Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 1105A recorded on July 27, 1986 teaching from 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 – Called of God.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens emphasizes that Christian ministry is not a profession but a divine calling, teaching us that individuals should only enter service if they are “called of God”. He stresses that ministers are merely “jars of clay,” humble vessels through whom God makes His appeal, highlighting that their perceived weaknesses or worldly shortcomings do not hinder God’s work. Stevens underscores the concept of “the ministry of reconciliation,” where believers, as Christ’s ambassadors, are tasked with restoring broken relationships between people and God. Despite facing constant challenges—being “hard pressed,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “struck down”—ministers are encouraged by the assurance that they are “not crushed,” “not in despair,” “not abandoned,” and “not destroyed” because God is always with them, continuously renewing them inwardly.