Christians have a message to spread. This much is obvious from reading the New Testament. But should we see ourselves as people who are desperate, doing anything to gain an audience and approval for our message? Here’s some helpful insight into this question. It’s written to pastors, but it applies to anyone who wants to spread Jesus’ message:
If you and I see ourselves merely as peddlers or purveyors of a spiritual “message,” we rapidly become salesmen for the gospel instead of true ministers of the gospel. That is, we’re always scrambling to persuade reluctant customers to buy our product, rather than serving as emissaries sent by God to issue his perennial joyous invitation toward genuine freedom and release: “Repent and believe the good news.” (Mark 1:15)
Paul had a clear understanding of his identity that influenced his life as a pastor: “This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” (1 Cor 4:1)
A steward is never a salesman, but an agent.
He serves in place of another.
Pastors [and indeed, all servant of Jesus] are true agents of Jesus, speaking his words and doing his works…dispensing Christ’s own hope and life in a despairing and dying world.
— Harold Senkbeil, The Care of Souls, p.23