Topical Bible: Christian Minister: Called: Men of God

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The term "Men of God" is a designation found throughout the Bible, referring to individuals who are called and set apart for divine purposes. These individuals are often prophets, leaders, or ministers who serve as intermediaries between God and His people, delivering His messages and guiding His followers according to His will.

Biblical References

The phrase "Man of God" is used in various contexts in the Scriptures, often highlighting the individual's role as a messenger or servant of the Lord. One of the earliest mentions is found in Deuteronomy 33:1, where Moses is referred to as a "man of God" as he blesses the Israelites: "This is the blessing that Moses, the man of God, pronounced upon the Israelites before his death."

In the historical books, the term is frequently associated with prophets. For example, in 1 Kings 17:24, the widow of Zarephath acknowledges Elijah as a man of God after he miraculously revives her son: "Then the woman said to Elijah, 'Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is truth.'"

Elisha, the successor of Elijah, is also repeatedly called a man of God. In 2 Kings 4:9, the Shunammite woman recognizes Elisha's divine calling: "She said to her husband, 'Behold, now I know that this is a holy man of God who passes by us continually.'"

Characteristics and Responsibilities

Men of God are characterized by their faithfulness, obedience, and dedication to God's commands. They are often called to deliver difficult messages, perform miracles, and lead God's people through challenging times. Their lives are marked by a deep relationship with God, enabling them to discern His will and act accordingly.

In the New Testament, the concept of being a man of God extends to Christian ministers and leaders who are called to shepherd the church and teach sound doctrine. The Apostle Paul, in his letters to Timothy, emphasizes the qualities and responsibilities of such individuals. In 1 Timothy 6:11, Paul exhorts Timothy: "But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness."

Role in the Church

Men of God in the Christian context are often seen as pastors, elders, and teachers who are entrusted with the spiritual oversight of the congregation. They are expected to model Christ-like behavior, preach the Gospel, and equip the saints for the work of ministry. Their authority is derived from their adherence to Scripture and their commitment to living out its principles.

The role of a man of God is not limited to formal church leadership but extends to any believer who is called to serve God wholeheartedly. This calling involves a life of prayer, study of the Word, and a commitment to living out one's faith in every aspect of life.

Conclusion

The designation "Men of God" signifies a special calling and responsibility to serve as God's representatives on earth. Whether in the Old Testament as prophets or in the New Testament as church leaders, these individuals are marked by their devotion to God and their commitment to His purposes. Through their lives and ministries, they exemplify what it means to be set apart for God's work, serving as a testament to His power and faithfulness.

Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 33:1
And this is the blessing, with which Moses the man of God blessed the children of Israel before his death.
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1 Timothy 6:11
But you, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
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Library

Christian Doctrine of God and his Law.
... Chapter IX."Christian Doctrine of God and His Law. ... who also was God's servant, was
made the minister both to ... to the Hebrews, who were also called Jews, whom ...
/.../theophilus/theophilus to autolycus/chapter ix christian doctrine of god.htm

How to Become Fishers of Men
... a thing that is very unpopular; and some Christian people may ... you would wonder how
he could be called a fisherman ... after years of work is not a minister of Christ ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 32 1886/how to become fishers of.htm

The Christian Business World
... STUDY XI THE CHRISTIAN BUSINESS WORLD. ... labour, talent and money for he will surely
be called upon to ... Christ is the one who makes his business minister to the ...
/.../sell/studies in the life of the christian/study xi the christian business.htm

Joseph, the Prime Minister
... And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphnath-paaneah; and he ... length portrait of the
prime minister, or vizier ... Men execute God's purposes, even when unconscious or ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/joseph the prime minister.htm

Saved by Grace Alone.
... to Damascus to cast into prison every Christian he could find ... Said the minister,
"You let any man speak one word ... A friend lately called my attention to the fact ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/sovereign grace/chapter ii saved by grace.htm

Laymen Called to the Field of Missions.
... the sentiment, that lay members of the church in great numbers are called to go ... Why
should not the aid enjoyed by the minister in Christian lands, from ...
/.../dibble/thoughts on missions/chapter v laymen called to.htm

Prayerlessness in the Pulpit
... to sit with Him, and had Christian preachers used ... the reply to every sincere inquiring
minister of God ... All of God's called men in the ministry are privileged to ...
/.../bounds/the weapon of prayer/viii prayerlessness in the pulpit.htm

The Coming of the Called.
... shows that masses of men die unconverted, altho called by the ... One can be persuaded
to be almost a Christian. ... in obedience to his Lord, he may minister the Word ...
/.../kuyper/the work of the holy spirit/xxviii the coming of the.htm

The Secret Walk with God (ii).
... a type of thought pregnant with disaster for Christian work ... the example of such a
life in the Minister of such ... but more of this, in those who are called to meet ...
/.../moule/to my younger brethren/chapter ii the secret walk.htm

Various Relations of the Logos to Men.
... be lowered to the level of those other beings called gods ... to be to all the other
gods the minister of their ... image and to the images of His image"men are said ...
/.../origen/origens commentary on the gospel of john/3 various relations of the.htm