4 Bible Verses about Christian Ministers

Then he saith to his disciples, The harvest indeed is great, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers for his harvest.

And he said to them, The harvest is great, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers for his harvest.

But I beseech you, by our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the love produced by the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in prayers to God for me; that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judaea, and that my service for Jerusalem may prove acceptable to the saints; so that, through the will of God, I may come to you in joy, and may with you be refreshed.

you also unitedly helping us by prayer, so that for this blessing bestowed on us by means of many, thanks may be given by many on your behalf.

praying with all prayer and entreaty at all times in the Spirit; and watching to this end with all perseverance and entreaty for all the saints, and for me, that utterance may be given me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, in behalf of which I am an ambassador in chains; that I may proclaim it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Aristarchus, my fellowprisoner, saluteth you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, concerning whom ye received directions (if he come to you, receive him),

And we beseech you, brethren, to know those who labor among you, and preside over you in the Lord, and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake. Be at peace among yourselves.

Remember your leaders, who spoke to you the word of God; and considering well the end of their manner of life, imitate their faith.

Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you with all endurance, by signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

because the gospel preached by us came not to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; as ye well know what sort of persons we became among you for your sake.

holding forth the word of life, that I may have whereof to boast against the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain, or labor in vain.

Then Paul stood up, and beckoned with his hand and said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, hearken. The God of this people chose our fathers, and he exalted the people in their sojourn in the land of Egypt, and with a high arm he brought them out of it; and for about forty years he nourished them in the wilderness. read more.
And having destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he gave them their land as a possession. And after that, for about four hundred and fifty years, he gave judges, until Samuel the prophet. And afterward they asked for a king; and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years; and having removed him, he raised up to them David to be their king, to whom he gave testimony, saying, "I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who will do all my will." From the seed of this man hath God, according to his promise, brought to Israel a Saviour, Jesus; before whose coming forward John had first preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. And as John was finishing his course, he said, Who do ye think that I am? I am not He. But lo I there cometh after me one, the sandal of whose feet I am not worthy to loose. Brethren, sons of the stock of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to you was the word of this salvation sent forth. For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, not knowing him, nor the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath, fulfilled them in condemning him. And though they found nothing deserving death in him, they asked of Pilate that he should be slain. And when they had accomplished all that was written of him, they took him down from the cross, and laid him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead, and he was seen for many days by those who came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are now his witnesses to the people. And we declare to you the glad tidings, that the promise which was made to the fathers God hath fulfilled to us their children, in raising up Jesus [from the dead]; as it is also written in the first Psalm: "Thou art my Son; I have this day begotten thee." And that he raised him up from the dead, no more to return to corruption, he hath thus spoken: "I will give you the sure holy things promised to David." Wherefore also in another Psalm he saith, "Thou wilt not suffer thy holy one to see corruption:" For David, after having in his own generation served the will of God, fell asleep, and was added to his fathers, and saw corruption; but he whom God raised from the dead did not see corruption. Be it therefore known to you, brethren, that through this man is announced to you the forgiveness of sins; and by him every one that believeth is justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. Beware therefore, lest that come upon you which is spoken in the Prophets, "Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish! for I work a work in your days, a work which ye will not believe, though one should plainly declare it to you." And as they were going out, they besought that these words might be spoken to them on the next sabbath. And when the synagogue broke up, many of the Jews and proselyte worshippers followed Paul and Barnabas; who, speaking to them, exhorted them to continue in the grace of God.

For though ye have ten thousand teachers in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I begot you through the gospel.

And they took offence at him. But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honor, except in his own country, and in his own house.

Now there were at Antioch, in the church that was there, prophets and teachers; Barnabas, and Simeon who was called Niger, and Lucius the Cyrenaean, and Manaen, the fosterbrother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? and not one of them shall fall to the ground without your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? and not one of them is forgotten before God. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Peter therefore was kept guarded in prison; but earnest prayer was made by the church to God in his behalf.

And now, Lord, look upon their threatenings, and grant to thy servants that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

And they prayed saying, Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show which of these two thou hast chosen to take the part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell away, that he might go to his own place.

Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests, and said, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him up to you? And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought an opportunity to deliver him up.

Now this man purchased a field with the wages of the iniquity; and falling headlong he burst asunder in the middle, and all his bowels gushed out.

Then Judas, who betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented, and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, I sinned in betraying innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? See thou to it. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and withdrew; and went away and hanged himself.

And as they were eating, he said, Truly do I say to you, that one of you will betray me. And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and began every one to say to him, Is it I, Lord? And he answering said, He that hath dipped his hand with me in the dish, he will betray me. read more.
The Son of man indeed goeth away, as it hath been written concerning him; but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! Well were it for that man if he had not been born. Then Judas, his betrayer, answering said, Is it I, Rabbi? He saith to him, It is.

And while he was yet speaking, lo! Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and elders of the people. And his betrayer had given them a sign, saying, Whomever I shall kiss, he is the man; seize him. And immediately going up to Jesus, he said, Hail, Rabbi! and kissed him. read more.
And Jesus said to him, Friend, for what hast thou come! Then they came and laid hands on Jesus, and seized him.

they have forsaken the right way, and have gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness, but was rebuked for his iniquity; the dumb ass, speaking with mans voice, restrained the madness of the prophet.

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, sober, discreet, orderly, hospitable, apt in teaching;

Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.

Have we not a right to carry about with us a sister as a wife, as well as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?

And when Jesus had come into Peters house, he saw his wifes mother lying sick of a fever.

And when they set themselves against him, and reviled, he shook his garments, and said to them, Your blood be upon your own heads! I am clean; from this time I will go to the gentiles.

And whoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye go out of that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. Truly do I say to you, It will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city. Lo! I send you forth as sheep into the midst of wolves. Be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. read more.
But beware of men. For they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, that ye may bear testimony to them and to the gentiles. But when they deliver you up, be not anxious as to how or What ye shall speak; for it will be given you in that hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father that speaketh in you. And brother will deliver up brother to death, and the father his child; and children will rise up against their parent, and put them to death; and ye will be hated by all on account of my name. But he that endureth to the end will be saved. And when they persecute you in one city, flee to another. For truly do I say to you, Ye will not have gone over the cities of Israel till the Son of man hath come. A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple to be as his teacher, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they so call those of his household! Fear them not therefore. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed; and hid, that will not be known. What I say to you in darkness, speak ye in the light; and what ye hear in the ear, proclaim ye upon the housetops. And fear not those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? and not one of them shall fall to the ground without your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows. Every one therefore who shall acknowledge me before men, him will I also acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven. But whoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father who is in heaven. Think not that I came to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I came to set a man at variance with his father, and a daughter with her mother, and a bride with her motherinlaw; and they of a mans own household will be his foes. He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that doth not take his cross, and follow me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life will lose it; and he that loseth his life for my sake will find it. He that receiveth you, receiveth me; and he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me.

Wherefore I testify to you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men; for I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.

And he spoke many things to them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them. And others fell upon rocky places, where they had not much earth; and they sprung up immediately, because they had no depth of earth. read more.
But when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And others fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up, and choked them. And others fell upon good ground; and yielded fruit, some a hundred fold, some Sixty, some thirty fold.

Hearken: Behold, a sower went forth to sow. And it came to pass, as he sowed some seeds fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them. And others fell on rocky ground, where they had not much earth; and they sprung up immediately, because they had no depth of earth. read more.
But when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And others fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up, and choked them, and they yielded no fruit. And others fell on good ground, and shooting up and growing yielded fruit; and bore as much as thirty, and sixty, and a hundred fold. And he said, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And when he was in private, they who were about him, with the twelve, asked him about the parables. And he said to them, To you hath been given the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to them, who are without, all things are done in parables; t hat seeing they may see, and not perceive, and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest they should turn, and be forgiven. And he saith to them, Know ye not this parable? and how will ye know all the parables? The sower soweth the word. And these are they by the wayside, those where the word is sown, and when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in them. And these in like manner are they that are sown on the rocky places, those, who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with joy, and have no root in themselves, but endure only for a time; then, when affliction or persecution ariseth on account of the word, they immediately fall away. And others are they that are sown among the thorns; these are they who hear the word, but the cares of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. And these are they who are sown on the good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it; and bear fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundred fold.

A sower went forth to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some seeds fell by the wayside; and they were trodden down, and the birds of the air devoured them. And others fell upon rocky ground; and when they had sprung up they withered away, because they had no moisture. And others fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up with them, and choked them. read more.
And others fell upon good ground, and sprung up, and bore fruit, a hundredfold. While saying these things, he cried aloud, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

And they who seized Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the highpriest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.

Ye know that after two days cometh the passover; and the Son of man is delivered up to be crucified. Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the court of the palace of the highpriest, named Caiaphas;

But Jesus was silent. And the highpriest answering said to him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou art the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus saith to him, I am. Moreover I say to you, Henceforth ye will see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven. Then the highpriest rent his garments, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? See! ye have now heard the blasphemy.

And a certain one of them, Caiaphas, being highpriest that year, said to them, Ye know nothing at all; nor do ye consider that it is expedient for us that one man die for the people, and not the whole nation perish. And this he spoke not from himself; but being highpriest that year he prophesied that Jesus was about to die for the nation;

And it was Caiaphas who counseled the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.

But Peter seeing it, answered the people: Men of Israel, why wonder ye at this? Or why look ye earnestly on us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man to walk? The God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his servant Jesus, whom ye indeed delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. But ye denied the holy and righteous one, and asked that a murderer should be granted to you. read more.
But the author of life ye killed; whom God raised from the dead, whereof we are witnesses. And his name, through faith in his name, made this man strong, whom ye see and know; yea, the faith which is through him gave him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. And now, brethren, I know that ye acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. But God thus fulfilled what he had before announced by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ should suffer. Repent therefore and turn from your ways, that your sins may be blotted out, in order that the times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send forth Christ Jesus, who was before appointed for you; whom heaven indeed must receive until the times of a restoration of all things; of which times God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from the days of old. Moses indeed said, "A prophet will the Lord your God raise up to you from among your brethren, as be raised up me; him shall ye hear in all things, whatever he shall speak to you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul which doth not hear that prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people." And all the prophets also, Samuel and those who followed, as many as spoke, announced these days. Ye are the sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, "And in thy posterity shall all the families of the earth be blessed." To you first, God, having raised up his servant, sent him to bless you in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.

If we are this day examined in respect to a good deed done to a cripple, by what means he hath been restored, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead,by him doth this man stand here before you sound. This is the stone which was set at nought by you the builders, which is become a cornerstone. read more.
And there is salvation in no other; for there is not another name under heaven, that hath been given among men, by which we must be saved. And when they beheld the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and common men, they wondered; and they recognized them as having been with Jesus.

But Peter and John answered and said to them, Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken to you rather than to God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we saw and heard.

And hearing this, they went into the temple at daybreak and taught. But the highpriest and they that were with him came and called together the council, and all the elders of the sons of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

Brethren, be ye followers together of me, and mark those who walk as ye have us for an example.

Not because we have not authority, but to make ourselves an example to you, that ye should imitate us.

Let no one despise thy youth, but become an example to the believers, in word, in behavior, in love, in faith, in purity.

not as lording it over your allotted charge, but being examples to the flock;

and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain Jews; to those under the Law, as under the Law, not being myself under the Law, that I might gain those under the Law; to those without the Law, as without the Law, being not without a law before God, but under the law of Christ, that I might gain those without the Law; to the weak I became weak, that I might gain the weak; I have become all things to all, that I might by all means save some. read more.
And I do all for the sake of the gospel, that I may with others partake of it.

All things are lawful, but all things are not profitable; all things are lawful, but all things are not edifying.

But if any one say to you, This hath been offered in sacrifice to an idol, do not eat of it, on account of him that showed you this, and from a regard to conscience; conscience I mean, not thine own, but that of the other. For why is my liberty to be judged by another conscience [than my own]? If I partake with thankfulness, why am I to be evil spoken of in a matter for which I give thanks? read more.
Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give no occasion of stumbling either to Jews or Greeks, or to the church of God; as I also strive to please all in all things, not seeking my own advantage, but that of the many; that they may be saved.

But be it so; I at least was not a charge to you; but yet, being crafty, I caught you with guile.

Then there were brought to him children, that be might lay his hands on them, and pray; and the disciples rebuked them.

And they brought children to him, that he might touch them; and the disciples rebuked those that brought them.

And they brought to him infants also, that he might touch them; and the disciples, on seeing it, rebuked them.

But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying Send her away, for she is crying out after us.

But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him on account of Herodias the wife of his brother, and on account of all the evil deeds which Herod had done,

saying, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of through Isaiah the prophet, saying, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths!" And John himself had his raiment of camels hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his food was locusts and wild honey. read more.
Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the country about the Jordan; and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. But seeing many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to be baptized, he said to them, Brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance, and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham for our father; for I say to you, that God is able out of these stones to raise up children to Abraham. And already is the axe lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that beareth not good fruit is to be cut down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you in water, for repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to bear; he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and in fire. His winnowingshovel is in his hand, and he will thoroughly cleanse his threshingfloor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but the chaff he will burn up with unquenchable fire.

For John had said to Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brothers wife. And Herodias was enraged against him, and wished to put him to death, but could not. For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and was regardful of him; and on hearing him, was in much anxiety, and listened to him gladly. read more.
And a convenient day having come, when Herod on his birthday made a supper for his nobles and chief captains and the principal men of Galilee, and the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and those at table with him; and the king said to the damsel, Ask of me whatever thou wilt, and I will give it thee. And he swore to her, Whatever thou shalt ask of me, I will give thee, to the half of my kingdom. And she went out and said to her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptizer. And she came in immediately with haste to the king, and asked, saying, I desire that thou wilt give me immediately on a platter the head of John the Baptist. And the king was exceedingly sorry; but on account of his oaths, and of those at table with him, he would not refuse her. And the king immediately sent one of his guards, and ordered his head to be brought. And he went and beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the damsel; and the damsel gave it to her mother.

He said therefore to the multitudes that came forth to be baptized by him, Brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance; and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham for our father; for I say to you, that God is able out of these stones to raise up children to Abraham. And already also is the axe lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that beareth not good fruit is to be cut down, and cast into the fire.

And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep. He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my sheep. Truly, truly do I say to thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldst; but when thou hast grown old, thou wilt stretch forth thy hands, and another will gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst not.

In the mean time, when the multitude was gathered together in myriads, so that they trod one upon another, he began to say to his disciples first, Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

Woe to you, blind guides, that say, Whoever sweareth by the temple, it is nothing; but whoever sweareth by the gold of the temple, is bound.

And Jesus said to them, Take heed, and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we took no bread. And Jesus knowing it, said, Why are ye reasoning among yourselves, ye of little faith, because ye took no bread? read more.
Do ye not yet understand, nor remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? How is it that ye do not understand, that I spoke not to you of loaves? But [I said] Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Then they understood, that he did not bid them beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

so having a strong affection for you, we were willing to impart to you, not only the gospel of God, but also our own souls, because ye became dear to us.

even as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, all of you being sharers of the grace bestowed on me.

We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and perseverance in the hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, before God our Father; since we know, brethren beloved of God, that he hath chosen you;

as ye know how we exhorted, and encouraged, and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,

And Moses indeed was faithful in all his house as a servant, that he might testify of those things which were to be spoken;

who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also was Moses in all his house.

And there came down certain men from Judaea, and taught the brethren, Unless ye are circumcised after the custom of Moses, ye cannot be saved.

Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers for his harvest.

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy the brother, to Philemon our beloved friend and fellowlaborer,

Wherefore I testify to you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men; for I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.

even as ye learned from Epaphras our beloved fellowservant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf;

Yet I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and minister to my wants;

Endure hardship with me as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier entangleth himself with the affairs of life, that he may please him who chose him to be a soldier.

But ye will receive power when the Holy Spirit hath come upon you; and ye will be my witnesses, both in Jerusalem and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

And we are his witnesses of these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit which God hath given to those who obey him.

But arise and stand upon thy feet; for I have appeared to thee for this purpose, to prepare thee as a minister and a witness both of the things which thou sawest, and of those on account of which I will appear to thee;

And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

And they all wept sorely, and fell on Pauls neck, and kissed him; sorrowing most of all for the word which he had spoken, that they were to see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship.

And when we had completed the days, we departed, and went our way, they all accompanying us, with wives and children, till we were out of the city; and having kneeled down on the shore and prayed, we took leave of each other, and went on board the ship; and they returned home.

of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I delivered to Satan, that they might be taught not to blaspheme.

and their word will eat as doth a canker; of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus,

of which I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God, given to me according to the effectual working of his power.

if ye indeed continue in the faith grounded and settled, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye heard, which hath been preached in the whole creation under heaven; of which I Paul became a minister.

that I should be a minister of Christ Jesus to the gentiles, performing the office of a priest in respect to the gospel of God, that the oblation of the gentiles may be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

Let a man so account us, as servants of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

but as Gods ministers recommending ourselves in all things, in much endurance, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, together with the bishops and deacons:

Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to the called, loved in God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ:

But be thou watchful in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fully accomplish thy ministry.

And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

But do thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

And when it was day, he called to him his disciples; and he chose from them twelve, whom he also named apostles;

Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye saints and ye apostles and ye prophets! for God hath avenged you on her.

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor; especially they who labor in the word and in teaching.

The elders among you I exhort, who am a fellowelder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, who am also a sharer in the glory that is to be revealed;

Then, fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus also with me. And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the gentiles; but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. But not even Titus, who was with me, though he was a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised; read more.
and that because of the false brethren stealthily brought in, who crept in to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring into bondage; to whom not even for an hour did we yield by the required subjection, that the truth of the gospel might still remain with you. But from those who were reputed to be somewhatwhatever they were, it matters not to me, (God accepteth no mans person,) for to me those in reputation communicated nothing new. But on the contrary, when they saw that I was intrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, as Peter was with that to the circumcised, (for he who wrought for Peter in behalf of the apostleship to the circumcised, wrought also for me in behalf of the gentiles,) and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised;

But when it pleased him who set me apart from my very birth, and called me through his grace, to reveal his Son within me, that I might publish the glad tidings of him among the gentiles, immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood, neither did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. read more.
Then, after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to become acquainted with Cephas, and stayed with him fifteen days; but no other of the apostles did I see, save James the brother of the Lord. Now as to what I am writing to you, behold, before God, I do not lie. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; and I was unknown by face to the churches of Judaea which were in Christ; but they were only hearing that "He who was once our persecutor is now preaching the faith which he was once destroying"; and they glorified God in me.

How then shall they call on him, in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him, of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

whereunto I was appointed a herald and an apostle, (I speak the truth, I lie not,) a teacher of the gentiles in faith and truth.

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Christ Jesus, for the faith of Gods elect, and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness,

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.

And he saith to them, Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.

And Jesus said to them, Come after me, and I will cause you to become fishers of men.

And he immediately constrained his disciples to get into the boat, and to go before to the other side to Bethsaida, while he sent the multitude away.

And he saith to them, Come ye by yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while. For there were many coming and going; and they had no leisure, even to eat. And they went away into a desert place in the boat apart.

the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches; and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.

To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks:

the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches; and the seven candlesticks are the seven churches.

To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks:

And Barnabas determined to take with them John, called Mark.

And there arose a sharp contention, so that they parted from each other, and Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus.

and not that only, but who was also appointed by the churches as our fellowtraveler in the matter of this bounty, which is administered by us to the honor of the Lord himself, and of our ready mind;

As to Titus, he is my partner and fellowlaborer for you; as to our brethren, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ.

They therefore received his word, and were baptized; and there were added on that day about three thousand souls.

And on the day of Pentecost they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came out of heaven a sound, as of a rushing mighty wind; and it filled the whole house where they were sitting; and there appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributing themselves; and one sat upon each of them. read more.
And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, even as the Spirit gave them utterance.

And a certain Jew, named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught correctly the things concerning Jesus, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But Aquila and Priscilla having heard him, took him to them, and set forth to him the way [of the Lord] more fully. read more.
And when he wished to go over into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to give him welcome; and when he was come, he gave much aid to those who had believed through grace. For he publicly confuted the Jews, with power, showing by the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.

And the multitudes with one accord gave heed to the things spoken by Philip, when they heard and saw the signs which he wrought.

But when they believed Philip, publishing the glad tidings concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

And there was great joy in that city.

And he took them with him at that hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and he was immediately baptized, himself and all that belonged to him. And when he had brought them up into his house, he set food before them, and rejoiced with all his house, having become a believer in God.

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up instead that which is wanting of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh on behalf of his body, which is the church; of which I became a minister, according to the stewardship which God entrusted to me, for you, to fulfill the word of God,

and their word will eat as doth a canker; of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have erred concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection hath already taken place, and overthrow the faith of some.

Yet I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and minister to my wants; for he was longing after you all, and was much troubled, because ye heard that he was sick. For indeed he was sick near to death; but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. read more.
I send him therefore the more speedily, that when ye see him ye may again rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such in honor; because he was near to death on account of the work, hazarding his life to supply what was wanting on your part in the ministration to me.

Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, saluteth you, always striving for you in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God. For I bear him witness, that he hath much labor for you, and those that are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis.

But thanks be to God, who put the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus; for he accepted indeed the exhortation; but being very earnest, he went of his own accord to you.

But if any one build upon this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble, the work of every one will be made manifest; for the day will show it; because it is revealed in fire; and the fire itself will prove what every ones work is. If the work which any one built thereon remaineth, he will receive reward; read more.
if any ones work shall be burned up, he will lose the reward; but he will be saved himself, yet as one escaping through fire.

And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. And when they had come to him, he said to them: Ye yourselves know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you the whole time, serving the Lord with all humility, and with tears, and trials which befell me by the plots of the Jews; read more.
how I kept back nothing that was profitable, but have made it known to you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house; testifying to both Jews and Greeks repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus. And now behold, I go, bound in my spirit, to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will befall me there; save that the Holy Spirit witnesseth to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. But I count life of no value to me, so that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the glad tidings of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will see my face no more. Wherefore I testify to you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men; for I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departure grievous wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock. And from among yourselves will men arise speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be watchful, and remember that for the space of three years, night and day, I ceased not to warn every one with tears. And now I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, who is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all the sanctified. I have coveted no mans silver, or gold, or apparel. Ye yourselves know, that these hands ministered to my necessities, and to those that were with me. In all ways I showed you that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. And having thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they all wept sorely, and fell on Pauls neck, and kissed him; sorrowing most of all for the word which he had spoken, that they were to see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship.

Yet in like manner these dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and rail at dignities. Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the Devil he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a railing accusation, but said: The Lord rebuke thee. But these rail at the things which they know not; but what things they understand naturally, as brute beasts, in these they corrupt themselves.

But the highpriest and all that were with him, which is the sect of the Sadducees, rose up and were filled with indignation, and laid hands on the apostles, and put them in the public prison. But an angel of the Lord in the night opened the prisondoors, and brought them forth and said, read more.
Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And hearing this, they went into the temple at daybreak and taught. But the highpriest and they that were with him came and called together the council, and all the elders of the sons of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But the officers that came did not find them in the prison; and they returned and brought word, saying, The prison we found shut in all security and the keepers standing at the doors: but when we opened them, we found no one within. And when the priest, and the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these words, they were at a loss concerning them, to what this would come. But one came and brought them word, Lo! the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence, that they might not be stoned; for they feared the people. And having brought them, they set them before the council. And the highpriest questioned them, saying, We strictly commanded you not to teach in this name, and lo! ye have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and mean to bring this mans blood upon us. But Peter and the apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew by hanging him on a cross; him hath God exalted by his right hand, as a Leader and Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit which God hath given to those who obey him. But when they heard this, they were filled with rage, and were resolving to kill them. But there stood up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, in high esteem with all the people, and commanded to put the men forth a little while, and said to them [of the council], Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves as to what ye are about to do in respect to these men. For before these days arose Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain, and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and came to nought. After this man arose Judas the Galilaean, in the days of the registering, and drew people away after him; he also perished, and all, as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say to you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone; for if this design or this work be of men, it will come to nought; but if it be of God, ye will not be able to overthrow them; lest haply ye be found also fighting against God. And they were persuaded by him; and having called the apostles, they beat them, and commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and released them. They therefore went away from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame in behalf of that name; and every day, in the temple, and in houses, they ceased not to teach, and to publish the glad tidings concerning Jesus the Christ.

And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to apprehend Peter also; (then were the days of unleavened bread;) and he seized him and put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after the passover to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept guarded in prison; but earnest prayer was made by the church to God in his behalf. read more.
And when Herod was about to bring him forth, on that night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and keepers before the door were guarding the prison. And lo! an angel of the Lord came to him, and a light shone in the room; and he smote Peter on the side, and roused him, saying, Rise up quickly. And his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals; and he did so. And he saith to him, Throw thy garment round thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he saw a vision. And when they had passed the first, and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leadeth to the city, which opened to them of itself; and they went out and passed on through one street, and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, Now I know certainly, that the Lord hath sent forth his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And when he understood the matter, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, surnamed Mark, where many were gathered together, and praying. And as he knocked at the door of the gate, a maidservant came to listen, named Rhoda; and recognizing Peters voice, she opened not the gate for gladness; but ran in, and told them that Peter was standing before the gate. And they said to her, Thou art mad. But she positively affirmed that it was even so. Then they said, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking; and opening the door, they saw him, and were amazed. But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place. And when it was day, there was no small commotion among the soldiers, as to what had become of Peter. And Herod, when he had sought for him and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be led away [to execution]. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and there abode.

And it came to pass, that as Peter went through the whole country, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had lain on a bed eight years, and was palsied. And Peter said to him, Aeneas, Jesus the Christ healeth thee; arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. read more.
And all that dwelt in Lydda and Sharon saw him; and they turned to the Lord.

And on the morrow we departed, and came to Caesarea; and entering the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, we stayed with him. And this man had four daughters, virgins, who prophesied. And while we were staying some days longer, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus;

And having escaped, we learned that the island was called Melita. And the barbarians showed us no little kindness; for they kindled a fire, and received us all, because of the rain which had come on, and because of the cold. And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid it on the fire, there came forth a viper by reason of the heat, and fastened on his hand. read more.
And when the barbarians saw the animal hanging from his hand, they said to one another, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom though he hath escaped the sea, Justice hath not permitted to live. He, however, shaking off the animal into the fire suffered no harm. But they were looking for his becoming swollen, or suddenly falling down dead. But after looking a great while, and seeing no harm come to him they changed their minds, and said that he was a god. And in the neighborhood of that place were lands be longing to the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who welcomed us, and entertained us kindly three days. And it happened that the father of Publius was lying sick with a fever and dysentery; to whom Paul went in, and, when he had prayed, laid his hands on him, and healed him. And when this was done, the others also who had diseases in the island came, and were healed; who also honored us with many honors, and when we put to sea, loaded us with such things as were necessary.

But Simon, seeing that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles hands, offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him, Thy money perish with thee! because thou didst think to obtain the gift of God with money. read more.
Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if haply the thought of thy heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.

And when they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they found a certain magian, a Jewish false prophet, whose name was Barjesus, who was with the proconsul of the country, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. He, having called for Barnabas and Saul, desired to hear the word of God. But Elymas the magian (for so is his name interpreted) withstood them, seeking so turn away the proconsul from the faith. read more.
But Saul (who is also called Paul), filled with the Holy Spirit, fixed his eyes on him and said, O full of all deceit, and of all mischief, son of the Devil, enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou wilt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and darkness; and going about he sought to find some who would lead him by the hand.

But Simon, seeing that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles hands, offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him, Thy money perish with thee! because thou didst think to obtain the gift of God with money. read more.
Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if haply the thought of thy heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.

But if the ministration of death, engraven in letters on stones, was so glorious, that the children of Israel could not look steadfastly on the face of Moses by reason of the glory of his countenance, which glory was to be done away, shall not the ministration of the Spirit be much more glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation had glory, much greater is the glory of the ministration of righteousness. read more.
For even that which was made glorious hath ceased to be glorious in this respect, by reason of the glory by which it is exceeded. For if that which was to be done away was glorious, much more glorious is that which endureth.

I urged Titus to go to you, and with him I sent the brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit? Did we not walk in the same steps?

And he came to Derbe and Lystra; and lo! a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a believing Jewess, but whose father was a Greek; who was well a spoken of by the brethren in Lystra and Iconium. Him Paul wished to go forth with him, and took and circumcised him on account of the Jews who were in those places; for they all knew that his father was a Greek. read more.
And as they journeyed through the cities, they delivered to them for their observance the decrees which had been ordained by the apostles and elders that were at Jerusalem.

And while they were ministering to the Lord, and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them. Then, after they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

But before their arrival a certain man, named Simon, was in the city, a man practising sorcery, and amazing the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was some great person; to whom they gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the Power of God, which is called Great. And to him they gave heed, because they had for a long time been amazed by his sorceries.

It is no great thing, then, if his ministers also transform themselves as ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works, in teaching showing uncorruptness, gravity, sound speech that cannot be condemned; that he that is opposed to us may be put to shame, having no evil thing to say of us.

Then Judas, who betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented, and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, I sinned in betraying innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? See thou to it. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and withdrew; and went away and hanged himself. read more.
And the chief priests took the pieces of silver, and said, It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, since they are the price of blood. And they consulted together, and bought with them the potters field, for a burialplace for strangers.

And having sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a season.

We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who will themselves tell you the same things by word of mouth.

And Paul chose Silas and went forth, having been commended by the brethren to the grace of the Lord.

And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But Aquila and Priscilla having heard him, took him to them, and set forth to him the way [of the Lord] more fully.

And what was said pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus a proselyte of Antioch, whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

According as each one hath received a gift, minister the same to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

and a servant of the Lord must not quarrel, but be gentle to all, apt in teaching, patient of wrong,

And I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open the book, nor to look thereon. And one of the elders saith to me, Weep not; behold, the Lion that is of the tribe of Judah, the shoot from David, conquered, he that openeth the book, and its seven seals.

As to Titus, he is my partner and fellowlaborer for you; as to our brethren, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ.

We then are ambassadors for Christ; as though God were exhorting you by us, in behalf of Christ we entreat you, Be reconciled to God.

He was the burning and shining lamp: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.

Take, brethren, the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, for an example of affliction, and of patience.

Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit made you overseers, to feed the church of the Lord, which he purchased with his own blood.

And he departed thence, and went to the house of a certain man, named Justus, a worshipper of God, whose house was very near the synagogue.

and because he was of the same trade, he abode with them, and worked; for they were tentmakers by trade.

And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon, a tanner.

Then, after they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

And they cast lots for them; and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

who also gave us ability to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter, but of the Spirit; for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.

I wrote something to the church; but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.

Let a man so account us, as servants of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

For a bishop must be without reproach, as Gods steward; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, not a striker, not greedy of base gain,

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus sake.

Of all my affairs Tychicus will inform you, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord;

and sent Timothy, our brother and a fellowlaborer with God in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to encourage you in your faith,

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Christ Jesus, for the faith of Gods elect, and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness,

even as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, all of you being sharers of the grace bestowed on me.

and spared not the old world, but saved Noah with seven others, a preacher of righteousness, when he brought in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;

And he calleth to him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over the unclean spirits;

even as they were delivered to us by those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and became ministers of the word,

As fellowworkers, then, with him, we also exhort you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain;