In what ways can we ensure our actions align with Paul's integrity in ministry? Paul’s Heart in the Verse “Did I exploit you through anyone I sent you?” (2 Corinthians 12:17) Paul places his entire team under the searchlight of transparency. No hidden fees, no secret agendas, no benefit skimmed off the top. Key Marks of Gospel Integrity • No exploitation: ministry never becomes a means of personal gain • Shared accountability: even emissaries reflect the same upright standard • Open books and open lives: nothing cloaked, nothing manipulated • Christ-centered motive: service flows from love, not profit Supporting Witness from the Rest of Scripture • 2 Corinthians 1:12: “We conducted ourselves… with simplicity and godly sincerity.” • Acts 20:33-35: Paul worked with his own hands so as not to covet anyone’s silver or gold. • 1 Thessalonians 2:3-5: “No pretext for greed; God is our witness.” • Titus 2:7-8: “In everything set them an example by doing what is good… show integrity.” • Proverbs 11:3: “The integrity of the upright guides them.” • 1 Peter 5:2-3: shepherds serve “not for dishonest gain, but eagerly.” Concrete Practices for Today • Cultivate transparent finances – Provide clear, accessible reports – Use multiple signatories for disbursements • Embrace servant leadership – Seek opportunities to give rather than receive – Accept obscurity over self-promotion • Maintain doctrinal and moral consistency – Teach exactly what Scripture says, no selective edits – Live the teaching at home and in public • Submit to wise oversight – Invite elder or board review of decisions – Welcome correction without defensiveness • Keep work and compensation separate – Avoid linking faithfulness to honoraria or perks – Demonstrate willingness to labor with one’s own hands when needed • Foster a culture of witness-confirmed behavior – Travel and minister with trusted partners – Let others handle offerings to remove suspicion • Guard the heart daily – Immerse in the Word and prayer – Confess sin quickly and specifically – Remember that God examines motives, not just actions The Visible Fruit of an Honorable Walk • Congregations grow in trust and unity • Outsiders witness credibility rather than hypocrisy • Resources reach the needy rather than lining pockets • The gospel advances unhindered by scandal • God receives the glory that belongs to Him alone |
    |