GOODNEWSLETTER
Number 476 June 5, 2013
ORDAINING BRETHREN
Acts 1:21 & 22 (N K J V)
"Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a
witness with us of His resurrection."
We know that two were chosen to represent Jesus as an Apostle; but, only one was ordained, Matthias. And, that came after lots were cast by the other eleven apostles. It is clear that restrictions were placed on all Biblical decisions. Notice that Matthias and Barsabas had to be living witnesses that observed the Life of Jesus and His work.
Thus, we see restrictions in God's process of ordaining men (or things). Ministers and deacons have to meet the framework set forth by God. It's Just like choosing a new apostle, according to God's word; that is, deacons are to be proved beforehand, as well. In other words, we don't ordain men to make them faithful. That comes first.
It is no wonder that Paul told Timothy to make sure that all deacons are "...tested" (1st Tim. 3:10). In all of God's plan, we can't miss the fact that God has many restrictions. So, while Paul told Titus to "appoint elders in every city," he required that every deacon "...be above reproach..." Titus 1:5 and 6.
The plan of God is His ordained process of getting the right people in the right place; at the right time. Of course, Jesus is how we serve the Lord, in any situation. However, when we listen to Him tell us what to do, we are being ordained. Listen as Jesus speaks: "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show His servants – things which must shortly come to pass" (Rev. 1:1).