Paul’s Three-Fold Approach to Ministry: Our Model to Follow

Paul’s Three-Fold Approach to Ministry: Our Model to Follow

Scripture Reading: Colossians 1:27-29

To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.

 

Thoughts

Him We Proclaim

Proclamation is something we all do, whether we realize it or not. To proclaim simply means to make something known openly and confidently—to speak about it because we believe it matters. We proclaim all kinds of things in life: a hobby we enjoy, a course we love, a disc we trust. When I tell someone about a great round or a beautiful fairway, I’m proclaiming disc golf—sharing something good that has brought me joy. But when Scripture speaks of proclamation, especially in Colossians 1:28, the message is infinitely greater. Paul says, “Him we proclaim,” because Christ is not just enjoyable—He is essential. Proclaiming disc golf invites someone into a game; proclaiming Christ invites them into life.

When you’ve come to know Christ and experienced the change He brings—not just better circumstances, but a new direction and a new desire to walk with Him—it becomes natural to speak of Him with the same enthusiasm you share with others, the things you love on the course. Having a real relationship leads to real proclamation.

Warning Every Man

But proclamation alone isn’t enough. Paul says that proclaiming Christ includes “warning every man,” because the message carries eternal stakes. When I proclaim disc golf, the worst someone can miss is a good walk and a great game. But when we proclaim Christ, we speak of a Savior who rescues us from sin and calls us into life with God. The gospel isn’t a hobby to sample; it’s a truth to respond to. That’s why proclamation must include loving clarity about who Jesus is and why He matters—because eternity hangs in the balance.

Teaching Every Man With All Wisdom

And proclamation must lead to teaching. Paul says we proclaim Christ by “teaching every man with all wisdom,” because people need more than excitement—they need understanding. When I introduce someone to disc golf, I eventually must explain how a disc flies, what stability means, or why a fairway driver won’t behave like a putter. In the same way, proclaiming Christ calls us to patiently teach who He is, what He has done, and why His grace matters. Proclamation opens the door, but teaching helps people walk through it with clarity and conviction.

A Disc-Golf-Themed Closing Illustration

On the course, every throw has a purpose. Some shots simply advance you up the fairway, while others demand precision because the basket is guarded and the margin for error is small. In ministry, Paul understood that proclaiming Christ isn’t a casual toss—it’s the approach shot that matters most. When we speak of Jesus, we’re not just sharing something enjoyable; we’re aiming at the heart with truth that leads to maturity. Disc golf gives us moments worth celebrating, but proclaiming Christ gives us a mission worth giving our lives to. And like a well-thrown disc that finds its line, faithful proclamation, warning, and teaching all work together to guide others toward the only true target—life in Him.

 

Reflection #1

Where is Christ inviting you to proclaim Him more openly—not out of pressure, but out of joy in who He is?

 

Reflection #2

Who has God placed in your path that needs not only your enthusiasm for Christ, but also your patient teaching and loving clarity about the gospel?

 

Meditate on these things as you throw to the glory of God.

 

Prayer

Father, thank you for sending your Son to die on the cross for our sins. Help us each day to live out that salvation and, as we go throughout our day, proclaim you and, as opportunity arises, teach and admonish so that we, like Paul, can see them come to maturity in Christ.

In Your name we pray,

Amen

 

Contributed by Steve Franklin PDGA# 194303