Many Adversaries 2

1 Corinthians 16:9: For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

The Apostle Paul recognized that great opportunities to serve the Lord were accompanied by many adversaries. It seems to work that way in my life too. The more my ministries flourish the more adversaries and hindrances I encounter. He was not complaining about the adversaries. He was rejoicing about the great opportunities and knew there was a connection between the two.

Clarke:

God gave him a grand opportunity to preach the Gospel; but he was not to expect that either Satan or wicked men would leave him unmolested.

Barnes:

That such a work of grace, such a setting open of a great and effectual door, is often the occasion of increased opposition to the gospel. It is no uncommon thing that the adversaries of Christ should be excited at such times; and we are not to be surprised if the same thing should occur now which occurred in the time of Paul.

This was regarded by Paul as no reason why he should leave Ephesus, but rather as a reason why he should remain there. It was regarded by him as an evidence that the Holy Spirit was there. It was proof that the enemies of God were alarmed, and that the kingdom of Christ was advancing. His presence also would be needed there, to encourage and strengthen the young converts who would be attacked and opposed; and he deemed it his duty to remain. A minister should never wish to make enemies to the gospel, nor seek to excite them to make opposition; but such opposition is often evidence that the Spirit of God is among a people; that the consciences of sinners are aroused and alarmed; and that the great enemy of God and man is making, as he was at Ephesus, a desperate effort to preserve his kingdom from being destroyed.

A minister (servant) should regard it as his duty in a special manner to be among his people when there is such opposition excited. His presence is needed to comfort and encourage the church; and when the minds of men are excited, it is often the best time to present truth, and to defend successfully the great doctrines of the Bible.

Ministers should not be discouraged because there is opposition to the gospel. It is one ground of encouragement. It is an indication of the presence of God in awakening the conscience. And it is far more favourable as a season to do good than a dead calm, and when there is universal stagnation and unconcern.

We should not be troubled when people and circumstances seem to hinder our serving the Lord. God has plenty of power to overcome those things. Adversaries are not a reason to give up and quit serving the Lord.

1 Corinthians 15:57: But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:4: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

If you don*t have adversaries, you are probably not serving the Lord.

You may contact Ron with questions, comments or prayer requests via email at ronsbibletopics@yahoo.com.

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