The Minister’s Need for Mercy

1 Timothy 1:2

INTRODUCTION: One might be surprised that the scripture offers no qualifications for being a Christian. There are, however, qualifications for those who desire the office of a bishop or a deacon. Simply put, there are expectations God has for all believers, but a greater level of accountability in the present for those set aside for the gospel ministry.

I. PAUL’S TYPICAL GREETING

A. To Rome (Romans 1:7)

1. Grace
2. Peace

B. To Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 1:2)

1. Grace
2. Peace

C. To Galatia (Galatians 1:3)

1. Grace
2. Peace

D. To Ephesus (Ephesians 1:2)

1. Grace
2. Peace

E. To Philippi (Philippians 1:2)

1. Grace
2. Peace

F. To Colosse (Colossians 1:2)

1. Grace
2. Peace

G. To Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:2)

1. Grace
2. Peace

H. To Philemon (Philemon 1:3)

1. Grace
2. Peace

II. PAUL’S PASTORAL GREETING

A. To Timothy (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2)

1. Grace; God giving us good things we do not deserve
2. MERCY; God withholding bad things from us that we deserve
3. Peace

B. To Titus (Titus 1:4)

1. Grace
2. MERCY
3. Peace

III. PAUL’S MINISTERIAL UNDERSTANDING

A. The Accountability of Ministry (1 Corinthians 9:27)

1. Paul’s subjection
2. Paul’s preaching
3. Paul’s concern—“I myself should be a castaway”

B. The Inadequacy of Men (1 Corinthians 2:3-5)

1. Paul’s weakness (1 Corinthians 2:3)
2. Paul’s demonstration (1 Corinthians 2:4)
3. Paul’s proof (1 Corinthians 2:5)

C. The Responsibility of Ministry (1 Corinthians 9:16-18)

1. Paul’s inability to glory (1 Corinthians 9:16)
2. Paul’s commitment (1 Corinthians 9:17)
3. Paul’s reward (1 Corinthians 9:18)

D. The Regard for Ministry (2 Corinthians 6:3-10)

CONCLUSION: There is no wonder we need mercy in the ministry. We have such a high and holy calling and yet remain so inadequate for the task. Our failure in this calling brings reproach upon our people, the ministry, and, most importantly, our Lord. God help us!