Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands

“God’s plan is that through the faithful ministry of every part, the whole body will grow to full maturity in Christ. The leaders of his church have been gifted, positioned, and appointed to train and mobilize the people of God for this “every person, everyday” ministry lifestyle.“
– Paul David Tripp

That’s the impetus behind Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands – God has designed it so that when he calls you to himself in salvation, he also calls you to be a servant of sanctification in the lives of others.

God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things in the lives of others.

That’s what the elders at Covenant Hope Church desire– every member of Covenant Hope seeking to help one another follow Jesus better. When everyone is committed to this “every person, everyday” ministry lifestyle the whole culture of the church is transformed.

Our relationships with one another will reflect the transforming relationship Christ has established with us. So rather than shallow, casual relationships, we’ll work for deeper, redemptive relationships that God uses for lasting change in our lives.

What does that look like?

One crucial aspect is recognizing that we do all that we do because of our hearts (Luke 6:43-45). Whatever rules over our hearts, rules us. So for our relationships to be deep and redemptive then the heart must be the target.

Become a Good Question Asker

In our conversations, we must seek to go beyond circumstances, situations, and relationships to what is going on in the heart. How is your brother or sister experiencing their circumstances, situations, or relationships?

Take time to listen carefully to one another, pay close attention to what is going on below the surface, and don’t assume; ask questions to understand how they are processing.

Sometimes just asking good questions is doing the work of ministry. Through good questions, we help people to see themselves in the light of God’s word. Good questions do more than help us get to know one another, they uncover where change is truly needed.

Lead Them to the Redeemer

But remember, we aren’t the Redeemer, we’re just his instruments! We can identify with them in their struggles, show compassion in suffering, and be gracious with their sins. So listen carefully, but then lead them back to the Lord Jesus, Our Great Redeemer. Remind them of his promises. Point them to his love. Walk with them in his ways. Comfort them with his salvation. Look forward to his coming.

As we behold more and more of Him together He is transforming us into His image, from one degree of glory to another (2 Cor. 3:18).

With love,
Mark Donald