The Ministry Tableનમૂનો

A Different Kind of Name Dropping

Are you a name dropper? The Cambridge Dictionary defines this as “the habit of mentioning famous people you know in order to seem more important!

Well, this isn't the kind of name-dropping we are talking about in today’s podcast - but we are talking about the value of name-dropping for the purpose of networking! Networking is a skill set every pastor should refine and develop for kingdom growth.

The Apostle Paul was a name dropper—I love Romans 16—after wrapping up the letter at the end of chapter 15, he goes on for 16 verses dropping names—29 names in all!.

Why was it important for Paul to drop names in this letter? Well, here are a few principles we can apply in our ministry as we learn from the great name dropper—the Apostle Paul:

1. Endorsement: In Romans 16:1, Paul endorses Phoebe and commends her service to the Lord. Why? So that they would receive her in a manner worthy of the saints and to help her in any way possible.

• When we endorse a brother or sister in the Lord, we amplify their value to those whom we are speaking.

1. Testimony: Next, he sent his greetings to Priscilla and Aquilla—a wife/husband team - many scholars believe Priscilla served as the pastor. In either case, they had served alongside Paul and “risked their lives” for the cause of the gospel.

• When we testify, we are sharing how their lives have impacted us in a personal way.

1. Honor: Among the many names in chapter 16, he mentions Adronicus and Junia and honors them with the title of Apostle.

• In Philippians 2, speaking of Epaphroditus, Paul encouraged the church in Phillipi to give him the honor that he deserves.”
• When we are networking—it is okay to honor someone else when they deserve it.

1. Personal: In verses 1, 2, Paul highlights Tryphaena and Tryphosa, whom some scholars believe were twins based on the custom of giving such persons with the same root name.

• When name-dropping, it is always good to share personal insights as well. If they love a sport or are passionate about a cause, it is helpful to share those things.

Remember, the Cambridge dictionary was all about name-dropping to make yourself look good. Kingdom name-dropping is about glorifying God and honoring others. Either way, it is a tool that will transform your ability to build the kingdom through networking.

Pastor Tom Herbert
National Field Director, Harvest Network and Lead Pastor of Freedom Community Church
Shrewsbury, PA
https://harvestnetwork.live/