In the goodness of God it has been possible to publish a further book in the ‘Glory’ series; to Him we owe much praise and appreciation.  This latest book, the fourteenth in the series, traces the sovereign, yet gracious, dealings of our God in His call to service of people from diverse and varied backgrounds.  It also magnifies His unlimited ability to equip and enable the recipients of His call to undertake the variety of tasks and roles He had in mind for them.  The manner in which Abraham was delivered from idolatry, David taken from the sheepfold, Elisha called from working the land, and Saul of Tarsus rescued from his cruel persecutions clearly illustrates how God overrules and brings, at times unlikely individuals, into the sphere of service for Himself.  All these were marked by failure and limitation and are subservient to the One Who “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” Phil.2.7.  Of this One it was said prophetically, “My Servant shall deal prudently, He shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high” Isa.52.13.  What a day it will be when “there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and His servants shall serve Him” Rev.22.3.

Scripturally, service is a highly significant, multi-dimensional subject.  While reference is often made to ‘full-time service’, the reality is, regardless of age, gender, ability or location, each and every believer becomes a servant at the moment of salvation.  It is important therefore to emphasise that this book is not just about service in a ‘full-time capacity’; its purpose is to encourage exercise about diligence in service to the Lord, that each of us might be conscious of being in His mind and will, whatever the particular sphere of service might be.  It is a sobering thought that all of our service will be the subject of review and that “every one of us shall give account of himself to God” Rom.14.12.

This publication, like the earlier ones, would not be possible without the valued contributions of each of the authors.  To them we unreservedly express our gratitude and thanks, knowing that the record is on high and that the Lord of the harvest will fully recompense in His unfailing way and time.  The committee of ‘Assembly Testimony’¹ recognises the sacrificial endeavour, both personally and domestically, in providing Biblically-based material for the edification and fortification of others.  How precious to remember that the Lord Jesus Christ said, “Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in My name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward” Mk.9.41.

^1. ‘Assembly Testimony’ is a bi-monthly magazine which is available on request from: John Gordon, ‘Elhanan’, 25 The Rowans, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 4DQ, N. Ireland.  His email address is: [email protected]

Once again we affirm that the authors have written their chapters independently of each other.  This accommodates individuality of style and expression and with this in mind it is important that readers consider the content in light of the teaching of the infallible Scriptures of Truth.

It is also again entirely appropriate that we record our appreciation to all who have contributed, largely behind the scenes, to this publication, especially those who have undertaken the arduous task of proofreading with painstaking thoroughness and commitment.  Thanks also go to all who have played a vital role in the production and distribution of these books to a widely cast international readership.

A key objective in making this book available is to promote a deeper understanding of what is involved in spiritual service and to highlight what a noble privilege it is to serve the Lord, but also that it is a great responsibility.  May we all have increasing grace and enablement to serve Him “acceptably with reverence and godly fear” Heb.12.28, ever remembering that “the night cometh, when no man can work” Jn.9.4.  Well might we ask, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” Acts 9.6.

 

Jack Palmer,

N. Ireland,

September 2022