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The God of the Few
…the saints and the faithful brethren Colossians 1:2; (NKVJ)
The books of both Ephesians and Colossians begin with this phrase. Out of any congregation of saints, there is a group called “faithful.” God is looking for those committed to Him for the duration, not the moment. This verse speaks volumes concerning the strategy of God. God does not look for many; He looks for the few. He looks for quality, not quantity. Just like the Marines, God is looking for a few good
men and women. In the Old Testament, God called the faithful few, the remnant. This was a group within the nation.
They loved the Lord above others in the nation and had hearts to serve Him no matter what the cost. God was always looking for a few who would follow Him no matter what. He had twelve disciples out of the seventy who followed Him. Out of the twelve, Jesus had three who were closest to Him: Peter, James and John. Yet, out of the three, only one (John) stood with him at the crucifixion. Many times
we look for great numbers in prayer.
Our emotions are moved and we “feel a greateranointing” with increase numbers. God is still more
impressed with a few in faith than a multitude in unbelief. He will answer prayer if only two will agree in prayer (Matthew 18:19). God will answer prayer if only one will believe His Word. He is still looking for “a man among them” who will “stand in the gap and make up the hedge” and pray for the nation (Ezekiel 22:30). Just as in New Testament days, churches are filled with saints, but only a few are faithful brethren. Although the Great Commission tells us to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), we are too busy making converts instead. Converts are many, disciples are few.
A disciple is one who continues to follow the Lord despite the circumstances. He is faithful no matter who else follows the Lord. Jesus said, “If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples…” (John 8:32). Continuing in God’s Word sets you apart from the multitude of converts. It makes you more than a saint. It makes you a faithful brother in Jesus.
In the Masters’ Service,
Bishop James Swinson
