1 Corinthians 4:9 (KJV)
For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.
Some observations:
Paul included himself in the number of the apostles.
The term is used a few times to refer to people other than the twelve, but it is rare and specific. When Paul included himself here, he must certainly have meant the twelve. He, not Matthias, is the legitimate replacement for Judas Iscariot. It is he who, along with the other apostles, became the foundation of the local church. In many respects, he is the most significant of those stones—Jesus Christ, of course, being the chief cornerstone.
Such a position, though useful in the plan of God, was not an impressive one in the eyes of the world.
He said he believed himself and the other apostles to be appointed unto death, spectacles to the world.
While there is no position in God’s plan equal to that of the apostles, there is one that is comparable—the preacher: pastor, missionary, or evangelist. These are ministries ordained of God and of incredible importance to His plan for this church age. But it’s not a calling to celebrity status—it’s an appointment to death.
This world hates Christianity. And if all who live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution, it ought to be acknowledged—almost expected—that this is the lot of the preacher.
The position is witnessed in more arenas than just the physical.
He is a spectacle unto the world and to men, but also to angels.
Those God calls become “object lessons,” if you will, to the world’s system—academics, philosophy, science, and especially governments. They are also examples to individuals, to people struggling through the storms of life—just as the apostle, the preacher, and the fully surrendered believer are. And they are a witness to angels, those heavenly beings sent forth to minister to us. Though unseen by us, and though they dwell in the presence of God, they can only learn of grace by observing it at work in us.
The Apostle Paul saw himself as “appointed to death,” but was fine with that—because he knew his reward awaited on the other side of death.
#FaithfulToTheFinish #BuiltOnTheRock #HeavenlyRewardAhead #GraceInAction #GodsChosenVessels
Preachers on Display: Appointed to Death, Anchored in Glory
🔍 Are you searching for biblical answers in a world full of noise? The Apostle Paul wasn’t chasing applause—he was appointed to death so that Christ might be made known. The same is true for every God-called pastor, preacher, and believer today.
📖 Read 1 Corinthians 4:9—then do this: Reach out to your pastor or spiritual mentor today and ask how you can serve more faithfully in your local church. Ministry is not about status—it’s about sacrifice.
💬 What does it mean to be a "spectacle to the world" in your own life? Drop your answer in the comments below.
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