Stirring Up the Gift of Kingdom Business

Apostle Allison Smith Conliff centers on the biblical teachings of 2nd Timothy, emphasizing the necessity of divine calling over human ambition in ministry. She warns against treating the church as a commercial business, urging congregants to focus on Kingdom business and spiritual legacy rather than earthly riches. Highlighting the relationship between Paul and Timothy, the message encourages believers to persevere through hardships and find resilience in worship during times of trial. Listeners are instructed to stir up their spiritual gifts and reject fear in favor of a sound mind and authentic faith. Ultimately, the message calls for a sincere commitment to Christ, stressing that true salvation and holiness are the only treasures that endure beyond death.Key Points:The Apostle distinguishes between earthly business and spiritual kingdom business by contrasting their source of authority, their ultimate value, and their underlying motivations.She notes that while people often turn God’s house into a "physical natural business", similar to the money changers Jesus overthrew, kingdom business is run differently because God is the head of His kingdom. Unlike ordinary business, where individuals might "send themselves" into positions like the pastorate or apostleship, spiritual effectiveness in kingdom business only comes when one is called by the will of God. In this spiritual economy, individuals are not independent operators but are called to be "partners" with God.A primary distinction made in the sources is the transience of earthly success versus the eternal nature of spiritual success.Earthly Success: Natural achievements such as houses, land, degrees, and certificates are described as being "just for this life". The Apostle emphasizes that natural wealth, such as money in a bank or a check placed in a coffin, has no value in heaven because the "streets are gold".Kingdom Business: Success in the kingdom is measured by one's relationship with Christ and what was done with "His son". The Apostle warns that one can accomplish everything on earth, but without acknowledging Jesus as Lord, they will have "nothing to collect" in the afterlife.Apostle Allison highlights a difference in what is considered "profitable":Natural Motivation: In the natural world, particularly in leadership or business, the focus is often on the bottom line. The Apostle mentions that when men are called from their businesses, they often want to know, "What is the profit?" or "What is in it for us?".Kingdom Motivation: Kingdom business requires a "holy calling" that is not based on human works or personal gain but on God’s purpose and grace. Instead of seeking immediate natural profit, those in kingdom business are encouraged to "fan the flames" of spiritual gifts, such as preaching or ministering, to refresh others and serve God. The reward for this "business" is not found in natural currency but in the "promise of life which is in Christ Jesus" and the blessings in the life to come.The Apostle reminds the audience that while earthly business might be conducted without divine oversight, every action in kingdom business must be "approved by heaven". There is a spiritual accountability where individuals will eventually "give an account" for how they used what God gave them, rather than how much natural wealth they accumulated.Rec. Date: 19th November, 2023