ARTICLE – Proclaiming God’s Word: A Sacred Call

Proclaiming God’s Word is a sacred task that lies at the heart of Christian ministry and discipleship. It is a task that requires deep humility, sincere love for others, and an unwavering faith in God’s power to transform lives through His Word.

At its core, proclaiming God’s Word means sharing the truth of Scripture and the message of God’s love and salvation with others. However, true proclamation goes far beyond mere verbal communication. It is meant to be a lived reality, where the messenger embodies the very truths they proclaim.

Proclaiming God’s Word effectively requires a posture of humility and complete dependence on the Holy Spirit. The more we are destitute in the face of this spiritual mission…the more the Holy SPirit will act with power. These words echo the biblical principle that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

To carry out this mission, believers are called to:

  1. Be deeply rooted in Scripture: Those who proclaim God’s word should be nourished by “the solid food, the pure milk of the Word.” Regular study and meditation on God’s Word is essential for those who would proclaim it. (Hebrews 5:12-14)
  2. Partake in Holy Communion : Regular participation in the Eucharist is a vital source of spiritual nourishment and strength for those engaged in proclaiming God’s Word. The Eucharist connects the proclaimer intimately with Christ, providing the spiritual sustenance needed to carry out their mission effectively. (John 6:53-56)
  3. Rely on the Holy Spirit: True proclamation is not about human eloquence or wisdom, but about allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through us. Evangelizers should ask for the Holy Spirit in all circumstances. (1 Corinthians 2:4-5; Luke 12:11-12)
  4. Live a life of love and service: Proclaiming God’s Word is inseparable from loving and serving others. Believers must love their brothers and sisters, be attentive to those who are suffering, and “become small” in order to serve others. (Philippians 2:3-4; Mark 10:45)
  5. Embrace suffering and rejection: Proclaiming God’s Word often involves facing opposition and rejection, just as Jesus did. Believers are called to “take up the cross” and follow Christ’s example of sacrificial love. (John 15:18-20)
  6. Intercede for others: A crucial aspect of proclaiming God’s Word is praying for others, especially for those who are far from God. The power of intercessory prayer brings about spiritual transformation. (2 Corinthians 1:11)
  7. Seek unity in the Church: Proclaiming God’s Word should lead to greater unity among believers. Believers are called to break down walls of division and foster genuine love and reconciliation within the Christian community. (1 Corinthians 1:10-17; John 17:20-23)
  8. Be willing to be challenged and corrected: Those who proclaim God’s Word must also be open to hearing it themselves, even when it challenges their own attitudes and behaviors. (Proverbs 15:31-32; Hebrews 12:5-6)
  9. Trust in God’s timing and methods: Proclaiming God’s Word requires patience and faith, recognizing that God works in His own time and often in unexpected ways. (Galatians 6:9; Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, 11)
  10. Live in repentance and dependence on God’s grace: The bible emphasizes the ongoing need for repentance and reliance on God’s forgiveness, as this maintains the proclaimer’s spiritual vitality and credibility. (Psalm 51:10-12 )
  11. Seek wisdom from the Church: Proclaiming God’s Word effectively requires being rooted in the teachings and traditions of the Church. Believers should find instruction within the Church, recognizing it as a source of divine wisdom and guidance. (Acts 2:42)
  12. Be prepared for spiritual warfare: Proclaiming God’s Word often involves facing spiritual opposition. Believers should be aware of this reality and firm in faith, relying on God’s power to overcome challenges. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

In conclusion, proclaiming God’s Word is a high calling that demands a life surrendered to God and dedicated to loving others. It is not merely a task to be performed, but a way of life to be embraced. As believers faithfully carry out this mission with humility and love, they become powerful instruments through which God can bring His truth, healing, and transformation to a world in desperate need of His Word.

Pierre-Alain Giffard, Director of Pastoral Work

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