 NKJV)(Galatians 6:6 NKJV) - Let him who is - Let him who is taught the word taught the word share in all good things share in all good things with him who teacheswith him who teaches..


3 John 1:8 - We therefore ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth.


To encourage another does not mean we are To encourage another does not mean we are promoting pride.promoting pride.


Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry.Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry.


Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry.Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry. Have you known anyone like this? Have you known anyone like this? (16:15)(16:15)


Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry.Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry. Have you known anyone like this? Have you known anyone like this? (16:15)(16:15) If you do then rally around them. Do not If you do then rally around them. Do not

assume that they have a constant flow of assume that they have a constant flow of encouragement and help.encouragement and help.


Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry.Stephanas, a man addicted to the ministry. Have you known anyone like this? Have you known anyone like this? (16:15)(16:15) If you do then rally around them. Do not If you do then rally around them. Do not

assume that they have a constant flow of assume that they have a constant flow of encouragement and help.encouragement and help.

You can encourage men in the field by You can encourage men in the field by sending help in the form of another man!sending help in the form of another man!

The Work of the Lord in Cooperation The Work of the Lord in Cooperation (20-24)(20-24)

(1 Corinthians 16:20-24 NKJV)(1 Corinthians 16:20-24 NKJV) - All the - All the brethren greet you. Greet one another with a brethren greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.holy kiss. {21} {21} The salutation with my own The salutation with my own hand; Paul’s.hand; Paul’s. {22} {22} If anyone does not love If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed. the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed. O Lord, come!O Lord, come! {23} {23} The grace of our Lord The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ Jesus Christ be be with you.with you. {24} {24} My love My love be be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.


We should give other Christians a “holy We should give other Christians a “holy kiss.” kiss.” (2 Cor 13:12; 1 Thess 5:26)(2 Cor 13:12; 1 Thess 5:26)


2 Corinthians 13:12 (NKJV) 2 Corinthians 13:12 (NKJV) - Greet one - Greet one another with a holy kiss.another with a holy kiss.


1 Thessalonians 5:26 (NKJV) 1 Thessalonians 5:26 (NKJV) - Greet all - Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.the brethren with a holy kiss.


It is critical that we constantly express our It is critical that we constantly express our love and appreciation to each other.love and appreciation to each other.


This kiss was a common form of greeting This kiss was a common form of greeting both in Old and New Testament. both in Old and New Testament.


This kiss was a common form of greeting This kiss was a common form of greeting both in Old and New Testament. both in Old and New Testament.

Old Testament Old Testament (2 Sam 15:5-6; 2 Sam 20:9-10)(2 Sam 15:5-6; 2 Sam 20:9-10)


2 Samuel 15:5-6 (NKJV) 2 Samuel 15:5-6 (NKJV) - And - And soso it was, it was, whenever anyone came near to bow down whenever anyone came near to bow down to him, that he would put out his hand and to him, that he would put out his hand and take him and kiss himtake him and kiss him. 6 In this manner . 6 In this manner Absalom acted toward all Israel who came Absalom acted toward all Israel who came to the king for judgment. So Absalom stole to the king for judgment. So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.the hearts of the men of Israel.


2 Samuel 20:9-10 (NKJV) 2 Samuel 20:9-10 (NKJV) - Then Joab said - Then Joab said to Amasa, “to Amasa, “AreAre you in health, my brother?” you in health, my brother?” And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him. 10 But Amasa did not right hand to kiss him. 10 But Amasa did not notice the sword that notice the sword that waswas in Joab’s hand. And in Joab’s hand. And he struck him with it in the stomach, and his he struck him with it in the stomach, and his entrails poured out on the ground; and he did entrails poured out on the ground; and he did not not strikestrike him again. Thus he died. him again. Thus he died.


New Testament – New Testament – (Mk 14:44; Lk 7:45)(Mk 14:44; Lk 7:45)


Mark 14:44 (NKJV) Mark 14:44 (NKJV) - Now His betrayer - Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, had given them a signal, saying, ““Whomever I kissWhomever I kiss, He is the One; seize , He is the One; seize Him and lead Him and lead HimHim away safely.” away safely.”


Luke 7:45 (NKJV) Luke 7:45 (NKJV) - - You gave Me no kissYou gave Me no kiss, , but this woman has not ceased to kiss My but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in.feet since the time I came in.


This kiss was a common form of greeting This kiss was a common form of greeting regardless of your standing before God.regardless of your standing before God.



Our kiss is “holy” in the manner and intent Our kiss is “holy” in the manner and intent of it.of it.



Our kiss is “holy” in the manner and intent Our kiss is “holy” in the manner and intent of it.of it.

Today we can practice a “holy” handshake, Today we can practice a “holy” handshake, hug, etc.hug, etc.


Consider the work of Aquila and Priscilla. Consider the work of Aquila and Priscilla. (16:19)(16:19)



They were with Paul when he left Cornith. They were with Paul when he left Cornith. (Acts 18:18)(Acts 18:18)



They were with Paul when he left Cornith. They were with Paul when he left Cornith. (Acts 18:18)(Acts 18:18)

They went to Rome and risked their lives They went to Rome and risked their lives for Paul. for Paul. (Rom 16:3-4)(Rom 16:3-4)


If we do not love the Lord then we are If we do not love the Lord then we are accursed! accursed! (16:22)(16:22)


anathema {an-ath'-em-ah} anathema {an-ath'-em-ah} Meaning: Meaning: 1) a 1) a thing set up or laid by in order to be kept thing set up or laid by in order to be kept 1a) specifically, an offering resulting from a 1a) specifically, an offering resulting from a vow, which after being consecrated to a god vow, which after being consecrated to a god was hung upon the walls or columns of the was hung upon the walls or columns of the temple, or put in some other conspicuous temple, or put in some other conspicuous place place


2) a thing devoted to God without hope of 2) a thing devoted to God without hope of being redeemed, and if an animal, to be being redeemed, and if an animal, to be slain; therefore a person or thing slain; therefore a person or thing doomed to destruction 2a) a curse 2b) a doomed to destruction 2a) a curse 2b) a man accursed, devoted to the direst of woes man accursed, devoted to the direst of woes Usage: Usage: AV - accursed 4, anathema 1, bind AV - accursed 4, anathema 1, bind under a great curseunder a great curse


2) a thing devoted to God without hope of 2) a thing devoted to God without hope of being redeemed, and if an animal, to be slain; being redeemed, and if an animal, to be slain; therefore a person or thing doomed to therefore a person or thing doomed to destruction 2a) a curse 2b) a man accursed, destruction 2a) a curse 2b) a man accursed, devoted to the direst of woes devoted to the direst of woes Usage: Usage: AV - AV - accursed 4, anathema 1, bind under a great accursed 4, anathema 1, bind under a great cursecurse

Can you think of another occasion where one is Can you think of another occasion where one is “accursed?” “accursed?” (Gal 1:6-10)(Gal 1:6-10)


Galatians 1:6-10 (NKJV) Galatians 1:6-10 (NKJV) - I marvel that you - I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7 which is not another; but there are some who 7 which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, what we have preached to you, let him be let him be accursedaccursed. .


9 As we have said before, so now I say 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, to you than what you have received, let him let him be accursedbe accursed. 10 For do I now persuade men, . 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.bondservant of Christ.


Where are you in the work of the Lord? Where are you in the work of the Lord? (Matt 24:44-51)(Matt 24:44-51)


(Matthew 24:44-51 NKJV)(Matthew 24:44-51 NKJV) “Therefore “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.coming at an hour you do not expect. {45} {45} “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season?household, to give them food in due season? {46} {46} “Blessed “Blessed is is that servant whom his that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.master, when he comes, will find so doing.


{47} {47} “Assuredly, I say to you that he will “Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.make him ruler over all his goods. {48} {48} “But if “But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’is delaying his coming,’ {49} {49} “and begins to “and begins to beat beat his his fellow servants, and to eat and drink fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards,with the drunkards, {50} {50} “the master of that “the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not servant will come on a day when he is not looking for looking for him him and at an hour that he is not and at an hour that he is not aware of,aware of,


{51} {51} “and will cut him in two and appoint “and will cut him in two and appoint him him his portion with the hypocrites. There his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

where do you fit in the work of the lord?

Documents

lords work

apostle paul

gospel of christ

doubt paul

responsibilities stewardship

churches of galatia

lowliness of mind

particular talents