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"As I urged you..."

Text: 1 Timothy 1:3

MINISTRY CHALLENGES

Ministry for the Lord is never simple or straight-forward. Challenges are to be expected at all times!

1. Initial challenges

The apostle Paul faced many challenges when he went into the Mission field. The following challenges were experienced whenever a new ministry commenced.

a) Resistance must be expected.

b) Strong opposition at times.

c) There may even be danger to life and limb.

2. Along the way

Other problems cropped up along the way. The following may be highlighted:-

a) The opposition may increase.

i) The enemies become more organised.

ii) They become more vicious too.

b) False teachers join in the fray.

i) They take advantage of every situation that can be exploited.

ii) The weak and the young are most vulnerable of all.

AN URGENT REQUEST

The apostle planted many churches. While this may be exciting, many were the challenges faced! But Paul was just one person. He would badly need help to sustain his ministry! But who possessed the necessary skill sets to deal with problems that came up?

“As I urged you when I went into Macedonia-
Remain in Ephesus…”
1 Timothy 1:3

1. Ministry in Macedonia

a) Paul had an extensive ministry.

b) He went where the Spirit of God would send him.

c) He obeyed most faithfully.

2. Ministry in Ephesus

a) Paul could not be in two places at one time.

b) He “urged” Timothy to stay on in Ephesus while he went to Macedonia.

c) The word “urged” is really a strong plea.

d) It could be translated “I beseeched you”.