I came upon an article from Chad Bird called “Locking
Preachers in the Pulpit” that got me to thinking about those who accept the
call to ministry.
“The
Spirit did not plant preachers in the pulpit to be pontificating moralists or
political hacks or spiritualizing psychologists or wannabe Moseses or
motivational speakers.”
Preachers are, like John the Baptist, “a
voice.” A voice to proclaim Christ and him crucified and risen for us. Yes,
they diagnose evil. Expose wrongs. Call to repentance. Instruct, admonish, and
warn. They must do that, by divine imperative. But most vitally, they preach
the Gospel.
I would like to add a couple
thoughts to this line of thinking. Those who call a preacher to come into their
faith gathering to be the spiritual leader for their congregation should not only
demand the preacher be that voice of proclamation, to instruct and to teach the
wonders of a loving and gracious Saviour, they should also be ready and willing
to be locked into that same pulpit themselves. Allow me to explain. The call to
minister is not only one of teaching but also enabling. What good is it to teach
others the skills they need and then let those talents deteriorate through neglect?
We can teach a person to cook and then find out they eat out every day because
it is easier. Too often we leave the responsibility of communicating the good
news to others because we “lack the knowledge to do it as good as someone else”.
Preachers; speak the truth
and teach those around you not only how to become more confident in the power
of Holy Spirit but also empower and challenge them to become all God has gifted
them to be. Liberate the congregation to speak the salvation message, the Good
News. Unlock the door and encourage them to share with the enthusiasm they had when
they first understood the fullness of God’s love and grace for us all. Preach
with enthusiasm the perfect message of the Gospels, live life fully in the joy
of the Lord and dance like no one is watching and then help others join in.
This Sunday, we celebrate
our faith with Rev Glenn Reeder. We invite you to join us if you can at
10:30 MST on Sunday or watch live online on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MainAvenueFellowship/ )
or view it afterwards on our website (www.mainavefellowship.blogspot.ca). I have also included
the link to the article below should you wish to read it through .
Blessings
Pastor Todd
Pastor Todd
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