1 Corinthians 9:16: For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!

I understand Paul’s feeling. To be frank with you, necessity is laid on me also. I dare not stop giving out the Word of God. Of course, I would not lose my salvation if I stopped, but I continue because I feel an inner compulsion, and also I love to teach and preach the gospel. 1

Application

  • Read 2 Timothy 4:1-5. What has God called every Christian pastor to do? (You should be able to answer this question with just three words.)
  • How does the Word of God convince, rebuke, and exhort you to live fully for Him? According to 2 Timothy 4:5, how can you “fulfill your ministry?”

Thought to Share

May our last breathe be used to preach the gospel for one last time on earth. – TWEET IT

Prayer

Lord, thank you for trusting us to deliver Your Word to the world.

1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (1 Corinthians) (electronic ed., Vol. 44). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

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Tommy Blumberg

Tommy Blumberg

Tommy Blumberg was ordained as a Calvary Chapel pastor in 1985, where he served as an assistant pastor at Calvary Fellowship, in Seattle. In 1992, Pastor Tom, his wife Pam, and their three daughters moved to Bellingham and began a Bible study, which led to the founding of Calvary Chapel Northwest. Tom blogs regularly at TommyBlumberg.com.