… about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you,
Summary: Decoding Paul’s use of language is helpful when it comes to understanding the gift of the Gospel that God has given us.
Paul’s words in this passage sound a bit cold and technical. What does he mean by “the administration of God’s grace?”
As it turns out, the word Paul used was “oikonomia.” This term is a bit technical, but understood properly it conveys the exact thought Paul was trying to communicate.
“Oikonomia” means “administration (of a household or estate); … stewardship.” (Strong’s G3623)
It brings to mind the story of Joseph when he was sold into slavery by his brothers. He ended up working for a man named Potiphar, who was very wealthy. Potiphar noticed that there was something special about Joseph and that everything he did was blessed by God. The Bible tells us:
“So he [Potiphar] made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put under his charge. From the time that he had made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house on account of Joseph. So the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had in the house and in the field. So he left all that he had in Joseph’s charge, and he had no concerns regarding anything except the food he ate.” (Genesis 39:4b-6)
Being responsible for the administration of someone else’s property is a good illustration of what Paul is telling us. Paul has been given responsibility for the administration of the New Covenant. He is one of many “overseers” responsible for correctly conveying the Word of God to people.
Paul refers to the Gospel Message as “God’s grace” because that is what it is. The New Covenant in Jesus’ blood (Matthew 26:28) is given as an expression of God’s love for us, his creation. It is not something we have earned or could earn if we wanted to.
This explains why Paul gets a bit touchy when somebody tries to push the idea of circumcision on Gentile Christians. They are not messing with Paul personally but with Paul’s responsibility to God. When it comes to discharging his work before the Lord, Paul is fiercely protective of God’s message.
Application: We can be confident that Paul’s message to us on behalf of God is well cared for.
Food for Thought: In what ways did Paul administrate God’s estate on earth?
In what ways did Paul administrate God’s estate on earth?
Paul prepared himself for greater service by studying and praying for 3 years (Galatians 1:15-20).
Paul prayed continually (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
Paul made sure God”s message was heard by all people regardless of background (Galatians 3:28).
In addition to ministering, he worked, and worked with others (Acts 18:1-4).
Paul endured faithfully (2 Corinthians 11: 23-30).
Paul encoraged others (2 Timothy 1:5-7).
Chris,
Thank you! That is a well thought out list!
He faithfully completed what God called him to do as the Apostle to the Gentiles. The world was turned upside down with the gospel and we still feel its affects today. In fact, many of us could trace our own faith heritage to Paul’s ministry. 2 Timothy 4: 6 – 8.
Thank you, Rich!
So true!
05-05-2023, In what ways did Paul administrate God’s estate on earth?
Paul only knew one level of commitment, 110% or higher! Acts 28:31 States, “Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.”
He recorded 13 of the 27 books of the New Testament as revealed to him by God. Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon.
He was chosen by God to be His messenger the Gentiles, Paul made three long missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire, planting churches, preaching the gospel, and giving strength and giving encouragement to early believers.
Acts 25, As a citizen of Rome, Paul chose an appeal to Caesar and was taken out of the control of the unjust Sanhedrin, commanded to be sent to Rome where he continued his ministry in the existing capital of the Gentile world.
As only strong faith can do, what most would view as a problem was seen by Paul as an opportunity .
On His way to Rome, he was shipwrecked and spent 3 months ministering to the people living on the Island of Melita.
In Rome, Paul spent 2 years living and preaching, day and night, in a rented house, always guarded by a Roman soldier. The three Books, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon are believed to have been given to Paul who recorded God’s revelations while in Rome. Paul was right where he knew God wanted him. In the capital city of the gentile, governing power of the world, serving God as He brought people to Him.
In the end, Paul gladly allowed men to do as they pleased to his physical body, as he was called home, to spend eternity with our God in Heaven.
Thanks Ron!
Paul certainly was a valiant defender of God’s estate!