CO-WORKERS WITH CHRIST!

“And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” — Matthew 4:19

ABSTRACT

This article explores how God chooses humble individuals to be His co-workers in spreading the gospel, emphasizing self-denial, the great commission, the power of the Holy Spirit, unwavering commitment, and the legacy of love and labor, drawing lessons from the apostles and Paul for today’s church.

HUMBLE HANDS

In a world that often celebrates the powerful and the privileged, the methods of heaven frequently stand in stark contrast. Where humanity might seek out the polished and the proficient, God often chooses the unassuming, the readily available, those whose hearts are open to His leading. Consider, if you will, the very foundation of Christ’s earthly ministry: His selection of those who would become the pillars of His church. “And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils,” (Mark 3:13-15, KJV). This deliberate choice underscores a profound truth: God’s power is not contingent upon human expertise or social standing. Indeed, the Master Teacher bypassed the esteemed scholars and influential figures of His day to call ordinary men to an extraordinary task. As Ellen G. White so astutely observed, “For the carrying on of His work, Christ did not choose the learning or eloquence of the Jewish Sanhedrin or the power of Rome. Passing by the self-righteous Jewish teachers, the Master-worker chose humble, unlearned men to proclaim the truths that were to move the world” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 17, 1911). This divine preference for the seemingly unqualified should fill us with hope, for it reveals that God’s call extends to all who possess a willing heart, regardless of their perceived limitations. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The Bible supports this with “But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7, KJV) and “Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?” (James 2:5, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this idea: “God chooses His own agents, and each day under different circumstances He gives them a trial in His plan of operation. In each true-hearted endeavor to work out His plan, He chooses His agents not because they are perfect but because, through a connection with Him, they may gain perfection.” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 363, 1905) and “The Lord chooses His own agents, and each day under different circumstances He gives them a trial in His plan of operation. In each true-hearted endeavor to work out His plan, He chooses His agents not because they are perfect but because, through a connection with Him, they may gain perfection.” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 363, 1905). Unlike worldly standards that prioritize skill and status, God values availability and a spirit of obedience. “But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty,” (1 Corinthians 1:27, KJV). This pattern of divine selection, evident in the lives of figures like the shepherd boy David chosen to be king (1 Samuel 16:11-13, KJV), reminds us that true strength lies not in ourselves but in the One who calls us. But what is the cost of such commitment?

COMMITMENT’S COST REVEALED!

While the call to co-work with Christ is open to all, it is not without its demands. The path of discipleship is not a leisurely stroll through a rose garden; it is a challenging ascent that requires a fundamental shift in our priorities and a willingness to embrace sacrifice. “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it,” (Luke 9:23-24, KJV). This call to self-denial is not a suggestion but a prerequisite for those who desire to walk in the footsteps of the Master. In stark contrast to the self-centeredness that often permeates human endeavors, the work of God demands a complete surrender of our own will and desires. Sr. White emphasizes this crucial aspect: “The people of God are to come close to Christ in self-denial and sacrifice, their one aim being to give the message of mercy to all the world” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 26, 1909). This daily taking up of the cross signifies a constant willingness to put Christ first, even when it means personal discomfort or inconvenience. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me,” (Galatians 2:20, KJV). This profound transformation, where our own desires are subsumed by the love of Christ, is essential for effective service. “Let nothing that savors of self be mingled with the service rendered to God” (Gospel Workers, p. 117, 1915). Self-denial is a key to spiritual growth. Scripture confirms this with “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7, KJV) and “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33, KJV). Sr. White adds: “The law of self-sacrifice is the law of self-preservation. The husbandman preserves his grain by casting it away. So in human life. To give is to live. The life that will be preserved is the life that is freely given in service to God and man.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 623, 1898) and “The life spent on self is like the grain that is eaten. It disappears, but there is no increase. A man may gather all he can for self; he may live and think and plan for self; but his life passes away, and he has nothing. The law of self-serving is the law of self-destruction.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 624, 1898). But what global mission does this commitment enable?

GLOBAL MISSION MANDATE!

Having chosen His initial co-workers and imparted to them the foundational principles of His kingdom, Jesus entrusted them with a mission that extended far beyond the borders of their immediate surroundings. As He prepared to ascend to His Father, He gave them a command that continues to resonate with urgency today. “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost,” (Matthew 28:18-19, KJV). This “Go ye” is not a localized suggestion but a universal mandate, calling for the message of salvation to be proclaimed to every corner of the globe. Unlike earthly kingdoms with their limited territories and finite influence, the kingdom of God encompasses all humanity, and the call to share the good news knows no geographical boundaries. And to empower His disciples for this monumental task, Jesus offered a comforting and enduring promise. “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen,” (Matthew 28:20, KJV). Sr. White reassures us of the enduring nature of this promise: “To us also the promise of Christ’s abiding presence is given. The lapse of time has wrought no change in His parting promise. He is with us to-day as truly as He was with the disciples, and He will be with us ‘even unto the end’” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 17, 1904). This divine assurance should embolden us to step out in faith, knowing that the Lord of the harvest is with us every step of the way. “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come,” (Matthew 24:14, KJV). The commission calls for global outreach. The Bible supports this with “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, KJV) and “And the gospel must first be published among all nations.” (Mark 13:10, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “The Saviour’s commission to the disciples included all the believers. It includes all believers in Christ to the end of time. It is a fatal mistake to suppose that the work of saving souls depends alone on the ordained minister. All to whom the heavenly inspiration has come are put in trust with the gospel. All who receive the life of Christ are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men. For this work the church was established, and all who take upon themselves its sacred vows are thereby pledged to be co-workers with Christ.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 822, 1898) and “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 195, 1898). But how is this mission empowered by divine power?

SPIRIT’S POWER SURGES!

Recognizing the immensity of the task before them and their own inherent limitations, the disciples understood their need for a power beyond themselves. Jesus had promised them this divine enablement, instructing them to wait in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high. “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth,” (Acts 1:8, KJV). This promise was not delayed. On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out in abundance, transforming ordinary men into bold and effective witnesses for Christ. In stark contrast to their previous timidity and uncertainty, the disciples were now filled with courage and the ability to speak with clarity and conviction. The immediate result of this divine empowerment was a remarkable ingathering of souls. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls,” (Acts 2:41, KJV). The impact of the Holy Spirit’s presence continued to be felt as the message spread. “Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand,” (Acts 4:4, KJV). Sr. White vividly describes this transformative period: “What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the uttermost parts of the inhabited world. As the disciples proclaimed the message of redeeming grace, hearts yielded to the power of the message. The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were reconverted. Sinners united with us in seeking the pearl of great price. Some who had been the bitterest opponents of the gospel became its champions” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 48, 1911). This historical account serves as a powerful reminder that the work of saving souls is not accomplished through human might or intellect alone, but through the power of the Holy Spirit. “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts,” (Zechariah 4:6, KJV). The Holy Spirit empowers ministry. Scripture confirms this with “And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.” (Luke 12:11-12, KJV) and “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, KJV). Sr. White adds: “The Pentecostal outpouring was Heaven’s communication that the Redeemer’s inauguration was accomplished. According to His promise He had sent the Holy Spirit from heaven to His followers as a token that He had, as priest and king, received all authority in heaven and on earth, and was the Anointed One over His people.” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 38, 1911) and “The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the church is looked forward to as in the future; but it is the privilege of the church to have it now. Seek for it, pray for it, believe for it. We must have it, and Heaven is waiting to bestow it.” (Evangelism, p. 701, 1946). But how did the apostles remain undaunted in the face of opposition?

JESUS’ NAME UNDAUNTED!

The message proclaimed by the apostles was not a collection of philosophical musings or human opinions; it was centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. They understood that true salvation and reconciliation with God could only be found through Him. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved,” (Acts 4:12, KJV). This unwavering focus on the name of Jesus, however, drew the ire of those who felt threatened by their teachings. The religious authorities of the day attempted to silence them, issuing strict commands. “Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us,” (Acts 5:28, KJV). In stark contrast to their adversaries’ desire for silence, the apostles remained resolute in their commitment to speak the truth. “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men,” (Acts 5:29, KJV). They understood that their ultimate allegiance was to God, and no human authority could compel them to deny the message they had been entrusted with. Even in the face of imprisonment and persecution, their spirit remained unbroken. “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ,” (Acts 5:41-42, KJV). Sr. White highlights the transformative power of this unwavering commitment: “The disciples were filled with joy that they were accounted worthy to suffer for Christ’s sake. Their joy was not a boisterous exultation, but a deep, abiding peace” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 84, 1911). This example teaches us that difficulties and trials are not necessarily hindrances to the work of God but can, in fact, refine our faith and strengthen our resolve. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution,” (2 Timothy 3:12, KJV). Commitment to Jesus brings persecution but joy. The Bible supports this with “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10, KJV) and “But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.” (1 Peter 3:14, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “The apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus. And Jesus bade His disciples rejoice in the same way as they were privileged to suffer for His sake. It is an honor to suffer for the truth.” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 85, 1911) and “The disciples were not intimidated or cast down by this sentence. The words which the Lord had spoken to them came to their minds: ‘The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also’” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 79, 1911). But what does Paul’s passion reveal about heartfelt dedication?

PAUL’S FIERY PASSION!

Among the devoted co-workers of Christ, the Apostle Paul stands as a towering figure of unwavering dedication and tireless service. From his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus to his martyrdom in Rome, his life was a testament to the transformative power of the gospel. He introduces himself not with worldly titles or accolades, but with a profound sense of his divine calling. “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,” (Romans 1:1, KJV). His ministry was marked by relentless effort and a willingness to endure immense hardship for the sake of spreading the message of salvation. In stark contrast to a life of ease and comfort, Paul willingly embraced suffering and sacrifice. “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh,” (2 Corinthians 4:8-11, KJV). His burden for those who were lost was profound, driving him to tireless labor and fervent prayer. “Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears,” (Acts 20:31, KJV). Sr. White reminds us that this same spirit of selfless service should characterize our work today: “As Christ sent forth His disciples, so to-day He sends forth the members of His church. The same power that the apostles had is for them. If they will make God their strength, He will work with them, and they shall not labor in vain. Let them realize that the work in which they are engaged is one upon which the Lord has placed His signet” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 599, 1911). Paul’s example serves as a powerful inspiration, urging us to dedicate our lives fully to the cause of Christ and to labor with the same passion and perseverance that he demonstrated. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,” (2 Timothy 4:7, KJV). Paul’s dedication inspires us. Scripture confirms this with “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9, KJV) and “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1, KJV). Sr. White adds: “The apostle Paul, in his parting words to the elders of Ephesus, exhorted them to fidelity in the work of the ministry, and then prayed with them, and for them.” (Gospel Workers, p. 210, 1915) and “Paul’s labors in Ephesus were concluded. His ministry there had been a season of incessant labor, of many trials, and of deep anxiety.” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 296, 1911). But how does the echo of Pentecost resonate in our hearts today?

PENTECOST ECHOES TODAY!

The historical narrative of the apostles is not merely a recounting of past events; it holds profound spiritual significance for us today. The promise of the Holy Spirit, which so powerfully equipped the early church, is not a relic of the past but a living reality for all who believe. As the apostle Peter declared on the day of Pentecost, “For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call,” (Acts 2:39, KJV). This means that the same divine power that transformed those first disciples is available to us, empowering us to be effective witnesses for Christ in our own time and context. Consider the spiritual implications: If we truly believe that the Holy Spirit is available to us, are we actively seeking His presence and power in our lives and ministries? Are we relying on our own strength and abilities, or are we humbly submitting ourselves to the guidance and direction of the Spirit? The spiritual issue at hand is our willingness to be filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit. “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit,” (Ephesians 5:18, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes the ongoing need for this divine infilling: “The Holy Spirit is the breath of spiritual life in the soul. The impartation of the Spirit is the impartation of the life of Christ. It imbues the receiver with the attributes of Christ” (The Desire of Ages, p. 691, 1898). Are we allowing the Spirit to breathe new life into our efforts to share the gospel? Pentecost’s power is available today. The Bible supports this with “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, KJV) and “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.” (Joel 2:28, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to any age or to any race. Christ declared that the divine influence of His Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end.” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 49, 1911) and “What we need is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Without this, we are no more fitted to go forth to the world than were the disciples after the crucifixion of their Lord.” (Evangelism, p. 699, 1946). But how do we decode God’s blueprint for soul-winning?

SOUL-WINNING BLUEPRINT DECODED!

Examining the methods and principles employed by Jesus in choosing and empowering His co-workers reveals a consistent and insightful divine strategy. God’s approach is not to seek out those who possess the most impressive natural talents or the highest social standing. Instead, He looks for hearts that are willing to be molded and used for His purposes. This is a direct challenge to the world’s emphasis on human achievement and self-sufficiency. Furthermore, the consistent emphasis on self-denial, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the name of Jesus underscores the spiritual nature of this work. It is not a task that can be accomplished through mere human effort or clever strategies. It requires a deep reliance on God’s power and a willingness to prioritize His kingdom above all else. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost serves as a clear demonstration that divine empowerment is essential for effective soul-winning. As J. N. Andrews wrote, “The third angel’s message is the last message of mercy to a perishing world. It is a message that calls men away from the worship of the beast and his image, and directs them to the worship of the true God” (The Three Messages of Revelation XIV, J. N. Andrews, p. 13). This final message requires the same divine power that equipped the early church. God’s blueprint emphasizes humility and reliance on Him. Scripture confirms this with “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5, KJV) and “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33, KJV). Sr. White adds: “The great object of our lives should be to have the spirit of the Master. We need to study the life of Christ more closely, and seek with determined effort to copy His example.” (Gospel Workers, p. 290, 1915) and “The success of the gospel message does not depend upon learned speeches, eloquent testimonies, or deep arguments. It depends upon the simplicity of the message and its adaptation to the souls that are hungering for the bread of life.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 231, 1900). But how is God’s love revealed as compassion that compels action?

GOD’S COMPASSION COMPELS!

The concepts we have explored throughout this article are not merely abstract theological principles; they are profound expressions of God’s boundless love for humanity. His choice of humble individuals to carry the message of salvation demonstrates a love that reaches down to the lowest and most unassuming among us. It is a love that sees potential and worth in those whom the world might overlook. Sr. White beautifully articulates this aspect of God’s love: “The Saviour’s love is not a mere sentimental feeling; it is a living, working principle. It leads to self-denial, to sacrifice. It was this love that led Christ to leave His Father’s glory and come to our world to die, that we might live” (Steps to Christ, p. 15, 1892). This self-sacrificing love is the very foundation of the gospel message we are called to share. As another early Adventist pioneer, Uriah Smith, stated, “The great object of the gospel is to restore man to the image of God” (Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation, Uriah Smith, p. 399). God’s love is not passive; it is an active force that compels Him to seek and save the lost. God’s love compels action. The Bible supports this with “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV) and “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” (1 John 4:10, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “God is love. Like rays of light from the sun, love and light and joy flow out from Him to all His creatures. It is His nature to give. His very life is the outflow of unselfish love.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 77, 1896) and “The love of God is something more than a mere negation; it is a positive and active benevolence, a benevolence that does not stop at good wishes, but that does good things.” (The Signs of the Times, March 13, 1884). But what is our responsibility to God in response?

In light of the overwhelming evidence of God’s love and His clear call to co-labor with Him, my responsibility becomes undeniably clear. It is a responsibility rooted in gratitude, fueled by love, and expressed through wholehearted obedience. Just as the disciples responded to Jesus’ invitation to “follow me,” I am called to prioritize His will above my own ambitions and desires. Sr. White provides a clear directive regarding this responsibility: “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver” (The Desire of Ages, p. 195, 1898). This means that my faith is not meant to be a private affair but an active force that flows outward, impacting the lives of those around me. As Ellen Harmon, a young pioneer, wrote in a letter, “We have a work to do for the Lord, and we must not be slothful or negligent” (Letter 2, 1851). My responsibility is to be a conduit of God’s love and truth, sharing the blessings I have received with others. Responsibility to God demands obedience. The Bible supports this with “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15, KJV) and “And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” (1 John 3:22, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “Obedience—the service and allegiance of love—is the true sign of discipleship.” (Steps to Christ, p. 60, 1892) and “The law of God is an expression of His very nature; it is an embodiment of the great principle of love, and hence is the foundation of His government in heaven and earth.” (Steps to Christ, p. 60, 1892). But how does this extend to responsibility to our neighbor?

The call to be co-workers with Christ extends beyond our personal relationship with God; it encompasses our interactions with our fellow human beings. The Great Commission to “teach all nations” underscores the breadth of our responsibility to our neighbors, regardless of their background, beliefs, or social standing. This is not merely a suggestion but a fundamental aspect of what it means to follow Christ. Sr. White emphasizes the practical outworking of this duty: “Wherever the heart is in harmony with God, there will be love for our fellow men. Perfect love for God is the only true source of perfect love for man” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 144, 1889). Our responsibility to our neighbor is a direct reflection of our love for God. As James White, a key figure in the early Adventist movement, wrote, “We should seek to do good to all men, as we have opportunity” (The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Vol. 1, No. 1, p. 8). This involves extending compassion, offering practical assistance, and sharing the hope that we have found in Christ. Our lives should be characterized by acts of love and service that point others to the Savior. Responsibility to neighbors reflects love for God. The Bible supports this with “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” (Matthew 22:39, KJV) and “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “The law of God requires that man shall love God supremely, and his neighbor as himself. When through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, this is perfectly done, we shall be complete in Christ.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 396, 1872) and “True love is a high and holy principle, altogether different in character from that love which is awakened by impulse and which suddenly dies when severely tested.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 176, 1890). But what final reflections does this legacy inspire?

LEGACY OF LOVE ENDURES!

The lives of Jesus’ chosen co-workers serve as a powerful and enduring example for us today. Their journey was not always easy; they faced challenges, opposition, and even persecution. Yet, empowered by the Holy Spirit and sustained by their unwavering faith in Christ, they transformed the world. Their legacy is not one of earthly power or material wealth, but of selfless love and tireless labor for the salvation of souls. As we reflect on their experiences, we are reminded that God’s work on earth is not yet finished. The call to be co-workers with Christ continues to echo in our hearts. We too are invited to participate in this grand and glorious mission. The question is, how will we respond? Will we allow fear or feelings of inadequacy to hold us back? Or will we, like the apostles of old, step out in faith, trusting in God’s power to work through us? The harvest remains abundant, and the need is as great as ever for dedicated individuals. The Lord of the harvest is still calling, inviting ordinary individuals to join Him in the extraordinary work of saving souls. Let us not hesitate to answer His call. Let us embrace the privilege and responsibility of being co-workers with Christ, allowing His love to motivate our actions and His Spirit to empower our efforts. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of the gospel, and may we labor faithfully until the work is finished and Christ returns. For as the apostle John declared with unwavering conviction, “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard,” (Acts 4:20, KJV). This is our calling, our purpose, and our enduring hope. The apostles’ legacy inspires faithful service. The Bible supports this with “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58, KJV) and “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)” (Hebrews 10:23, KJV). Sr. White reinforces this: “The experience of the disciples who preached the ‘gospel of the kingdom’ at the first advent of Christ, had its counterpart in the experience of those who proclaimed the message of His second advent.” (The Great Controversy, p. 351, 1911) and “The work begun on the day of Pentecost is to receive the former rain, but the latter rain will be more abundant.” (Evangelism, p. 701, 1946).

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. (1 Corinthians 3:9, KJV)

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PEOPLE OF THE BOOK

CO-WORKERS WITH CHRIST!

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