The Work Begins

Aim: To labor as the church for the glory of Christ (in this world).

Doctrine: The church's ministry has a domino effect on everyone and everything. It starts at the top, with God, and it ends by impacting the whole world.

Exegesis: Some characteristics of the church's work in a fallen universe: it is led by Spirit-called clergymen (v. 1); it spreads to the greater congregation (vv. 2-4); it is resisted by some in the covenant (v. 5).

Further application: How we may joyfully serve our Lord in the world today: by recognizing just how important His work really is, and by persisting in it wholeheartedly.

Key verse: v. 5 ''Next to them the Tekoites made repairs; but their nobles did not put their shoulders to the work of their Lord.''