Topical Bible: Selfishness: Ministers should be Devoid of

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Selfishness, defined as the excessive or exclusive concern with oneself at the expense of others, is a trait that is antithetical to the calling of a minister of the Gospel. The Scriptures provide clear guidance on the character and conduct expected of those who serve in ministry, emphasizing the need for selflessness and a servant's heart.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently warns against selfishness and promotes selflessness, especially among those who are called to lead and serve the church. In Philippians 2:3-4 , the Apostle Paul exhorts believers, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This passage underscores the importance of humility and selflessness, qualities that are essential for ministers.

The Example of Christ

Ministers are called to emulate Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate example of selflessness. In Mark 10:45 , Jesus declares, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Christ's life and ministry were marked by sacrificial love and service to others, setting a standard for all who follow Him, particularly those in positions of leadership.

Qualifications for Church Leaders

The New Testament outlines specific qualifications for church leaders, which include a character devoid of selfishness. In 1 Timothy 3:2-3 , Paul lists the qualifications for overseers, stating, "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and not a lover of money." The absence of selfishness is implicit in these qualifications, as a leader must be hospitable, gentle, and not driven by personal gain.

Warnings Against Selfishness

The Bible also provides warnings against selfishness, particularly for those in ministry. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5 , Paul warns Timothy about the characteristics of people in the last days, including being "lovers of themselves" and "lovers of money." Such traits are incompatible with the role of a minister, who is called to love God and others above self.

The Role of Love and Service

Love and service are central to the ministerial calling, as highlighted in Galatians 5:13 : "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love." Ministers are to use their freedom in Christ to serve others, reflecting the love of God in their actions and attitudes.

Practical Implications

Ministers are to lead by example, demonstrating a life of selflessness and service. This involves prioritizing the needs of the congregation, being attentive to the spiritual and physical needs of others, and avoiding any form of self-promotion or personal gain. By doing so, they fulfill their calling and reflect the character of Christ to the world.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Corinthians 9:19-23
For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant to all, that I might gain the more.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Corinthians 10:33
Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Spiritual Culture.
... He says that the ministers of God should approve themselves by ... Have I felt and
manifested any selfishness? ... once we enter a state of grace, we should always, by ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter xi spiritual culture.htm

Benjamin Whichcote, the First of the "Latitude-Men"
... of his time, the prevailing tendency of ministers to seek ... sight: Were it not for
God we should not know ... health and strength."[40] Sin and selfishness carry a ...
/.../chapter xv benjamin whichcote the.htm

The Gospel of Luke
... the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the ... the human perfections of Christ,
should note our ... side." Thus we behold the selfishness, the callousness ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/why four gospels/the gospel of luke.htm

The Evangelical Revival.
... there was not the slightest taint of selfishness, nor yet ... another occasion she happened
to have two young ministers in her ... to her that one of them should preach ...
/.../chapter ix the evangelical revival.htm