Responding to Ministry Conflict: Debates on Calling

Ministry jealousy is evidence of discontent with God’s providential design. The groundwork is laid when pride rises up in the heart, and we chafe at the thought of our usefulness being eclipsed by the greater gifting of someone else. Such was the case with the Pharisees when Christ came upon the scene. Their self-will caused them to miss the ministry and mission of Christ, and so they set their affections against God and persecuted the Messiah. How was Christ uniquely set apart to minister to God’s people? He was the chosen Servant in Whom God was perfectly pleased, He made the way of salvation clear for both Jews and Gentiles, and He came in gentleness and humility, binding the wounds of broken people and restoring them to usefulness. Furthermore, He did not exalt Himself, but allowed the Father to magnify Him. Are you useful in ministry? Good! Continue to work hard with all of the gifts and strengths you’ve been given, submit yourself to God’s plan, and rejoice when He raises up another gifted servant whose ministry surpasses your own.