HELPERS IN THE CHURCH – PASTOR MARTIN CHILDS JR. D. MIN.

TEXT: ACTS 6:1-15

TITLE: HELPERS IN THE CHURCH

WE NEED HELPERS

1. To assist in meeting the needs of humanity
   1. Good reputation (outside)
   2. Full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom (inside)
2. Note the emphasis on Spiritual Attributes versus Physical Abilities
3. Divisions of Assignments, not Significance

QUALITIES OF THE HELPERS

1. Full of Faith
2. Full of the Holy Spirit
3. Why do I need these qualities?
4. Full of Faith
5. Full of the Holy Spirit

COMMITMENT OF THE HELPERS

1. Because Stephen was Full of Faith
2. Because Stephen was Full of Power (the Holy Spirit) ­
3. Stephen did Great Wonders and Signs among the people
4. Stephen ministered above and beyond
5. How can I fulfill my ministry to the fullest” (John 6:22-40)
   1. Pleasure – “For Me” (vv. 26-27)
      1. Not necessarily a negative motivation – we receive pleasure from it
      2. When we are motivated by pleasure, we are the direct benefactors
      3. Problems with ministry motivated by Pleasure
         1. I may not be committed to the overall goal and greater good
         2. When the Pleasure ceases, my ministry ceases
      4. Passion – “For You and Me” (vv. 28-66)
         1. Not necessarily a negative motivation – we are passionate about it
         2. When we motivated by pleasure, it is less selfish and more inclusive than Pleasure
         3. Problems with ministry motivated by Passion
            1. I commit to the overall goal and greater good because I benefit
            2. When the Passion diminishes, my ministry diminishes
         4. Purpose – “For Jesus” (vv. 67-71)
            1. I understand that this is what I was “Created” to do
            2. There is an “Inner Urge” (Dr. Trinette NcCray)
            3. There is a “Calling” upon my life to fulfill this ministry
            4. I am “Willing” to go above and beyond to fulfill this ministry

Challenge for the Week: How is God calling me to help in my church?