Quote:
Originally Posted by Cassidy
Special? I will have to say Yes to that as pertains to the biblical definition of a special ministry. However, I do not say special in the sense that God would not raise up another or others for that special ministry. It is obviously special to many for various reasons:
1) Those who give themselves to that ministry think it is special
2) Those that oppose it so vigorously think it is special enough to discredit
3) Watchman Nee referred to it as a special ministry.
"There are many ministries connected with the service of God, but He has chosen a number of men for a special ministry—the ministry of the Word for the building up of the Body of Christ. Since that ministry is different from others, we refer to it as “the ministry.” This ministry is entrusted to a group of people of whom the apostles are chief. It is neither a one-man ministry, nor an “all-men” ministry, but a ministry based upon the gifts of the Holy Spirit and an experimental knowledge of the Lord."
The Normal Christian Church Life - Watchman Nee
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Every ministry is a "speaking" ministry that involves the word of God. You cannot have the gift of evangelism without speaking the word of God. This gift builds up the body as well. Likewise with shepherding, teaching, and prophesy. This idea that the ministry of the word is "special" and different from other ministries because it builds up the body is ridiculous.