“Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and take care of your mat.” (Ac 9:34)
In this simple verse, Peter shows us what healthy ministry should look like. This is how we should serve all people in all situations:
1. Jesus-Centered / “Jesus Christ”
Your job is to help people connect with Jesus, the Savior – not be the savior. Peter doesn’t promise Aeneas anything but that Jesus is active right now in his life and can heal him. Don’t let people depend on you for answers. Teach them to know Jesus, The Answer.
2. Spirit-Filled / “heals you”
There is nothing impossible for God. Don’t let people consume your time with excuses or their list of weaknesses. Healing doesn’t come by reasoning away problems. Healing comes from having faith that the Holy Spirit is able.
3. Personally-responsible / “take care of your mat.”
Peter makes Aeneas responsible for living out his healing. Jesus does not heal you and not give you the power to walk it out. Maturity comes from taking responsibility for your needs and for your relationship with God. Call people to responsibility so they can have a testimony to share.
If you love and serve people this way, you will never be burned out. At home, church, work or outreach, make sure you serve in a “Jesus-Centered”, “Spirit-Filled” and “Personally-responsible” way. As you do that, believe for miracles!