In what ways can we ensure faithfulness in our ministry like Barnabas and Saul? Setting the Scene “When Barnabas and Saul had fulfilled their mission, they returned from Jerusalem, taking with them John, also called Mark.” (Acts 12:25) Learning from Their Completion They did not leave Jerusalem until: - The aid offering was delivered (Acts 11:29-30). - The assignment God gave was “fulfilled.” - They reported back, maintaining accountability with the believers who sent them (cf. Acts 14:26-27). Key Marks of Faithful Ministry • Clear commissioning – Acts 13:2-3: the Holy Spirit speaks, the church lays hands. • Dependence on the Word – Acts 13:5: “They proclaimed the word of God.” – 2 Timothy 4:2: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” • Teamwork and mentoring – Bringing John Mark along invested in the next generation (Acts 12:25; 2 Timothy 2:2). • Perseverance through hardship – Acts 14:22: “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” – Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in well-doing.” • Accountability and reporting – Acts 14:27: they gathered the church to declare “all that God had done with them.” • Spirit-led flexibility – Acts 16:6-10: willing to change plans when the Spirit redirects. • Integrity in stewardship – 1 Corinthians 4:2: “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Practical Steps to Faithfulness Today 1. Seek God’s specific direction before launching a work. 2. Saturate every assignment with Scripture; measure success by obedience, not visible results. 3. Serve with others; invite younger believers to watch and learn. 4. Finish what God assigns, even when opposition intensifies. 5. Keep supporters informed; celebrate God’s work, not personal achievement. 6. Let the Spirit close or open doors without clinging to personal plans. 7. Guard funds, time, and testimony with transparent integrity. Encouragement for Your Journey Acts 12:25 shows Barnabas and Saul returning only after the job was completed. Follow their pattern: start by God’s call, stay until the mission is truly finished, and return ready for the next assignment. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). |
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