How does knowing God has "many people" affect our ministry efforts? The Setting: Corinth—A Timely Word Acts 18:9-10: “One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: ‘Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one will lay a hand on you to harm you, because I have many people in this city.’” Who Are the “Many People”? • Men and women whom the Lord has already determined to draw to Himself (John 6:37). • Individuals not yet converted but foreknown by God (Romans 8:29-30). • Hidden believers we have not met—God’s remnant, as in Elijah’s day (1 Kings 19:18). Why This Truth Transforms Our Ministry Courage in Hostile Settings • Opposition loses its terror when God guarantees fruit (Acts 18:9; Psalm 27:1). • We speak boldly, knowing persecution cannot thwart God’s plan (2 Timothy 2:9). Persistence When Results Seem Sparse • “My word… will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:11). • We keep sowing seed; God has already prepared soil (Mark 4:14-20). Expectation of Harvest • Jesus: “I have other sheep that are not of this fold” (John 10:16). • The fields are white; laborers pray and go (Matthew 9:37-38). Humility and Dependence • Salvation belongs to the Lord (Jonah 2:9). • We plant and water; God gives the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Joyful Partnership with God • Every conversion proves His promise true (Luke 15:10). • We enter the thrill of gathering His family (Revelation 7:9-10). Practical Ways to Minister in Light of God’s Hidden Army • Start conversations confidently—someone you meet may already be under conviction. • Persist in difficult places; the next hearer could be part of the “many.” • Pray specifically for God to unveil those He has prepared (Colossians 4:3). • Train others, knowing God not only saves individuals but raises coworkers (2 Timothy 2:2). • Celebrate each sign of interest; it signals God’s unseen hand at work. Key Scriptures Echoing the Same Assurance • John 6:37: “Everyone the Father gives Me will come to Me.” • 2 Timothy 2:19: “The Lord knows those who are His.” • Revelation 5:9: “You purchased for God persons from every tribe and tongue.” Summary: Ministry Energized by God’s Promise Knowing the Lord already has “many people” infuses us with courage, endurance, expectancy, humility, and joy. We labor, confident that His unbreakable word guarantees a harvest, and every step of obedience helps gather the people He has already claimed for His glory. |
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