1 Corinthians 9:16, 17 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid on me; yes, woe is to me, if I preach not the gospel!… I. THE TRUE MINISTER BECOMES SUCH NOT BY MERE CHOICE OR PREDILECTION. Preaching the gospel is: 1. Not easy. 2. Often disheartening. 3. Its joys come rather after triumph over natural inclination. 4. Too responsible to be undertaken without authority. II. THE TRUE MINISTER BECOMES SUCH BECAUSE OF: 1. God's command. Uttered to heart - a "Divine call," corroborated by suitability, confirmed by blessing on labours 2. Claims of fellow creatures. 3. Conscientious promptings towards service. III. THOSE CALLED TO THE MINISTRY DARE NOT REFUSE. "Woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!" To refuse would involve: 1. God's displeasure. 2. The blood of our fellows resting upon us. 3. The nonemployment of gifts, and the consequences of this. - H. Parallel Verses KJV: For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! |
    |