Everyone Is a MinisterSample

Roughly translated to English, karate means the way of the empty hand. Karateka blocks with their hands. They attack with their palms, knuckles, and fingers. While they also use other parts of their bodies, it is clear that “the way of the empty hand’ is a good description of this traditional Japanese martial art.

So does that mean that these martial artists spend most of their time working on their hands? Do they exclusively work on their upper body strength? Absolutely not!

While it is true that the hand would make contact with the opponent, the karate practitioner needs to use his entire body. The feet, legs, hips, eyes, and breathing must work together to deliver a powerful strike. A karateka utilizes his whole body to practice his art - not just his hands.

The same principle applies to sports. Cyclists, sprinters, archers, and even race car drivers train their whole bodies. Athletes understand that to win, their entire bodies must be in shape and able to work together.

The same principle is also at play in Christ’s body, the church. Paul told the church in Corinth to work together to do what God wanted them to do. They must honor and serve one another. All the body parts must be healthy, taken care of, and play their role.

Unfortunately, churches these days are top-heavy. We look like boxers from the turn of last century: big arms, barrel chests, but tiny legs.

We elevate those with speaking and teaching gifts. We honor those who possess musical and leadership skills. Everyone else is only expected to come on Sunday, clap, laugh at our jokes, and slide their debit cards on their way out. Is it surprising that we are still not done with the Great Commission two thousand years later?

Every part of the body must work with one another. That’s God’s plan for the church. That is why the church must disciple, honor, and involve everyone. The church must encourage everybody to participate in God’s redemptive plan for this world.

But you must also do your part. You must be willing to serve God and one another in the church. You may not feel like it, but the church needs you. God wants you. So ask your pastors and leaders how you can do your part. There is a part for you because every member is a minister.