ARE YOU A PILLAR?

ARE YOU A PILLAR?

Gal 2:9

9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

          Paul and Barnabas had gone to Jerusalem a second time to meet with the leaders there because there were some who had questioned Paul’s ministry. We see this in verses 4 through 6. When they arrived they saw James, Cephas (Peter) and John. It was clear that these were stulos which in the Greek means “to stiffen” or the base of a post or a support. They just stood out in their leadership. It was obvious. What caused these three to be so prominent?

          First, I think Peter, James and John had spent some very special times with Jesus. These three saw him transfigured in Matthew 17:1, 2. These three had been invited to “watch” while the rest slept as Jesus sweat great drops of blood in prayer. Yes, these three were the inner circle but for us there are the following considerations.

1.     Pillars must be solid! They must be made of firm stuff for they will be called upon to bear a heavy load. I think one of the things incumbent upon a pillar is that he be able to ignore his own concerns and replace those with the concerns of the church.

2.     Pillars must be upright! Any bend or twist in character will result in a fault when the earth begins to rumble beneath them. A pillar must not lean.

3.     Pillars need a sure foundation! The “Rock of Ages” is recommended for a sure footing.

I am pleased to have many “pillars” in our local church. These are men and women who are rock solid and dependable. I can count on them. Many times they are so dependable as to be taken for granted, ignored or little thanked. Yet they remain steadfast because they are not seeking recognition but stability.

Heb 6:10

10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

Dear Lord, honor all those today who honor you. AMEN