A veteran missionary, teacher, and strategist was in the last few days of his life. Sadly, he became bitter. In his opinion, he was the foremost leader of missions in the country. The ideas, concepts, and insights he taught were taken over by others and succeeded. They got all the credits, even rewards. Like Jonah, he could not accept the success of his ministry and was angry. (Jonah 4:1)
Paul’s perspective: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So, neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor. For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. (I Corinthians 3:6-9)
Idea: Indeed, Paul was a great apostle, thinker, writer, and mission strategist. That is evident in his desire to preach where none have preached, venturing into new hostile regions, boldly preaching the gospel, and planting churches.
Methodology: Paul used different strategies for Jews, by going to their synagogues, God-fearers who were Gentiles but attracted towards Judaism from Gentiles. When such strategies succeed, other Apostles and evangelists will use the same method.
Partner agencies: In missions today, there could be partners who share the vision and borrow the methodology. Hence, there would be similar agencies that use the same strategies, methodologies, and tools. Paul was not bothered if people preach the gospel out of envy or right motive, as ultimately the gospel is being preached.
Local churches: Emerging leaders look around and learn from others. They get vision, mission, and strategy by observing their predecessors, or pioneers. What was an innovation at one point in time, may become normal as time goes on.
Growth and Glory: A farmer sows seed, and waters and he cannot make plants to grow. God is Lord of Life; he creates and makes it grow. Gospel seed is sown, the growth is God’s doing, and to Him belongs all glory. All disciples, pastors, and leaders are servants of the Highest.
Do I rob the glory of God?