Fulfill Your Ministry

"And say to Archippus, 'Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.'" — Colossians 4:17 (NKJV)

The word "ministry" in Paul's letter derives from the Greek diakonia, meaning servant or minister. This term appears 34 times throughout the New Testament, encompassing various forms of service: practical help like Martha serving household guests (Luke 10:40), financial and material support, spiritual gifts in action (1 Corinthians 12:5), gospel preaching (Acts 20:24), and other specific assignments.

Ministry is a calling—assigned, not assumed. Archippus received his from the Lord. It is specific, not generic. It requires intentionality and must be fulfilled, completed.

Ministry is service, not status. It isn't reserved exclusively for pastors, preachers, full-time Christian workers, or those with theological degrees. Your ministry might be using professional skills to serve God's purposes, raising children in the fear of the Lord, caring for elderly or sick relatives, teaching, encouraging, giving, showing mercy, offering hospitality, or serving through administration and helps like ushering.

Now notice what Paul says to Archippus: "Take heed to the ministry you have received... that you may fulfill it." He doesn't say, "Congratulations on your ministry," or "You're doing great—keep it up." The language carries urgency, suggesting Archippus might quit, abandon his post, become distracted or sidetracked, or leave the work unfinished. Paul's words call for vigilance.

These warnings are for all of us. Discover your assignment and stay with it until completion. Follow the example of Paul himself, who remained faithful to his calling as a messenger to the Gentiles and declared, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7, NKJV).

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, grant me grace to discover my ministry and remain faithful to fulfill it completely.