1 Corinthians 1:14-17 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; 15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. 16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. 17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
Paul worked as an evangelist and a missionary. It was his work in Christ to preach the word and establish churches. The work of baptism is the job of the bishop (pastor) as it is the ordinance of the local New Testament church. Therefore Paul was not allowed to baptize everyone because he was not the leader of that particular church.
2 Timothy 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
How does an evangelist make proof of his ministry? Paul dealt with this in an earlier passage:
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
An evangelist is not allowed to water down God's message. He is to prepare himself to preach the whole council of God.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
If you feel that you have been called to be an evangelist then study. Write your own commentary. Memorize scripture. Post a blog. Preach to whoever will listen. Lead people to the Christ you can read about in the Bible.
2 Corinthians 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
If you find that you can't practice what God tells you to do, leave. Come out from among them, find a church that preaches and wins souls! Follow the word of God.
Heavenly Father, help us to make our calling more sure. We want to be successful in your endeavors. In Jesus name, amen.
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