Shaping a Ministry
Matthew 4:12-25 begins with the statement: “Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee.” This passage records Jesus’ steps in establishing His earthly ministry.
He chose His headquarters location. He chose His ministry team. He chose His ministry focus. But why did Jesus wait for John’s imprisonment to take these steps? Jesus was the main event; John was the forerunner—“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30) This was a carefully planned moment; there could not be any confusion of ministry! Jesus set up His ministry in three steps. First, He chose His ministry headquarters location—“he went and lived in Capernaum.” (v. 13) God’s servant goes out from somewhere to minister: the local church. Too many today “follow God’s calling” with no accountability. Scripture demonstrates those called out to begin works are called out from local bodies: Peter from the Jerusalem church; Paul from the church at Antioch. Jesus positioned His headquarters near the Gentiles on a trade route. Be where the people are! Second, He chose His ministry team core—“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (v. 19) Leaders have key personnel on their team. Of the four called in these verses, three spent more time with Jesus, went to more events with Jesus, and experienced more teaching and discipleship than all the rest of His disciples and followers. Third, He chose His ministry focus areas—“he went throughout all Galilee, teaching … and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.” (v. 23) Regardless of our specific ministry, we have Jesus’ model for public ministry. Teaching the truth of God’s Word; preaching the gospel message; and meeting physical or soul needs is our task. Your work is in the depth of ministry; God will develop the breadth of your ministry.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.