aul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God.”
(Romans 1:1)
God in His infinite wisdom and sovereignty has designated specific ministers to be responsible for the task of propagating His Word. This sacred trust – the ministry to which these servants are called – was instituted and ordained by God Himself. One such well-known minister is the Apostle Paul, who refers to himself as one “set apart for the gospel of God,” (Rom. 1:1). This setting apart emphasizes the distinctive calling of those God chooses for this task.
To better grasp this concept, we can look at two of its essential aspects:
Ministers are God’s Appointed Officers: Throughout biblical history, individuals have been chosen by God to fulfill specific roles within His Church. These individuals are described by such terms as stewards, heralds, and watchmen and are not simply volunteers or self-appointed leaders. Rather, they are divinely selected for a specific, higher purpose.[1] Further, Romans 12 expounds on their distinct placement within the Church.
Preaching is a Minister’s Primary Task: The Old Testament highlights the multifaceted roles of priests. For example, Levitical priests were responsible for carrying out those rituals and sacrifices God specifically assigned to them. But they were also charged with teaching Israel the ways of Jehovah (Deut. 33, Mal. 2). In the New Testament we find Jesus commissioning His twelve disciples, and later the seventy, primarily to preach the Gospel.
Several of Paul’s writings, particularly Titus 1:3 and 1 Thessalonians 2:4, underscore his own calling from God as one who was entrusted with the Gospel. Paul knew he was privileged to be called by God to this mission, but he also knew it was God’s mandate for him. And for this reason he considered it to be no light matter.
In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul explains the grave responsibility those who are called to preach the Gospel have to fulfill. They must execute their duties with the utmost diligence, for they bear the “power of God to salvation.” They are also charged with this essential role to help ensure that believers do not remain spiritually immature (Eph. 4:14). For this reason, preaching requires a solemn consecration to the ministry.
The importance of God-appointed ministers preaching His Word cannot be overstated. Their role is to teach, to guide, to nurture, and to shepherd the flock of God – a work that is foundational to the spiritual growth and maturity of the Church. Hence, every act of service they render must be in obedience to God’s command and in alignment with His divine will.
Contemplations:
- The Weight of the Call: When I read Romans 1:1 and see Paul’s description of himself, it reminds me of the heavy responsibility that comes with being “set apart for the gospel.” It’s not just about sharing the good news of the Gospel but also involves bearing the weight of a divine commission. This requires a life wholly dedicated to the God’s service.
- The Legacy of Faithful Servants: Reflecting on the role of priests in the Old Testament, especially their duty to teach Israel, I’m reminded of the legacy left behind by faithful servants throughout the ages. Their dedication ensured that God’s Word was passed from one generation to the next.
- The Power of Preaching: Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 9 about the dispensation of the Gospel entrusted to him resonate deeply with me. It reminds me that preaching is transformative. It is through this proclamation of the Word that hearts are changed, and lives are saved.
- Obedience Over Intent: True Christianity is not about good intentions, but rather is measured by our degree of obedience to God’s explicit commands. This reality serves as a reminder that in our acts of worship and service, our primary aim should be to align with God’s will and directives as found in His Word.
Further References for Romans 1:1:
Acts 13:2; 1 Cor. 1:1; Acts 9:15; Gal. 1:15
[1] The Divine Right of the Gospel-Ministry by the Westminster Puritans,” (London: printed by John Legat and Abraham Miller, 1654), p. 84.
