The Singular Christian Pursuit

For about 11 years of my working life I was part of a labour union which provided training, top wages and opportunity for advancement.  The emphasis when I joined was to work "8 for 8" (work all 8 hours for 8 hours of pay), buy American if possible, show up on time, have a good attitude and do quality work.  The training and efficient, quality work our union was known for enabled us to charge top-dollar for our services and actually saved customers money because of the superior product.  Over the years, however, the position of the union shifted in regards to how we could be successful in our industry:  making friends in politics through financial contributions.

I found the shift from doing quality work to seeking political sway as our primary way of profitability, sustainability and survival most concerning.  Instead of the union existing to support the membership, it had become cannibalistic, increasing dues from members to neutralise threats to "our work" by greasing the palms of politicians.  It is bad enough when this happens in labour unions, yet it is even more shocking and despicable when this occurs in the church or faith-based "parachurch" organisations that seem to think gain is godliness (1 Timothy 6:5).  I remember going to a youth conference years ago that was actually a massive infomercial, glossing over the ministry opportunity right before them with the promise of bigger and better next year.  For a fee this "ministry" would help churches help others--when it required increasing support of Christians to survive at all.

There are countless ministries which are great benefit to the Body of Christ and bring glory to God.  I do not want to paint a negative picture with a broad brush, but I do believe it is profitable for self-examination:  am I content to pay others to do what God is calling me to do myself?  Do I prefer the convenience of giving financial support to a ministry in lieu of getting my hands dirty?  Am I seeking gain for the kingdom of God or to promote myself or a local ministry?  How easy it is to drift from the purpose God has called us to labour in the Word and be caught up in politics, to abandon the rock-solid foundation for shifting sands.  Having renounced the love of money and lust for gain 1 Timothy 6:11-12 says, "But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. ¹² Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."

Instead focusing on what we need to do, Paul urged Timothy to become the man God created Him to be.  Huge difference!  It was not about what strategies Timothy needed to employ to secure greater attendance, followers or likes:  he was to pursue Jesus Christ and follow His example.  He was to put off the works of the flesh and be filled with the Holy Spirit, bearing fruit according to God's design.  This fight was not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers who had been overcome by the blood of Lamb and walk worthy of the salvation received by the grace of God.  Praise the LORD our salvation does not depend upon a pastor, ministry or organisation, for Jesus Christ is our Saviour and all in all.  As our Good Shepherd He will lead us in ministry and service, and may all our efforts be united for His glory alone.