Richard Ray: Only together can we do God’s work

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As ministers and servant leaders, we are on this earth to serve the kingdom of God and his church. We do this by ministering to each other in small ways that steady the whole body as we support and care for one another.

richard ray130Richard RayIn 1 Corinthians 12:19, the Apostle Paul asks, “If they were all one member, where would the body be?” So often in our churches, we look at someone’s gift or talent as something we can see or hear, whether that be a teacher, preacher or singer. Too often, we overlook those who desire to serve, because we only look at their outward talents or lack thereof. When we fail to look at the heart of the servant, we are failing the body of Christ, the church, for we are telling the body, “We have no need of you.”

We need to become the church that exists to use all the unique gifts God has bestowed on his children. We need to challenge, guide, encourage and support each member in their God-given desire and talent to serve our Lord. As a pastor and director of missions, I have been called to provide stability when a church is hurting, strengthen through discipleship and support in fulfilling God’s vision.

We are the body of Christ

Paul asks, “If they were all one member, where would the body be?” I believe God has called each church to serve him in unique and glorifying ways, but it must not come at the expense of the whole body. Each church is a member of the body of Christ, and collectively, we are the body. We are not one association. We are not one church. But rather, we are one body serving together in fulfilling the mission God has laid out before us in his word.

Billy Graham made this statement in a 1987 crusade: “We have become a neighborhood without the brotherhood.”

I want to see our neighborhood of churches become a brotherhood of churches who are willing to support and partner with one another in doing the work of the Lord. We are one body with many members, but we serve one God, with one purpose. I challenge you—church members, servant leaders and pastors—let us become a brotherhood of churches; let us become one body. Let us suffer together and rejoice together as 1 Corinthians 12:26 reminds us, “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.”

Love and serve together

It is not enough to recognize one another like we would a neighbor. We must love one another and serve alongside one another in support, prayer and participation, so we become a brotherhood of believers who will deliver the message of God’s grace to the world.


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texas baptist voices right120Only together can we accomplish what God has commanded us to do. Only together can we make a difference for the kingdom of God. Only together can we become a brotherhood.

Remember, God has called you to serve him, but God has not called you to serve alone. Let us be your advocate, your resource and your prayer partner as you fulfill your calling. Until next time, please visit our website, www.bivocational.com.

Richard Ray is executive director of the Bivocational/Small Church Association and director of missions for the Tri-Rivers Baptist Area. You can reach him at [email protected].


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