Supernatural Resource

The earth is abundant with natural resources.  The perfectly tuned atmosphere exists on earth which promotes health of plant, animal, and human life.  Fruits and vegetables are grown in abundance on farms, and living animals both in the sea and on land provide food to support life.  Beneath the surface of the earth, vast reserves of oil and coal are collected to supply fuel for heating, transportation, and manufacturing.  Precious metals and gems are mined throughout the world for both industrial and cosmetic use.  The more plentiful the natural resources, the more profitable the enterprise.  When rarity of a resource is coupled with high demand, the value of that resource skyrockets.

From a worldly perspective, limited resources means limited success.  The ultimate resource for business and people is money.  Unfortunately, many churches these days also perceive money to be either the catalyst or great limiter for "ministry."  I recently read a quote from an Australian pastor which I paraphrase:  "Little money, little chance for ministry.  Lots of money, enormous opportunity for ministry."  This sentiment could not be further from the actual truth.  Are money, manpower, and positive thinking the natural resources of the church?

Let us turn our attention upon Jesus Christ, the Founder and Head of the church of God.  He did not attract followers with programs or large amounts of money.  He did not have a worship team comprised of young, stylish people who were skilled musicians and singers.  Jesus did not build a modern church campus and market Himself on the TV or internet.  And think of all the real ministry He was able to do through the power of the Holy Spirit!  Think of all the souls saved under His teaching, the people delivered from demonic power, the forgiveness, hope, peace, and joy which has been perpetuated to this day!  What is the resource of the church?  It is none other than the supernatural resource of God's love.  Big buildings, cutting-edge media presentations, dynamic preaching personalities, and thousands of euphoric people singing uplifting songs in unison are absolutely impotent for ministry without the love of Jesus Christ.

This is clearly seen in scripture:  the question is, do we believe it is true today?  Is the love of Jesus Christ all we need to reach this dying, decadent, world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ?  1 Corinthians 13:1-2 reads, "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. ² And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing."  I thank God He has abundantly supplied the needs of His people, both spiritually and physically.  Let us couple every resource God has provided with the supernatural resource of His love.  May our gaze be fixed upon our Saviour Jesus Christ, the model and source of such love!