Friday night was a joyful celebration … but what was it all about? What was I Commissioned to do as TGS Senior Minister? The Bible gives us many answers; here are some of them, from 2 Timothy Chapters 3-4. I was Commissioned —

  • To follow the good teaching and examples of worthy role models e.g. Paul tells Timothy: “You … know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance” (2 Tim. 3:10). I should follow worthy role models, and be a model (albeit imperfect one) for you.
  • To follow God’s word: “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (v14-15). This is what I should do, and what we all should follow.
  • To use God’s word to prepare me: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the [Literally “man of God” a phrase used for those who teach God’s word] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (v16-17). I was Commissioned to give myself to God’s word in order to Pastor.
  • To use God’s word at all times: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage— with great patience and careful instruction” (4:2). My ministry should focus on God’s word, and you should receive the preaching and teaching of the Scriptures.
  • To be sober, persevering, evangelistic and dutiful: “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” (v5). So, it’s a big ask! So, please pray for me every week! I need your prayers.
  • To spread the gospel widely that many, many can be eternally saved, as we will be: “But the Lord [stands] at my side and [gives] me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it …. The Lord will … bring me [& us] safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (v17-18). So, may I, every leader at TGS and every one of you be encouraged to see this happen!

This is what Friday night was about; this is what I’m here for.

Cameron