The Acts of the Apostles (1911) — PDF Scan 533

Scan transcription helps with searching and selection. Use the printed page above for exact spelling and punctuation.

A FAITHFUL UNDER-SHEPHERD 527 fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of tliem that make peace. ^ ' The work of the gospel minister is '^to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God. " " If one entering upon this work chooses the least self-sacrificing part, contenting himself with preaching, and leaving the work of personal ministry for some one else, his labors will not be acceptable to God. Souls for whom Christ died are perishing for want of well-directed, personal labor; and he has mistaken his calling who, entering upon the ministry, is unwilling to do the personal work that the care of the flock demands. The spirit of the true shepherd is one of selfforgetfulness. He loses sight of self in order that he may work the works of God. By the preaching of the word and by personal ministry in the homes of the people, he learns their needs, their sorrows, their trials; and, co-operating with the great Burdenbearer, he shares their afflictions, comforts their distresses, relieves their soul-hunger, and wins their hearts to God. In this work the minister is attended by the angels of heaven, and he himself is instructed and enlightened in the truth that maketh wise unto salvation. In connection with his instruction to those in positions of trust in the church, the apostle outlined some general principles that were to be followed by all who were associated in church fellowship. The . younger members of the flock were urged to follow the example of their elders in the practice of Christ- *3 James 3:17,18. ^*Eph. 3:9. 34 — Acts