FROM GATEMAN TO GREAT MAN

TITLE: FROM GATEMAN TO GREAT MAN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Esther 2:21-23 – "In those days, while Mordecai sat within the king's gate, two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. So the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai's name. And when an inquiry was made into the matter, it was confirmed, and both were hanged on a gallows. And it was written in the Book of the Chronicles in the presence of the king."

Supporting Texts:
Acts 3:1-10
1 Samuel 16:7
Proverbs 18:16
Matthew 5:14-16

INTRODUCTION:
The journey from being a gateman to becoming a great man is a testament to God's ability to elevate and transform lives. Through the stories of Mordecai and the man at the Beautiful Gate, we see how God can use humble beginnings and seemingly insignificant roles to achieve His divine purpose. This sermon will explore these stories and the principles that guide us from obscurity to greatness.

1. MORDECAI: FROM THE GATE TO GREATNESS
Mordecai’s story exemplifies how faithfulness in seemingly insignificant positions can lead to divine elevation.

a) Faithfulness in Service: Mordecai served as a gatekeeper, a role often overlooked, yet he remained diligent in his duties (Esther 2:21).

b) Discernment and Wisdom: Mordecai was alert to the dangers facing the king and acted swiftly to protect him (Esther 2:22).

c) The Importance of Timing: His timely revelation to Queen Esther led to the saving of the Jewish people (Esther 4:14).

d) Recognition by Authority: Mordecai's loyalty did not go unnoticed; he was eventually honoured by King Ahasuerus (Esther 6:10).

Biblical Example:
Just as Joseph went from being a prisoner to the second-in-command in Egypt through divine providence (Genesis 41:46), Mordecai's faithfulness led him to greatness.

2. THE MAN AT THE BEAUTIFUL GATE
The story of the man at the Beautiful Gate highlights how God can transform a life from a position of begging to one of abundance.

a) A Life of Limitation: The man was lame from birth and dependent on others for support (Acts 3:2).

b) An Encounter with Destiny: His life changed when he encountered Peter and John, who were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 3:4-7).

c) Faith and Expectation: The man expected to receive money, but instead, he received healing and wholeness (Acts 3:5-6).

d) Transformation and Testimony: His healing led to a powerful testimony, as he went into the temple walking, leaping, and praising God (Acts 3:8).

Biblical Example:
Similar to the blind man who was healed by Jesus and went on to declare the glory of God (John 9:25), this man’s life was dramatically transformed.

3. PRINCIPLES OF TRANSFORMATION
The journey from gateman to great man involves key principles that we must embrace.

a) Diligence and Hard Work: We must be diligent in whatever we do, knowing that our labour is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).

b) Faithfulness in Little Things: God entrusts greater responsibilities to those who are faithful in small matters (Luke 16:10).

c) Openness to Divine Opportunities: We must remain open to the divine encounters that can change our lives (Acts 3:4).

d) Being a Blessing to Others: Our transformation can be a blessing to those around us, leading them to faith (Matthew 5:16).

Biblical Example:
David was faithful in tending his father's sheep before being anointed as king (1 Samuel 16:11-13).

4. THE ROLE OF FAITH IN OUR JOURNEY
Faith is a crucial element in the transition from being a gateman to a great man.

a) Faith in God’s Plan: Trusting that God has a purpose for our lives, even in difficult times (Jeremiah 29:11).

b) Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Embracing change and being willing to take risks for God (Hebrews 11:1).

c) Community and Support: The importance of surrounding ourselves with those who encourage and uplift us (Hebrews 10:24-25).

d) Boldness in Witnessing: Sharing our testimonies can inspire others and bring glory to God (Revelation 12:11).

Biblical Example:
Peter stepping out of the boat demonstrates faith that leads to miraculous results (Matthew 14:29).

5. GOD’S PROMISE OF ELEVATION
God promises to elevate those who remain steadfast in their faith and service.

a) Promotion Comes from the Lord: We must remember that our elevation ultimately comes from God (Psalm 75:6-7).

b) God Sees Our Hearts: He does not judge by outward appearances, but looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

c) Our Past Does Not Define Us: God can change our story regardless of our background (Isaiah 43:18-19).

d) Faithfulness Leads to Reward: Those who are faithful will receive their reward in due season (Galatians 6:9).

Biblical Example:
Daniel’s faithfulness in Babylon led to his promotion in the kingdom (Daniel 6:3).

CONCLUSION:
The stories of Mordecai and the man at the Beautiful Gate remind us that our current situation does not define our future. With faithfulness, diligence, and trust in God, we can transition from a position of servitude to one of greatness. Let us embrace our roles, remain steadfast in our faith, and anticipate the incredible things God will do in our lives.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to be faithful in the small things.

2. Father, give me discernment to see opportunities for service and transformation.

3. Lord, strengthen my faith to step out of my comfort zone.

4. Father, open my eyes to divine encounters that can change my life.

5. Lord, help me to be a blessing to others as I receive Your blessings.

6. Father, I pray for a spirit of diligence in my work and responsibilities.

7. Lord, may I always seek to glorify You through my testimony.

8. Father, let my past not define my future; I trust in Your promises.

9. Lord, I declare elevation over my life according to Your will.

10. Father, help me to remain steadfast and patient as I await Your rewards.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that you are moving from a place of limitation to a place of greatness.

2. God is opening doors for divine encounters that will change your life.

3. You will experience elevation as you remain faithful in your service.

4. I decree that your testimony will inspire and uplift those around you.

5. The Lord is pouring out His favour upon you for your diligence and hard work.

6. You are stepping into a season of divine opportunities and blessings.

7. I declare that your past will not hinder your future in Christ.

8. God is promoting you beyond your expectations and understanding.

9. Your faithfulness will lead to rewards that will overflow in your life.

10. You will be a beacon of hope and inspiration to others, reflecting God’s glory!