5 Smooth Stones

When the apostles were brought before the rulers in Acts 4, it was because of a notable miracle. But the miracle did not convince the judges, what they took note of was “that these men had been with Jesus.” The fi rst impression received from an apostle might well be “that person has been with Jesus.” Paul said it best, pointing out that every apostle is not an apostle to every other person, “If I am not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you...” (1 Corinthians 9:2). When it comes to the signs of apostleship - character comes fi rst. Ma tt hew 23:11 states, “But he that is greatest [chief] among you shall be your servant.” ENDNOTES: 5 The Holy Bible, King James Version. New York: American Bible Society: 1999; Bartleby.com, 2000. www.bartleby.com/108/. [March, 2018]. 6 I sometimes jokingly say that we should prefer for people to become believers before they become leaders. Do you get my point? 7 Once I was crying out to the Lord about a particular minister who had become somewhat of a “thorn in the fl esh” to me in a number of ways. I was surprised when the Lord answered me by saying that He used arrogant, controlling people to get work done all the time. I had poured my heart out and ample resources establishing the work of ministry in an Asian nation where the Lord had sent me. Later another minister, who called himself an apostle, came in and drew many after himself, teaching things which seemed good and helpful, but were contrary to the foundations which we had laid both apostolically and prophetically. In time my heart was torn as I saw the church we worked to establish follow after this man and his teachings, accepting the bribes which he o ff ered subtly so that he could show “fruit” to his contributors back home. I was troubled and I sought the Lord and He showed me a vision. In the vision I watched two carpenters come to work on a building. One worked in pride and loud boisterousness, one worked in humility of heart. At the end of the day, the Lord only paid the humble carpenter. Then I realized that the Lord, as The Master Builder, is going to put anyone to work on His building, most anyone who is willing to “swing a hammer.” But according to His own rule, if anyone does not work according to His plan, that person will have no eternal payment or inheritance (1 Corinthians 3:14, 15 13:3; 2 Timothy 2:5; Galatians 5:21 etc.).

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