The life of the preacher is a life of study, and it has been so from the very beginning. The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to study so that he could present himself to God as an approved worker, "a worker who has no need to be ashamed" [2 Timothy 2:15].
A word of honesty is necessary at this point. Any honest assessment of the contemporary church would indicate that vast numbers of ministers serving Christ's church are derelict in this duty. They are intellectually lazy, biblically illiterate, slothful in their study habits, and they often steal the learning of others in order to hide their own disobedience. This is a scandal that robs the congregation of the learned and faithful ministry the people of God so desperately need and deserve.
He concludes his thoughts by stating:
Ultimately, the preacher's calling is a call to serve the people of God. That's why a consideration of the call should include a careful analysis of the man's ability to preach, to teach, and to love the church for whom Christ died.
It is the duty of the minister of God to study God's Word diligently and to feed His sheep. May those pastors who might read this be encouraged to remain faithful in the most high calling. As has been said by many who have gone before us, preachers can steer the world to or away from Christ. Christ's sheep are hungry for God's Word. We desire to hear from Him every Lord's Day. It may be difficult to overcome the entertainment that fills so many worship services, but remaining faithful and being ready in season and out of season is your duty.
May God Bless the faithful Pastor, who preaches the Word when people listen and when they do not.
No comments:
Post a Comment