In the context of Christian ministry, motives are the underlying reasons or intentions that drive individuals to serve in various capacities within the church and broader community. The Bible provides numerous insights into the importance of pure and godly motives in ministry, emphasizing that the heart's intentions are as significant as the actions themselves.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible underscores the significance of motives in several passages. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the Lord reminds Samuel, "For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." This principle is foundational for understanding that God values the intentions behind our actions, not just the actions themselves.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of motives in ministry. In Philippians 1:15-17, he acknowledges that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, while others do so out of goodwill. Paul writes, "The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing they can add affliction to my chains; but the latter do so out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel." Here, Paul distinguishes between those who minister with pure motives and those driven by selfish ambition.

Pure Motives

The Bible encourages believers to serve with pure motives, characterized by love, humility, and a desire to glorify God. In 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Paul emphasizes the supremacy of love as the driving force behind all ministry efforts: "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal." Love, as a motive, ensures that ministry efforts are genuine and aligned with God's purposes.

Humility is another essential motive in ministry. Jesus exemplified this in His own life and teachings. In Matthew 20:26-28, He instructs His disciples, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Serving with humility reflects Christ's own approach to ministry and aligns with God's will.

Selfish Motives

Conversely, the Bible warns against selfish motives in ministry. In Matthew 6:1, Jesus cautions, "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." This warning highlights the danger of seeking human approval rather than God's approval.

The desire for personal gain or recognition can corrupt ministry efforts. In 1 Timothy 6:5, Paul warns against those who view godliness as a means to financial gain, describing them as having "a depraved mind and deprived of the truth." Such motives are contrary to the selfless nature of true Christian service.

Discernment and Accountability

To maintain pure motives, believers are encouraged to engage in self-examination and seek accountability within the Christian community. Psalm 139:23-24 serves as a prayer for divine examination: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

Accountability among fellow believers can also help ensure that motives remain aligned with biblical principles. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another."

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide an exhaustive list of motives, it clearly delineates between those that honor God and those that do not. By prioritizing love, humility, and a desire to glorify God, believers can ensure that their ministry efforts are pleasing to the Lord and effective in advancing His kingdom.