THURSDAY 30TH NOV.,2017
TOPIC: LOVE YOUR PASTOR
TEXT: Ephesians 4:11 “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers…”
Pastors have a tough job. They get more kicks than kisses. If a pastor is young he lacks experience; if he’s grey-haired he’s too old. If he has five kids he has too many; if he has none he’s setting a bad example. If his wife sings in the choir she’s being forward; if not, she’s not dedicated enough. If he preaches from notes he’s dry; if he’s extemporaneous he’s too shallow. If he spends too much time in his study he’s neglecting his people; if he makes home visits he’s not a good time manager. If he’s attentive to the poor he’s after public approval; if he attends to the wealthy he’s ingratiating.
If he suggests improvements he’s a dictator; if he doesn’t he has no vision. If he uses too many illustrations he neglects the Bible; if he doesn’t use enough stories, he’s unclear. If he speaks against wrong he’s legalistic; if he doesn’t he’s a compromiser. If he preaches for an hour he’s windy; less than that, he has nothing to say. If he preaches the truth he’s offensive; if he doesn’t he’s wishy-washy. If he fails to please everybody he’s hurting the church; if he tries to please everybody he has no convictions. If he preaches tithing he’s a money-grabber; if not, he’s failing to develop his people. If he receives a large salary he’s mercenary; if he doesn’t it proves he’s not worth much. If he preaches on a regular basis, people get tired of hearing the same person; if he invites guest preachers he’s shirking his responsibility.
Wow! And you thought your pastor had an easy life! How’d you like to change places? Bottom line: love your pastor.
MEDITATION: 1 Tim. 2:1-2
BIBLE STUDY
1 Chron. 28, 2 Pet. 2, Micah 5, Luke 14