Some of us, like Jonah, initially tried to run from what God was showing us. Pastors have had to face members and acknowledge that some of what they had taught was in error. The title would be an exaggeration, as everything was not wrong. Many pastors have realized that they had to “go back to school.” I have sometimes joked that we should contribute to writing a book, Everything We Knew Was Wrong. Walking in the warfare have been pastors and their spouses, attempting to comfort, soothe, encourage, uplift, direct and gently admonish. There have been ugly scenes of hostility and animosity, with emotions fractured and nerves frayed. They are unable to leave the field of battle, for it follows them everywhere. Pastors and wives are often caught in the middle of “hand-to-hand” combat. Many congregations have seen spiritual pain, hurt and wounds. Please give me a few moments to share some insights about three key thoughts Paul expressed: 1) honor, 2) overwhelm with appreciation and 3) get along. Overwhelm them with appreciation and love! Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. We ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience. Eugene Peterson puts it this way in The Message paraphrase: Live in peace with each other” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Paul told the Thessalonians, “Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, and are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |