QT 6/17/2025 2 Cor 10:13–18, What is the work God has called you to?

2 Corinthians 10:13–18 (ESV) —

13 But we will not boast beyond limits, but will boast only with regard to the area of influence God assigned to us, to reach even to you. 14 For we are not overextending ourselves, as though we did not reach you. For we were the first to come all the way to you with the gospel of Christ. 15 We do not boast beyond limit in the labors of others. But our hope is that as your faith increases, our area of influence among you may be greatly enlarged, 16 so that we may preach the gospel in lands beyond you, without boasting of work already done in another’s area of influence. 17 “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 18 For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

 

NOTE: I can only do the things God has called me to do. And it is not really boasting, because it is God's work. I can serve in many areas, but for my main ministry, it ought to be where God has assigned me. I came to Christ almost 50 years ago, and nearly all of that time, I have been involved in making disciples. Most of that work was one-on-one, which I do not regret even though I did not see a lot of disciple makers emerge. Lately, I have been involved in small groups of three, called triads, in intentional discipleship relationships. The extra person and  sharing leadership after six weeks has removed the "teacher-student" barrier where others thought they had to be me in order to do what I was doing. Anyone can make disciples. I can boast now that many more people are making disciples in these last 8-9 years, than I ever saw in the previous 40. Like Paul, I am "preaching" in many lands now because of these new disciple makers. But there is nothing to boast about, only something to get excited about. I am nobody, used by God, and unworthy. What can I say to God except thank you for your mercy to me.

 

PONDER:

1. Disciple making is called the great commission. Jesus calls all disciples to make disciples. What are we doing to be obedient to this command?
2. Have we ever seen a person come to Christ through our testimony? Have we ever helped the new born babe in Christ grow into a mature believer who is now also making disciples too?

 

PRAYER: Father, I am in the latter third of my life now. I don't need to work. You have provide all that I need. Help me to see my ministry opportunities. Right now, two precious babies occupy all my time, but I know that is only for a season. Prepare me now for the next stage in two to three years.