What does "the Lord worked with them" teach about divine partnership in ministry? Setting the Scene Mark 16:20: “And they went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed His word by the signs that accompanied it.” What the Phrase Literally States • “The Lord worked with them” declares that Jesus, now risen and ascended, remained actively engaged in the disciples’ ministry. • The verb “worked with” (synergeō) pictures cooperative labor—two parties side-by-side accomplishing one task. Divine–Human Partnership Unpacked • God never sends His people alone; He personally accompanies and empowers every assignment. • The same Christ who gave the Great Commission (Mark 16:15) immediately took responsibility for its fulfillment. • Ministry success flows from Christ’s presence, not mere human skill. Supporting Passages • Acts 14:3: “So they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who affirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.” • Hebrews 2:3-4: God “confirmed [the gospel] by signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit.” • 1 Corinthians 3:9: “For we are God’s fellow workers.” Practical Takeaways for Today • Expectation of Presence: – Wherever we proclaim Scripture faithfully, Christ is present and active. • Confidence in His Power: – Results do not rest on persuasive words alone (1 Corinthians 2:4-5) but on divine activity. • Prayerful Dependence: – Since He works with us, continual reliance on Him through prayer is essential. • Humble Collaboration: – Ministry is never a solo performance; we serve as instruments while He supplies life-changing power. Signs and Confirmation • In Mark 16:20, supernatural signs authenticated the message. • While methods of confirmation may vary today, God still validates His Word—through transformed lives, answered prayer, and, at times, overt miracles. Encouragement for Every Servant • Ordinary believers can step out with extraordinary boldness, knowing the risen Lord remains the active Partner in every gospel endeavor. |
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