Jack Hibbs : There’s Only One True Ministry – Part 2 (Hebrews 13:17-19)

Living the Only True Ministry: Becoming God’s Witness in a Fading World

Let’s open our hearts today to the message found in Hebrews 13:17–19. These words remind us that the Christian life isn’t about passivity—it’s about serving, loving, and living under God’s divine order. The writer says, “Obey those who rule over you and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls as those who must give an account.”

That’s not about control—it’s about care. Spiritual leaders are accountable before God for the souls they shepherd, and as believers, we’re called to live in a way that brings them joy, not grief. Why? Because when we walk together in unity, the Church becomes strong, radiant, and full of life.

Paul—or the writer of Hebrews—then says something profoundly human: “Pray for us.” That simple request holds so much humility. The greatest apostles, pastors, and teachers all knew that without prayer, the ministry would wither. True ministry isn’t built on charisma, strategy, or personality—it’s built on humble dependence upon God and the prayers of His people.

If you call yourself a follower of Christ, you already have a ministry. You may not stand behind a pulpit, but your life preaches. Every word of kindness, every act of forgiveness, every moment you choose faith over fear—these are sermons that echo louder than any stage could hold.

God didn’t save you to set you on a shelf. He filled you with His Spirit so that you could be light in dark places. It’s not about waiting for a miracle somewhere else—the miracle is you. It’s God using your life to touch hearts and change lives in ways you could never do alone.

In these final days, when confusion spreads and false teachings grow, we must anchor ourselves in the Word. Paul called these times “dispensations”—periods in which God reveals His purposes on earth. We live now in the dispensation of grace, the Church Age, where Christ’s message of salvation is being proclaimed to the nations. But this will not last forever. The day is coming when the work will cease, and the light will fade. That’s why Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.”

This is our call—to serve while there’s still time. To put on the armor of light. To live honorably. To love courageously. And to pray for one another.

As Pastor Jack shared, even those in ministry need prayer. When believers pray together, miracles happen. Hearts are strengthened. Burdens are lifted. It’s what Spurgeon called “the lungs of the Church.” So, don’t hesitate to ask for prayer. Don’t walk alone. We’re called to carry one another’s burdens, to stand shoulder to shoulder in faith, and to remind each other that God still moves.

The apostle Paul knew this deeply. He said, “We are fools for Christ’s sake… we hunger, we thirst, we labor, being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure.” His life was proof that true ministry comes not from pride but from humility—from broken vessels who let God’s light shine through their cracks.

And so the call remains: be a witness. Live what you believe. Don’t just talk about Christianity—walk it out. Let your faith be seen not in comfort, but in courage. For Jesus never promised ease, but He did promise Himself.

When He said, “Follow Me,” He didn’t beg or persuade. He simply walked forward—and hearts were compelled to follow. That same voice calls you today. Not to comfort, not to status, but to a life that matters for eternity.

The world doesn’t need more preachers with microphones—it needs believers with conviction. People who love truth, walk in grace, and live as living proof that there is, indeed, only one true ministry—the ministry of Jesus Christ, alive in His people.