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Understanding the Presentation and Preservation of God's Word Parenthood as Taught in the Word of God God's Workings in Christian's Lives |
Knowing More about God's Man
Introduction: Our pastors-we look to them for protection, inspiration and guidance. We come to church on Sunday to listen as they speak the Word of God, but many might not know what the pastor actually does, outside of weekend services. God's Word states you are to know your Spiritual Leader.
I Thessalonians 5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
I. The Role of the Pastor…Defined
Pastors pray with some folks after an altar call. Pastors are often equated with being like shepherds-looking for and guiding sheep who are wandering. In fact, the word "pastor" in Latin means "shepherd".
The pastor is here to lead you into a life-changing and productive relationship with Jesus Christ. His mission is to equip, reach out, and minister to the lost and hurting people in your area and the rest of the world.
Here are some other roles and responsibilities:
Pastors lead the church or their ministry in worship-designing worship or messages that bring people closer to God.
Pastors counsel others on all sorts of matters. From marriage, to careers, to overall spiritual advice, they offer free counsel based on the direction from the Word of God.
Pastors are spiritual leaders. They help others develop a personal relationship with God. They are spiritual coverings for our church, and pray for the members of our church.
Pastors are servants of God. They faithfully go when called to minister to others. Whether it is comforting a person in a hospital bed, bringing love and encouragement to a homeless person, or preaching to a lost soul, they are always reaching out to others.
Pastors are community builders. They get out and make a difference in the community. They witness, encourage and challenge people Spiritually
Pastors develop organizational management. Whether it's creating a vision for the church and ministries, or overseeing the leadership, The pastor spends time planning and orchestrating these duties.
Pastors perform administrative duties. Oftentimes these tasks are invisible, but not indispensable.
II. Why Pastors Need Our Support?
The Pastors and church leaders need our prayer, appreciation and encouragement because they, just like anyone else, need spiritual, physical and family support.
Many pastors (and their families) are on the frontlines of spiritual battle and live their lives under spotlights and magnifying glasses. They need our prayer to help continue living godly lives and to be strong, inspired leaders of our church.
Jesus asked for the prayer and support of his disciples. In Luke 22:38 -46 Jesus' burden was so heavy that sweat like drops of blood fell to the ground. He was praying in the Mount of Olives on the eve of His crucifixion, and needing the spiritual support of his disciples. He said to them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
In Exodus 17:10-13, Moses stood atop a hill with the staff of God in his hands. Moses' hands grew tired and became so heavy that he couldn't hold them up without the help of two men named Aaron and Hur, who held his hands steady until sunset. He needed the physical support of others to win the battle.
III. Lastly, the families of our pastors need our prayer and support.
Oftentimes, our pastors are very busy with their pastoral responsibilities that they might not get to spend as much time with their loved ones as they would like to, or have the financial resources their family needs.
While we may not all be called to be pastors, we are all called to support those who are. Hebrews 13:17 says, Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
IV. How We Can Support Our Pastors?
Take this opportunity to let your pastor know that you're supporting him with prayer, that you appreciate him, and that you love him. You will be surprised how much just a little note of encouragement or a simple act of kindness can do.
Every serving member of the church can use your prayer, support, and encouragement as well. They experience many of the same challenges our pastors do.
Write your pastor an encouraging note the first day of every month this year.
Send his wife flowers and a thank you note-she plays an important support role.
Actively listen during the sermon. Nod your head. Take notes. Say "amen".
Faithfully and joyfully use your spiritual gifts within the church body.
Write a note or email to tell your pastor how they have affected your life.
Volunteer to help your pastor out with administration duties at the office.
Bake cookies or leave special treats in the office.
Most importantly, honor your pastor during 12 months of the year. Be faithful! It does make a difference.
Conclusion: Remember Jude 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference:
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