Monday's Message: Addicted to the Ministry

When we take into true account of the value of what we do here on earth for the Lord Jesus Christ, for His glory, and for His cause, and in obedience to Him, will count for all eternity;  I think we all would conclude that there is nothing more important or more valuable.  As it has eternal value, which is far greater than earthly or temporal.

There is a phrase in our text for this study that is amazing of what the house of Stephanas did to keep their minds, hearts, and spirits on the path of service for Christ; or the ministry.

I Corinthians 16:15  “I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)”

What a great thing to do!  They addicted themselves to the ministry [or to the service] of the saints. [or Christians in the church of Acahaia.]

Most often, when we use or think of the word addict, or addicted; it is in a bad sense.  Addicted to intemperance, addicted to narcotics, alcohol, tobacco, etc.

But the word addict, or to become addicted means: To apply one's self habitually; to devote time and attention by customary or constant practice.

If one is addicted to a drug, or simply has a bad habit of lying, or swearing, they have applied themselves habitually, or done something day after day after day, and several times a day.

Often, when it comes to tobacco or alcohol, the first several times make one very sick; as the body is trying to reject it.  But they want to do it for acceptance, for image, etc.   So they get past the sickness, and continue to do a thing, until it becomes habit, second nature.

If so many will and have done this for such things as these; why could we not take the path of the house of Stephanas, who addicted themselves to the ministry; or they ministered to the needs of others day after day, week after week, month after month, until it became a very good and blessed habit; to serve others by habit, or second nature.

Could we not do this for reading the word of God, and praying?  Could we not do this for going to church when the doors are open?  Could we not develop such godly habits, weighing the value of our faithful obedience to the Lord, and our service to Him?