Greetings. Thanks for joining us, as we ask an almighty question: 'What's the goal of ministry?'
Sounds like it should have a straightforward answer. But Christian psychologist Grant Bickerton provided an answer during our latest Planter Session – which you might not have expected. Yet, how he summarised the purpose of Christian ministry says a lot about the way many of us can think about it. And how that way of thinking is unhealthy and unhelpful.
You can listen to Grant's entire discussion on 'Beating Burn Out', by clicking here. Grant covers the spectrum of burn out issues, from why ministry workers are susceptible, to '5 Ways To Beat Burn Out'.
What the goal is not
While chatting with Al Stewart about the interest he has in promoting wellbeing and longevity in ministry workers, Grant defined the purpose of ministry. By saying what it is not.
'The goal in ministry isn't just to be not burned out. Barely scraping through,' Grant explained. 'The goal, like Paul would say, is never be lacking in zeal. Keeping your spiritual fervour, always serving the Lord.'
Don't you resonate with that? Or fear that, about Christian ministry? How Romans 12:11 can be overshadowed by the survival instinct. Performing our role is to withstand busyness, setbacks and frustrations of service. Church planting becomes less about God's kingdom work, more about not being devoured by it.
If you are burning out, know a ministry worker who is, or you want to be preventitive, Grant's 'Beating Burn Out' session will be of enormous assistance. Listen to it now.
For all Geneva Push resources on 'Lasting the distance' in ministry, click here. Spend some time watching, listening and reading to more practical and Biblical wisdom about how to joyfully persevere as a servant of Christ.
– Ed.
