Dr Gayle Claxton at Kingdom Life Frankfurt
by Benjamin Fech
On Sunday February 23rd Rev. Gayle preached at Kingdom Life Frankfurt and we experienced a special service where many hearts were touched. She shared a challenging but relevant sermon on the topic “Ministry Hurt – Overcoming Hurts in Ministry” and I would like to share some thoughts with you in the following text because this sermon really spoke to me:
“Ministry Hurt” – hurts that occur within the church or in ministry to God – is a reality that many Christians face. John 15:1-5 reminds us that we need to abide in Jesus and be led by the Holy Spirit, especially in difficult times.
Why is this topic so important?
Studies show that 37% of people leave the church because they have been hurt. Hurt that is not dealt with will be repetitive – an open wound will eventually become infected. The church or community is the place where we may experience the deepest wounds, but it is also the place where we can find healing.
Expectations and taking offense
“Many of us have false expectations of leadership and of the church itself. However, church is not an organization that you join, but a family in which you find a home.” (quote from Nicky Gumbel)
A big problem is often a lack of honesty: we are quick to blame others, but just as quick to make excuses for ourselves.
If we take offense at every little things, it is a sign of immaturity. However, God uses such processes to shape us, to strengthen our identity in Jesus and to mature spiritually.
The key: forgiveness
Forgiveness is essential – this does not mean that we have to forget what has happened. Our memory must not overshadow forgiveness. God does not want to destroy us through hurts, but rather lead us closer to Jesus.
Three questions for self-examination in the Holy Spirit when dealing with hurt in our lives – Ask yourself in this situation:
1. Are your hands clean? – Did you have no part in the injury?
2. Is your heart pure? – Do you have resentment or bitterness?
3. Is Jesus enough for you to lead you through?
In the end, it’s about abiding in Jesus, trusting him with our hurts and accepting him as our true identity.
If you are interested in listening to the whole sermon, you can find it here as a podcast:
After the sermon, there was a call to prayer, which many responded to. You could feel the Holy Spirit touching and healing people.
We are grateful for everything God did that day and are excited to see what future effects it will have!
