And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Col. 3:17)
When we serve “in the name of the Lord Jesus” we not only have His power and authority for ministry but also an example to follow. We have a Standard for ALL we do which means ministry methodology conforms to Him, not to the ways of the world or what’s comfortable for us.
Ways Doing All in Jesus’ Name Affects Ministry Methodology
1) We focus on what is most important.
Jesus taught about love being the Greatest Commandments but He also consistently focused on serving people out of love, not controlling or manipulating them by what He did.
Lessons for us:
- Do keep love a top priority. Methods are important but they are not most important. Jesus said that everything, even the law and prophets, should be wrapped up in loving God and loving people (Matt. 22:36-40).
- Don’t let methods divide.
2) We’re purposeful in what we do.
Jesus lived so that people would better understand and know the Father. He knew when it was time to make changes to better fulfill that purpose (Mk. 1:35-39).
Lessons for us:
- Do showcase the Lord and His love in all you do.
- Don’t let the method become more important than the Message.
3) We’re other-centered in what we do.
Jesus excelled at meeting people where they were. He knew people were at different places developmentally and spiritually and responded accordingly.
Lessons for us:
- Do remember that not everybody is like you! People think and learn differently from one another.
- Don’t do something a certain way just because it is comfortable or convenient for you.
4) We use variety.
Jesus used different means of healing, teaching, discipling, and relating with people throughout His ministry. He did not always heal the same way. He did not always teach the same way.
Lessons for us:
- Do employ some creativity in ministry. There are often many ways to accomplish the same objective.
- Don’t get stuck in a rut.
Let’s not get so caught up in our methodology that we feel we can’t change even when the method no longer works effectively. Let’s trust God to be at work in and through us rather than rely on methodology. That will happen when we do whatever we do in the name of the Lord Jesus.
More for Church Leaders: Church’s Power – The Name of the Lord