The Relevance of Dr. King to Modern Day Ministry

[Richard A. Young]

As we enter 2010, the year of manifestation, and as we approach the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, this question occurred to me: What is the relevance of the Drum Major for Justice in our modern day ministry? Whether we have store-front, neighborhood, mega churches, or any other type of ministry, does Dr. King hold any relevance for us today? If so, what is it, in your opinion? Dr. King also was not just a local leader but a world changer. Is he relevant to contemporary world changing ministry, or is he merely a historical icon?

[Richard A. Young]

Monday, January 18, 2010 marks the National Holiday celebrating the birthday, life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The remarkable thing about Dr. King is his humility and quiet power. Nothing in his background said that he would be a world changer. Mark 4: 41 the Disciples asked amongst themselves concerning Jesus after He calmed the storm,” what manner of man is this?” Dr. Lerone Bennett, Jr., asks the same question in his biography of Dr. King. Who is this man that history would choose him to shine the light on the horrors of racism in the wealthiest, most powerful, and seemly civilized nation in the world? Who is this man that he could captivate men and women around the world to love peace and one another? How is it that one man could alter the course of modern history? In 1 Corinthians 15: 21, 22, the Apostle Paul reasons that by one man’s willful disobedience, sin and death entered, and so by one man’s humble submission and perfect obedience, are all men made free. Like Jesus, Martin was faithful and focused. Though people, principalities, and powers came against him, he trusted in God and trudged through the trials and tribulations. Dr. King’s relevance for us today is housed in his leadership. He lead us from a local civil rights movement to a global human rights movement. Not only did Dr. King expose the ill behaviors of the racist, he also gave us hope in showing us the best within ourselves through the power of undying, unwavering, unqualified, unconditional love. Dr. King’s love, faith, trust, and obedience was so powerful that his life was not taken by an assassin’s bullet, but he gave his life for the vision, his calling, and the movement! “…I may not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight, that, we as a people will get to the Promised Land! So, I’m happy tonight. I’m not worried about anything, I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord!” –Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memphis, Tennessee, April 3, 1968.

[Richard A. Young]

Oh so true Man of God. It is encouraging to hear that there are other men that agree that we must teach, especially our young men, the glory of our history and encourage them to stay on track for a bright future by honoring and respecting our past and rich heritage. Thank you so much for your comment. It is encouraging. Consider joining New Christian Life Ministries, our group here on BPN. Eternal blessings to you from the new dimension, in Jesus' name.
Pastor Young

[Vikki Taylor]

Vikki Taylor said… Dr. King took us to a place we had no idea we were going. He led a movement that took us to a legislative foundation most of us didn't know was being laid. If the masses had not gone with him, he would have gone alone. He was God's man on a life mission, and he knew who had his back. If we fail to use his life as an example of the power of purpose and faith, we have missed the essence of his living.

Not only did he leave an important legacy for all who followed him, he demonstrated the power of living with God. I hope someday, that my people will see the value in a life such as his; it was not just for show or glory. It was for our survival and to show us how the Christ intended that we should follow his example in our own living. To God Be The Glory. Such a life will forever be relevant to every age and predicament. He was a man of Love, Humility, Faith and Spirit, focused on the path of God before him.