THE WEIGHT OF OUR WORDS

Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.  (1 Timothy 4:16 NKJV)

The preacher who departs from sound doctrine—in his preaching or his lifestyle—should fear for his soul.  That course leads to the abyss.  What is more dreadful is that due to his responsibility in leading the flock, he directs other precious souls to hell with him.  No matter the profession such a preacher has made in the past, the Scriptural sermons, or apparent fruit from his ministry, his failure to persevere indicates that he was never regenerate.  We need look no further than Judas Iscariot to find such a preacher.  Brothers, let us preach as though our souls were hanging in the balance—along with those who sit there listening!  There is such weight in our words!

John Piper has these sobering words for us in “The Supremacy of God in Preaching”:

[T]he first act of saving faith is like an acorn that has within it the spreading oak of all the subsequent perseverance in faith that the Bible says is necessary for final salvation.  We are justified by faith once for all at our conversion, but we must (and most certainly will) also persevere in faith and its fruit in holy affections given to us in seed form at our conversion….  

Preaching is a means of grace to assist saints to persevere.  Perseverance is necessary for final salvation.  Therefore, every sermon is a “salvation sermon”—not just because of its aim to convert sinners, but also in its aim to preserve the holy affections of the saints and so enable them to confirm their calling and election and be saved. (p.83)

So, preach the Gospel—clearly and consistently—to yourself and to your people.  For this we will give account on the Day of Judgment.

FATHERING THE FLOCK

As you know, like a father with his own children, we encouraged, comforted, and implored each one of you to walk worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12)

Paul has likened himself in his gentle dealing with the new converts of Thessalonica to a nurturing mother (v.7-8).  In verses 11-12, the Apostle comes to another dimension of spiritual parenting, as he assumes the role of a father to the flock.  The discerning church leader knows when someone needs a mother's tenderness, and when they need a father's firmness.

Fathering the flock involves encouragement.  This was to stimulate their advancement in the faith.  The pastor who successfully leads the people forward communicates to them, "By the grace of God, you can do this!"

It also means comforting them.  Our members may trudge into the sanctuary on Sunday, beaten down, weary of the burdens they carry.  Sometimes they stumble and need someone to say, "By the promises of God, I want to assure you that you will be alright!"  That's the pastor's job to say.

Fathering the flock, furthermore, causes us to implore the people.  This is a strong urging.  We must have persistence in our insistence.  We set the bar high and communicate biblical expectations.  No excuses are permitted.  The pastor says, "By the authority of God's Word, obey it now!"

Paul's aim was to bring the believers in Thessalonica into a worthy walk with God.  This is one that befits our status as children of the King who will come into the full inheritance in glory someday.  This is who we are as sons and daughters of God.  This demands the pastor's model and message.

It is our task, brothers, to encourage the saints to walk through these discouraging times with their heads held high, to comfort the people to walk through the valleys of life with confidence in Christ, and to implore the members to walk toward glory with a sense of urgency.

IN THE TRENCHES

“For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers.”  (1 Thessalonians 2:9-10 ESV)

Meaningful ministry happens in the trenches.  The pastor is willing to roll up his sleeves and plunge into the midst of the messes his people find themselves in--to lift them and lead them out.  It is as much perspiration as inspiration.  Those who are after a life of ease, filled with perks and privileges, understand nothing of the call of God, and need to get right or get out.  Ministry as God intends it involves labor and toil.  A lazy preacher is a contradiction to his calling.

Paul describes what we call today, "bi-vocational ministry."  Though he had the right to expect the congregation to support him, he refused and chose instead to provide his own financial support.  The bi-vocational minister is not a "part-time" preacher, but has two full-time jobs.  I have done this and can testify to the exhausting responsibility.  Still, God never calls us to a task without providing the grace to accomplish it.

Whether we work in a secular field or depend on the church to meet our needs, sloth has no place in a pastor's life.  None could accuse Paul of that vice--nor of any other.  His behavior was "holy"--that is, he recognized himself as set apart for God and His purposes, and behaved accordingly.  His conduct was "righteous"--in doing the right thing in his dealings with his fellowmen.  His character was "blameless"--with no glaring moral deficiency that could be found.  It is a lofty standard, but one we must incessantly strive to attain.

ARE YOU A FLATTERER?

For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness.   Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ.  (1 Thessalonians 2:5-6)

Encouraging people for their blessing is a commendable thing for a pastor to do.  Flattering folks for the pastor’s benefit is an evil.  Scripture warns about the flattering tongue.  For example, we read this: “A lying tongue hates its victims, and a flattering mouth works ruin.”  (Prov.26:28) and this: “A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.”  (Prov.29:5)  The flatterer is in peril of judgment (Ps.12:3).

Paul never told people what he thought they wanted to hear, but spoke what they needed to hear.  Sometimes those are the same, but often not. 

The flatterer has greed for his motive.  His preaching is a pretext for exalting his own ego rather than edifying the saints.  Such a pastor wants to go places and gain riches, so he primes the pump of the movers and shakers with flattery, that he may profit from their deep pockets.

Giving people a cheerful word when they are downcast is ministry.  Puffing people up with flattery is manipulation.  The congregation may not be able to judge the motive, but be sure God can—and does.

The way to avoid being a flatterer is to be consumed with the glory of God and the good of others.  The flatterer in the pulpit is the one who seeks his own glory and gain.  Brothers, let us search our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit’s fire to refine our motives.

THE PREACHER'S TASK

Preach the word!  (2 Timothy 4:2a)

There are many good things a pastor can do.  There are a number of those things he should do.  There is one thing he must do.  Paul’s charge to Timothy was above all, “Preach the word!”

This is a call to EXALT THE MASTER (v.1).  Paul was an apostle—his favorite title, however was, “a servant of Jesus Christ.”  The man of God is not his own.  I know that every child of God belongs to Christ and has been purchased by His blood, but in a special way a preacher has been set apart for the service of the Lord. 

One factor that motivates the pastor’s obedience is THE AWARENESS OF GOD, “I charge you therefore before God….”  Every thought is read in heaven—it is before God as an open book.  Every word spoken is heard in heaven—it is before God.  Every deed done is witnessed by God—it is before Him.  Nothing escapes His scrutiny.  

The second factor is THE APPEARING OF CHRIST, “and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom….”   Our accountability is not ultimately to our fellow elders, the deacons, or even the congregation, but to Christ.  Your reward or lack thereof is going to be determined by your faithfulness to Christ.  Words have such power.  They play a significant role in our accountability because they are so powerful. 

We are then charged to EMBRACE THE MANDATE (v.2a).  Preaching is our mandate.  God only had one Son and He made Him a preacher.  If you are called to be a preacher, don’t stoop to become a president.  Good activity can become the enemy of the great priority.  The first Apostles refused to let important ministries divert them from their ministry of the Word and prayer.  If the Word of God won’t do it—it won’t get done.  Stand, with a Bible in your hand and speak with the authority of heaven as an ambassador of Jesus Christ.  Preach the Word and not your opinions!

Make certain to EXPOUND THE MESSAGE (v.2b-4).  

Preach the word CONTINUOUSLY, “Be ready in season and out of season.”  Preaching is always in season, even out of season.  Use every opportunity to communicate the truth—individuals, small groups, large gatherings, in written and spoken form.

Do it CONVINCINGLY, “Convince….”  We are not merely giving out information about God—we are demanding a verdict.  

Preach CORRECTIVELY, “rebuke….”  The preacher must confront sin.  A good doctor probes a sore spot.  He cuts out any cancer.  People are spiritually sick.  Spiritual surgery with a Scriptural scalpel is painful, but essential.

Proclaim truth COMPREHENSIVELY, “with all longsuffering and teaching.”  Our messages must be Biblically based, theologically sound and doctrinally instructive—the whole counsel of God.  

Preach the word COURAGEOUSLY, (v.3-4).  We must be faithful in the face of opposition.  Don’t tickle their ears with truth tailored for their tastes.

Don’t fail to EXHIBIT THE MINISTRY (v.5).  Model the message.  “But you be watchful in all things….”  You have been appointed an “overseer.”  You must guard the church from wolves who would prey on the flock.   This requires you, “endure afflictions….”  Trials are going to come.  Don’t quit!  Make sure to “do the work of an evangelist….”  Set the standard for soul-winning.  Thus, you will “fulfill your ministry.”  Demonstrate your devotion daily.  People had rather see a sermon as hear one.

I solemnly charge you—as one who will answer to God—a dying man to dying men, preach as never to preach again!

LEAVING A LEADERSHIP LEGACY

Who is the man that fears the LORD?

Him shall He teach in the way He chooses. 

He himself shall dwell in prosperity,

And his descendants shall inherit the earth.  (Psalm 25:12-13)

I want you to picture your ministry as a relay race.  You have an assigned leg to run—we all have an allotted period of time.  You have an assigned lane to run—we all have an appointed place of service.  We carry in our hands a Bible baton.  It has been handed down to us and now the critical moment comes that determines victory or defeat—the exchange—where we hand the truth of Scripture to the next generation of leaders.  All of us are going to leave behind a legacy.  I believe that was on David’s mind as he writes Psalm 25.  From the context, it would seem to me that he writes from the perspective of a seasoned soldier—a battle-scarred veteran—concerned about the future of his kingdom.

Let us leave a legacy of TRUST (v.1-7). 

David’s testimony declares how his trust was rooted in the greatness of God (v.1-3).  We can trust His power to save us.  David knows where to run when he is in trouble.  Experience has taught the king not to trust in his own strength, but in God’s.  I can say that God has never failed me.  

David also trusted in the guidance of God (v.4-5).  We can trust in His precepts to steer us.  This does not exempt us from storms.  The good news is that if we yield the rudder to the hands of the Captain of our Salvation, we can set sail to new horizons and chart a course for those who come behind!

Furthermore, David trusted in the goodness of God (v.6-7).  We can trust His provision to secure us.  David wasn’t a perfect man.  His failures are documented.  That’s why we need forgiveness.  We don’t trust in our goodness, but in God’s.  Remarkably, He uses flawed people for His glory.

Let us leave a legacy of TRUTH (v.8-15).  Having learned these lessons—sometimes the hard way—we must pass on the baton of truth.  

Having a teachable spirit is the key issue here (v.8-12).  An attitude of humility, devotion, and reverence are essential.  No matter how much we know about ministry, we should never stop learning!  

Our success becomes part of the legacy we leave to our spiritual sons in ministry (v.13).  The blessings of God can be transferred to generations to come.  Success can’t be measured in the size of buildings, budgets, and backsides in pews—it is in eternal impact. 

Friends have no secrets from each other (v.14-15).  They share their heart.  There is a depth of intimacy with God suggested here that we can know.  I have been inspired by others who have walked closely with God, and now I want to share the secret of such a life with others.

Let us leave a legacy of TRIUMPH (v.16-22).  Don’t miss the sequence.  We face the reality of the crisis, but we focus on the God who gives us confidence!  If we only give a brief nod to God, then focus on the crisis, we will be defeated by unbelief.  This is not denying reality (v.16-19); not depending on some kind of positive thinking.  Problems are not permitted to be the focus, however (v.20-22).  The focus is on the Redeemer.  He is the God who is always victorious and our triumph is in Him.

That was the legacy of leadership David would leave.  What about us?

THE LIFE OF LIBERTY

 

For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.  (Galatians 3:26)

Patrick Henry said, “Give me liberty or give me death!”  He recognized there is no life apart from liberty.  This is true spiritually as well.  Jesus came to give us life and liberty.  He said, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.”  What is this truth?  Our Lord responds, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”  Jesus came to give us life through a personal relationship with Him that sets us free from the shackles of sin and death.  Paul explains further concerning the life of liberty in Galatians 3:15-29.

This liberty is a promise of God (v.15-18).  The word, “promise” is used eight times in Galatians 3:15-29.  Specifically, this promise refers to God’s covenant with Abraham. God chose Abraham in sovereign grace, Abraham responded by faith, and God imputed righteousness (3:6).

Since the covenant preceded the law, the false teachers in Galatia said that the law replaced the covenant.  Paul counters this with an illustration from the secular world (v.15).  A contract between two cannot be negated later by someone not a party to the agreement.  Neither could it be argued the covenant was fulfilled when the law was given, because fulfillment was in Christ (v.16).   Abraham didn’t make the covenant and promises.  God did—unilaterally and unconditionally.

What is given by promise is not earned by obedience (v.17-18).  Like oil and water, they don’t mix.   The Greeks had a word for agreement between partners.  That is not the term used here. Salvation is based on God’s faithfulness, not ours.

If the law did not supersede the covenant of grace, then why was it given? That is presented in verses 19-22.   The law is a compass to show us how far we’ve strayed.  It is plumb line to show how crooked we are.  It is a thermometer to show how sick we are.  This is meant to drive us in desperation to Christ.  The expression, “confined all under sin” (v.22) means “lock up in jail.”  The law sentences us to death row, but that causes us to seek pardon.  We can’t escape, so we must have someone intervene.   Like a mirror, the law shows us we are dirty, but cannot cleanse us.

Children need supervision and a restricted area.  Baby-sitters and playpens set limits that are good for them.   We are put in protective custody (v.23).  We are given a tutor (v.24-25).  In the ancient world this was a slave in charge of minor.  He had moral supervision and was a strict disciplinarian.   This is what the law is to us.  The tutor’s task was finished when the child reached maturity.  The word, “sons” (v.26) means “of full age.”  Christians have outgrown the need of a playpen and baby-sitter.  Adulthood brings freedom from that.  Why would anyone want to return to infancy?

Instead, we are to “put on Christ” (v.27).  In Roman society, when youth came of age, they were given a special toga.  The child of God has laid aside the old garments of sin and put on a robe of righteousness.  In Christ, there is no distinction of skin color, social class, or sexual category (v.28).   The ground is level at the cross.  The Jews thought they were Abraham’s seed because of keeping the law. Paul says it is a relationship to Christ by faith that makes us heirs of Abraham’s promises (v.29).

Only Christ can free us from sin and death.  Call out to Him today!