This is a compilation of New Testament scriptures that exhort us to faithful Christian ministry. I have used this as a charge for Ministerial Internship Program graduation exercises, and I offered it as the benediction at our 2014 graduation at Pentecostal Theological Seminary.
Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves… Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 10:16; 28:19).
Be eager to preach the gospel. Do not be ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:15-16). Preach in demonstration of the Spirit and of power (1 Corinthians 2:4). Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction (2 Timothy 4:2). And as you go, preach, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give (Matthew 10:7-8).
Go out “…into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in here the poor and crippled and blind and lame… Go out into the highways and along the hedges, and compel them to come in, so that God’s house may be filled” (Luke 14:21-23). Feed the hungry and thirsty; Invite the stranger; Clothe the naked; Visit the prisoner (Matthew 25:42-43). Visit orphans and widows in their distress; …keep yourself unstained by the world (James 1:27).
If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them (John 20:23). Restore those who are “caught in any trespass… in a spirit of gentleness…” (Galatians 6:1).
Be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine (1 Timothy 4:6). Be strengthened with power through His Spirit …know the love of Christ …be filled up to all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:16-19).
Endure to the end (Matthew 24:13). Fight the good fight, finish the course, keep the faith; in the future there is laid up for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to you on that day; and not only to you, but also to all who have loved His appearing (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
Finally, …rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; … The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all (2 Corinthians 13:11-14).
AMEN.
