This Sunday, March 3rd, 2019, I have the honor and privilege to “officially” recognize our two Brooklyn Church of God Associate Pastor’s, Ben Helton and Jerry Bailey via Installation. Ben is serving as Associate of Visitation and Congregational Care, while Jerry is serving as Associate of Outreach and Visitation.  I appreciate all that these two men do for Jesus and His church.  And although I believe a service such as this is important, I also understand that it is a sovereign God who ordains, calls and sets its members in place (installation) - we only recognize what God has done - “He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers.” (cf. Ephesians 4:11)

As I understand scripture, a pastor’s main role is to “equip the saints for the work of ministry.” (cf. Ephesians 4:12)   Who are the saints? - all those that are born again!  If you have received Christ by faith as your personal Savior and Lord, God declares you a saint (no longer a sinner) and now a part of a royal priesthood!

God may not have called you to pastor, but He has called ALL to the work of ministry!   What is the work of ministry? - reconciliation (cf. 2 Cor. 5:18) -

Restoration of relationships!  Life is all about right relationships!  That is what Jesus came to do and now has given that ministry to you and me.

According to scripture we are to edify, and unite in the faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ.  We are to speak the truth (God’s truth) in love and grow in our relationship with Christ. (cf. Ephesians 4: 13-16)

And remember, it is God’s work - we are only His hands, feet, voice and ear (His body)!  Everyone is called and has an important part!  Have you answered the call?   I pray you have!

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen - Jude 24-25

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney