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Bible Dictionaries
Minister
Bridgeway Bible Dictionary
or Christian ministry is a very broad subject and may be conveniently studied through looking at topics that deal with its various aspects. According to its most common biblical usage, ‘ministry’ means ‘service’. A person who ministers to others is one who serves others; a minister of God is a servant of God (Deuteronomy 10:8; Psalms 103:21; Joel 2:17; Matthew 8:15; Matthew 25:44; Matthew 27:55; 2 Corinthians 3:6; 2 Corinthians 6:4; 2 Corinthians 11:15; 2 Corinthians 11:23; for details see SERVANT).
Different forms of the biblical word translated ‘minister’ denote a variety of people and the work they do in the church (Romans 12:7; Ephesians 6:21; Colossians 4:17; Hebrews 6:10; see GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT). The same word, transliterated ‘deacon’, refers to a recognized class of church helpers (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:8; see DEACON). The pastoral leaders of the church, who are distinct from the deacons, are also ministers (Ephesians 4:11-12; Colossians 1:7; 1 Timothy 1:12; 2 Timothy 4:5; see APOSTLE; ELDER; TEACHER; PREACHING). The perfect minister, who is an example to all others, is Jesus Christ (Matthew 20:28; John 13:14-16; Romans 15:8).
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Fleming, Don. Entry for 'Minister'. Bridgeway Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/bbd/m/minister.html. 2004.
