To Minister

The word “minister” is used three ways in Scripture. Those in authority in a national entity are called ministers of God and includes believers and unbelievers. An example is a judge ministering a divine institution. Rom. 13:4.

“for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.”  (Romans 13:4, NASB)

Every believer is a minister. 2 Cor. 3:6; 2 Cor. 4:1; 2 Cor. 6:4.

“who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”  (2 Corinthians 3:6, NASB)

“Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart,”  (2 Corinthians 4:1, NASB)

“but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses,”  (2 Corinthians 6:4, NASB)

The pastor-teacher of a local church as a specialized operation is a minister. The context will determine which one is intended.  Eph. 3:7; Eph. 6:21; Col. 1:23; Col. 4:7.

“of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power.”  (Ephesians 3:7, NASB)

“But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you.”  (Ephesians 6:21, NASB)

“if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.”  (Colossians 1:23, NASB)

“As to all my affairs, Tychicus, our beloved brother and faithful servant and fellow bond-servant in the Lord, will bring you information.”  (Colossians 4:7, NASB)