One text in this reading struck me,

“Indeed, I consider that I am not in the least inferior to these super-apostles (by the way I like the ESV translation of super-apostles, made me think of famous television evangelists). 6 Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not so in knowledge; indeed, in every way we have made this plain to you in all things.” -2 Corinthians 11:5 & 6

Today for whatever reason this verse struck a nerve…a good nerve…a needed nerve, but still a nerve in me. In ministry there is the temptation to compare ones skills against another, the minister that has never done it…I don’t believe…even the best and most successful do, check out this testimony, this moment with Dwight Nelson and Mark Finley,

So it is a struggle. But verse 6…

“Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not so in knowledge; indeed, in every way we have made this plain to you in all things.”

Paul tells us what brings ultimate success, i.e. glory to God. It is the message we share. Not being the best skilled. Paul said I am a plain speaker, but I am not inferior because of the message. The message is everything. The message being the Gospel, Good News of Jesus Christ…His life, His death, His resurrection!

Can I apply this to those not in professional ministry. Every person that sits in the pew has the access to the same Holy Spirit, the same Bible that I do or any other preacher does. They can know this same message, each person to the same degree as myself or Dwight Nelson or Mark Finley can understand the Gospel. If you have that knowledge and are willing to share that message you will be successful in your witness to your neighbor, your family member, the stranger you sit next to on the metro. To the thousands you may one day preach in front of. Have that message. Jesus loves you, He died for you, He wants to live through you and make you holy, and He’s coming back for you. That message not the skill changes the world.

Next Reading: Exodus 29-32