Introduction
It would appear that these preachers of the WoF do not a have a solid understanding of what the role of being a pastor actually involves, the deception has not only led their flock astray, but he himself also seems to be confused about the issue at hand. Which in and of itself does not really surprise me the slightest bit since He himself confess that it is not his strong suit. But his way to handle it is to basically dismiss it.
This is what he states, "When somebody is critical or negative about you, your attitude should be, "I'm better than that." So basically instead of actually considering it, you should just ignore it.
Sadly, these preachers methods are not the biblical approach in dealing with false teachers, those who distort the bible for their own personal gain. In fact, when we consider just what the bible teaches we find that their selectivity comes up short. At this point it is wise to consider Paul’s words, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." Such an important focus it is; that Paul states that the pastor must correctly handle and observe the word of God with integrity.
And we will have the opportunity in a later chapter to witness this consistent butchering of God’s word. Let us consider some words from Elder and Scholar James White on this matter,
I have become convinced that nothing less than the very gospel of Jesus Christ is at stake when we speak of the proclamation in preaching. I am painfully aware of how often strident, strong statements such as that are misused in sensationalistic attempts to inflame the passions of one’s audience, ....Yet I believe I have a very firm basis for my statement. (1)
The role of the minister as an ambassador of Christ, an authoritative proclaimer of his divine truth, has been central to the revivals that God has brought to the church over the centuries. It has been a blessing to God's people to know that God has provided a means of proclamation and an example in the preaching ministry. For those who rejoice in having been brought out of the darkness into the glorious light, the fact that he has likewise provided for our instruction through the word and the Spirit is yet another indication that he loves us. (2)
In other words, God has chosen for his people a particular method of getting to know him and his glorious and holy being, which is through the Word that he has inspired many people to communicate for our spiritual benefit and blessing. There is only one method of learning about him and his ways and that is to be taught every spirit breathed word in his scriptures.
This means the method of preaching, the direct manner of teaching both related to the expositional and exegetical proclamation of his word. The flock must be taught the word of God only.
Therefore, when one of them states, "I felt like I got into my groove when I started to encourage people, telling stories and taking apart of the scripture and making it applicable like today." He is violating the Apostle's own words, not only in ignoring the bible but also by passing of a new age philosophies as if it were Christian truth, this is blasphemous by nature.
We can also consider this kind of statement in the following manner; the preacher cannot and never should compromise the scripture for his feelings of his own desired pattern.
So the place which this fundamental error is evidenced; it is the very place where Steven J Lawson comments on in his book, The kind of preaching God blesses, he states the following in Chapter 4:
This inherent power in preaching also increases the minister’s sense of urgency. When the Spirit emboldens him, there is no casual delivery in the pulpit. The Spirit-filled preacher is not indifferent towards the truth. He does not possess a blasé attitude. Nor is there any cold aloofness within him. Instead, the Spirit generates an overwhelming passion to reach people with the gospel. The spirit causes the preachers to burn with intensity as he proclaims Christ…. Whenever the Spirit is at work in the preacher, there is an fervency for Christ and an urgency that the listener must follow him. In his Spirit- energised preaching, there rages an inner fire in the preacher. (3)
Statements from the King and the Histories
Here is the first matter of importance when dealing the biblical presentation on the functioning roles of the elder or pastor, in this I hope to give a fair and balanced view based on the many text that fit into this category.
Let’s consider two important facts that are important for us to understand clearly:
First, the pulpit of the church of God, which is founded in the work of Christ and the outpouring of the Spirit; we should be aware that it has been given a divine mandate as to it's on going function. God has given a treasure trove of information that gives us the clearest picture of his being, his will and his salvific purposes.
Second, if a pastor continuous ignore the biblical truth that are primary in preaching; then we must understand what this leads too, as the scripture states; "my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children. The more priests there were, the more they sinned against me; they exchanged their glorious God for something disgraceful." Hosea 4:6
Let us begin in this examination,
He said to them, How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory? And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. .... He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24: 25 -27, 44-48
I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to finish—the very works that I am doing—testify that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. John 5: 36 -40
Although passages such as these are not the typical ones referenced in such works on the ministry of the Pastoral office; but there is an important element within these passage that can gives us much to recognise the central aspect of the biblical truth. Which is also the central truth of all the biblical world view including the ministerial roles that are interwoven in the fabric of the Scriptures? Here is the central focus "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself" and "These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,
Therefore, based on these scriptures their often repeated view that the bible teaches one, "how to become a better you" we have clear indication that this notion is a false one based on ignorance of the biblical texts. This is the sharpest contrast of the issues, they reveal that these preachers contradicts the bible and is shown to be a false teacher.
Now let us consider some other texts on this matter which will help us determine the truth;
Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe. They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God, they said. Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. Acts 14: 19 -23
“Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of any of you. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. Acts 20:25 -31
Here we have two of the most important text from the Acts of the Apostles, in which Paul lays out some important information and also gives us a warning that needs to heed. The subject at hand revolves around the ministry of a pastor/ elder.
The importance of this information is central to how we understand the roles of the Elders. Let us consider the following facts:
First, a plurality of elders was appointed in each church, this is a helpful matter as it will be a joint mission of delivering the Gospel truth to the masses. And if one errs in his message, the other can bring it to bare upon the person. In order for him to repent of his error against the Lord. They are to also show concern about the spiritual growth of those under their care.
Second, we have this very important warning, "I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise" in other words, false teacher are not just outside the church but operating within the church.
And this last passage also gives us an important factor to watch out for, "distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears" this very clear to what peter says in his second epistle about folks who would "which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction." this is important to fully grasp.
Here is what John Calvin has to state on the subject of Scripture, and it ultimate position in all matters concerning the place it truly deserves,
Before proceeding further, it seems proper to make some observations on the authority of Scriptures, in order that our minds may not only be prepared to receive it with reverence, but be divested of all doubt. When that which professes to be the word of God is acknowledged to be so, no person, unless devoid of common sense and the feeling of a man, will have the desperate hardihood to refuse credit to the speaker. But since no daily response are given from heaven, and the scripture are the only records in which God has been pleased to consign his truth to perpetual remembrance, the full authority which they ought to possess. (4)
Also consider what Derek W. H. Thomas as to offer on the subject at hand, taken from the work Sola Scriptura,
The doctrine of scripture’s absolute and unchangeable authority is, in the end, a Christological issue. The question we should ask ourselves is this: Am I willing to hold to a different view of scriptures than Jesus held to? To give an affirmative answer is to suggest that Jesus was mistaken in his views on bible’s authority. It is to hold to the kenotic view of Jesus, one that suggests his assessments were governed either by the frailty of man or that he so submerged in the first century Jewish culture that he was simply “a man of his time.” Either way, we are not to rely upon his judgements as in any way absolutely true at all times. The massive problem with this formulation is that it leaves us uncertain that anything Jesus said was true in the ultimate sense- even about his mission to save sinners. (5)
The primary passages on what a church should be taught from the pulpit.
As it is always the case the church as a whole should have a good and steady teaching scheme such as chronological or systematic in nature. Paul writing to his younger underling Timothy provides us with a clear picture on what is to be taught in relation to spiritual growth of every
believer.
What is important in grasping is the clear instruction given; let us consider these teachings in order for us to gain understanding.
The first passage to be considered is the following,
As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God's work which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. (1 Timothy 1:3-5)
In light of this teaching we can establish the case that "not to teach false doctrine" refers to anything which as Paul says in the passage later, anything which is not in line with sound doctrine of the Lord. In other words, it must by necessity be based on the established truths of his divinity, his death and resurrection. The Gospel is not about our success, our victory or our well-being; it is in fact, about Christ success, Christ's victory, and Christ’s well-being (or in other words, his perfect life as a ransom). He also states that they (the teachers) must not devote themselves to "myths or genealogies" there is no real need to discuss the latter, but in the case of the former, these WoF teachers are well known for the myth of "power of thought" the name it and claim ideal. Paul nails the coffin in stating "such things promote controversial speculation" since this is exactly what this new age ideology is, it is speculative theories.
But Paul then gives us a sign of hope in these words "The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." sound doctrine is the centre of these three areas being fulfilled. Notice the last words of this passage and their content; "and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted." In other words, the main focus of the teachers, elders, pastors is one of teaching sound doctrines which are said to be "according to the glorious gospel" as in they are to be consistent with the God breathed scriptures, that means the main point is that the gospel is revered by the sound doctrine contained within it.
We also have an important addition to this teaching found in chapter 3; where it states the following, "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach," the aspect here is seen in the whole attitude that one must carry themselves by. In this instance, it is a manner which has a twofold implication, firstly, in the ministry of delivering Gods word with respect to its content. And second, with respect to all believers whether in the church setting or outside of it. Even more, this is also to be seen in other contexts such as witnessing to unbelievers as well.
The second passage to be considered is the following,
Prescribe and teach these things. Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. ... Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you. (1Timothy 4:11-14, 16) (g)
Here we have two things to consider; firstly, Paul gives a command, "but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example" this is such an integral part of the faith; we are called to be salt in a world of darkness. Therefore, our whole manner of living is to be seen in such a light, from "speech" the way we are to communicate it is to be a peaceful manner. "conduct" the way we portray ourselves in a daily basis, "faith" we are to be in constant watch over ourselves, as Paul’s says elsewhere, "examine yourself", then "purity" this could be referring to our conduct as Christians, we are not to defile ourselves by engaging in ungodly deeds, the works of darkness. Secondly, Paul states this, "give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching." what we can take from this is that scriptures have to be the central focus of our whole ministry; in that they are public preached and privately taught on an exegetical basis (reading out from, allowing the text to speak for itself) But in this section we are only given one end of this matter; the importance of being scriptural sound in all matters.
It is not enough for Paul to only mention the importance of scriptural teaching, so he gives a second command on this admonition, "Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching;" for it is far too easy to error in the slightest fashion, there is a need to constantly be aware of the thing you are teaching others. Are they biblical sound?
The only way to know the answer to this question is to subject your teaching to the scriptures and also allow other elder you are in fellowship with hear it as to ascertain whether it is correct.
The third passage to be considered is the following,
If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain (1timothy 6: 3-5)
Here we have some additional information as to the true nature of false teachers and their teachings, we are told that, such people who are not teaching correct doctrine are in fact "conceited and understand nothing" in other words they too self-absorbed in a narcissistic manner and that they understand nothing, they are spiritually bankrupt. They do not know God. And if you take the time to listen to a few of these teachings; you soon discover that this expression is spot on. He spends too much time speaking of himself as the central reason to be alive; he is his own worst enemy.
Paul then goes on to list many signs (if you will) that will encompass such a person’s existence, although perhaps it will not be so obvious, but he gives two final point for consideration. Firstly, they will be in, "constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth" such a teaching like the WoF will only lead to a "depraved mind and (they will) be deprived of the truth" meaning that the teaching only appears to work but is a source of great discontent; Next, we should consider the last words "who suppose godliness as a means of gain" the false teaching will be soaked with the biblical references to fool people into believing it is godly, but the reality it is not even to a degree, The teacher is to be benefitting off peoples ignorance.
The fourth passage to be considered is the following,
Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless and leads to the ruin of the hearers. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness. (2 timothy 2:14-16)
It is the last section in this statement that deserves a close look; it is here Paul gives an instruction which first of all requires a level of understanding in regards to the content of scripture. This comes from having been taught the word from a-z or Genesis to revelation. And secondly, it involves have the desire to correct mistaken views of scripture.
Paul states, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." In other words, be thorough in your understanding of all matters concerning the Scriptural truth. On by doing this, will one be able to handle the word of truth with integrity and respect, for it is the very word of God.
Paul gives a warning right at the end of the passage and here is what it states, "But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness." The word of faith, power of positive thought ideal is just selfish world nonsense which leads to ungodliness; it is this very thing these teachers teaches.
The fifth passage to be considered is the following,
Solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. (2 timothy 4:1-4) (j)
Paul gives one final command to the young Timothy which includes a number of important factors about the role of being a shepherd or pastor. Firstly, we have a now familiar command "preach the word" which is the gospel, the only thing which can bring one to faith and knowledge of the Christ, Jesus our Lord. we are told to be ready in season and out of season. In other words, the gospels place is foundational to all matters.
second, it gives us three thing which are essential to the growth, "reprove, rebuke, and exhort" the function is to bring to light man’s sinfulness, correct and rectify the sin by the work of the Lord if they are the elect, and exhort, as in build-up and encourage the believers to rise up for the Lord in studying the word.
Paul gives another warning which is tied into this main point, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths." Without sound doctrine being expositionally preached, people will find teacher of a like-minded fashion who teach falsely, such as these WoF preachers do.
Here is what reformed pastor Steven J Lawson has to offer on the subject of the preaching the bible from the pulpit in Chapter 1, he states,
The problem with many sermons today is not in what is said, but in what is not said. Many pulpit mention Christ, but only as a mere "life-guru" who stands ready to "coach" us in the game of life. Too many preachers represent Christ as the proverbial genie in the bottle who awaits our beckoning call, grants our every whim, and is ready to fix all our temporal problems. But, to the contrary, preachers must relentlessly magnify the unriveled lordship of Jesus Christ and the redeeming work he accomplished on the cross. All pulpits must passionately declare Christ to be the eternal son of the living God, the only saviour of sinners. (6)
Also consider this next statement from Chapter 3, he states,
The entire bible is focused on the Lord Jesus Christ, who came into the world to save sinners. From cover to cover, all of scripture speaks with one voice about the primacy of his saving death. This is the heartbeat of both the Old and New Testament, pumping divine life into people's souls. To preach the bible means, chiefly, to preach Christ and him crucified. ..... Because Christ is preeminent throughout scripture, he must be foremost in biblical preaching. To preach the rightly necessitates proclaiming Christ faithfully. To faithfully proclaim the written word demands we preach the living word. All biblical preaching must declare Christ as its dominant theme. Because the bible is so Christ-centred, true preaching must likewise be Christ-centred. (7)
In other words, the central and most important subject that the Church of Christ; it has to be familiar with Christ himself. This can only be achieved in and through the authoritative word being preached from beginning to end, as it will lead to true knowledge of Christ and his redeeming sacrifice. The Church has a duty to the divinely written word as the sole infallible truth and the final authority in all matters pertaining to the faith we have been giving in Christ.
Therefore, as a “Christian pastor” Joel has one foundational principal that should be the most central focus, which means every sermon he offers to the “Christian congregation” he pastors must of necessity be biblically saturated. In other words, all that is spoken from the pulpit must be founded upon the divinely revealed word. And not based on emotional trips, personal life or experience, non-Christian teachings of any kind.
The secondary passages on what should be taught from the Pulpit
In the following set of passages we have what can be classed additional advice on the roles of an elder (pastor/overseer/shepherd). By stating that they are secondary I do not mean that they are less important, just simply that they work as addition information.
One should note each has a significant place in their own contextual study but in this examination I have chosen them to play a supportive or additional role.
The first passage to be considered is the following,
You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:14-17)
The transitional point, "But as for you" the one who is now being focused on here is not a deceiver but is someone who is in the truth, the first instruction given is to "continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it." All the things one needs to know are found in the scriptural witness, that’s not to say that everything about the world and all that is in it is in the bible but only key to salvation. If it is enough for Paul, Timothy his beloved Child in faith, then it is equally enough for all who are given to Christ by the father that is not to say other writing are not useful, but that since this is Gods own speech then it is more than capable of doing it work.
The question: What are the scriptures sufficient to do? The simple answer is in this one verse, "which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." If there was something else needed; in order to make it more understandable then this is the place but the only thing mentioned is the divinely inspired writ, the scriptures.
But in this we need to understand that the term scripture is not addressing how many books are considered. But the very nature of that which is too be considered; in other words, it goes to the very source of what is scripture and not the scripture itself. So it is not talking of whether the New Testament was written, what constituted as the old and new. But rather before any word is written; the word to its origin is found in God's being and is expressed through the person who is communicates the power
And it is "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness" and this is the next point that the scripture as to their nature are useful to the spirit born person as these things but it is also point to their very written nature. The other thing here is the first and fourth terms and the second and third are in association. In other words, "teaching / training" and " reproof/correction" so the 1st and 4th are related to the building of the new believer in Christ,
and the 2nd and 3rd are related to the bringing them in line when they have lost sight of the truth. The "Every man may be complete" speaking to the full understanding of his new faith and also how everything relates as in the doctrines and equipped to go and preach the gospel. This makes a good point that one must understand everything intimately and not on the surface level idea; think of it as a relationship if one partner knows the other inside out that they can just instinctively know what to get for them. This takes years, but if the other only has a beginner’s knowledge of his / partner than he/she may make mistakes constantly. This is not to say that if you knew some for a long time in an intimately way. That you won't make mistakes but they won't happen as often. The same point is seen in our relationship to the lord if you have a surface level understanding of the scriptures then your witness will not be as effective in the long run.
The second passage to be considered is the following,
For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion. For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict (Titus 1:5-8)
Here we have another Pauline passage on the issue of eldership, everything mention here is seen in the 1 timothy 3 passage, First of all, we have the points that are important in the personal additives such as, "For the overseer must be above reproach as God's steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled," although these in all manners important, in the church and in public they are nevertheless are aspects of a true godly atmosphere. However, they are universal in nature and are defining factor for the believers.
We have these two important statements to consider, the first one is "holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching," In this we have a rather unique sentiment, is the "faithful word" the same thing as the "teaching" or is something distinct from it. Contextually and biblically speaking, they are connected and are intertwined, as in the fact that the faith word is the scriptures which are being taught. Therefore, the teaching which is a expositional, exegetical based teaching based on the faithful word in scriptures.
The second one is "so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict." Here we have the second factor which is based on the first, when we have a full orbed teaching which leads to a fully scriptural believer who knows his scriptures, he can as it states "exhort" teach correct living and doctrine. "Refute those who contradict" true knowledge leads to true faith and the ability to correct false notion from the scriptures.
The third passage to be considered is the following,
Remember your leaders who have spoken God’s word to you. As you carefully observe the outcome of their lives, imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Don’t be led astray by various kinds of strange teachings; for it is good for the heart to be established by grace and not by foods, since those involved in them have not benefited. .... Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you. Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honourably in all things. And I urge you all the more to do this, so that I may be restored to you the sooner. (Hebrews 13:7-9, 17-19)
Here we are told of those who have been put in the position of authority of the flock of God in the different church, the body of God. Notice what is being communicated in the first line, "Remember your leaders who have spoken God’s word to you. As you carefully observe the outcome of their lives, imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." It is vital for us to actually see what is being said here; the office of the pastor and his role in "proclaiming the word of God" is a perpetual obligation, there can be no change in this central application. Just as Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever as to who is and what he has done, so too is the role of the pastor unchanging.
In fact, the writer of Hebrew’s re-establishes the same truth that Paul communicates, "Don't be led astray by all kinds of strange teaching." In other words, there has to be a consistency to the pastor's message that is found in the preaching and teaching of the divine word.
The fourth passage to be considered is the following,
Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well. Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well. Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires. So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. (James 3:1-5)
James gives us a practical warning against the desire to "become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment." teaching in the church is not something every believer has been assigned by God to do. It is a very big issue as it involves one the most important roles, "teaching the bible" in a God honouring, Christ exalting fashion.
What follows are two important applications, the horse application, and the ship application. What we can take away from these illustrations is that an outside source yields control and directs their paths. Ultimately, it is God who does this but in the immediate sense it is a human who direct and navigates the paths. And likewise it is also an outside source that directs the pastor; of which it is the Holy Spirit.
The fifth passage to be considered is the following,
Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble. (1 peter 5:1-5) (n)
In this final passage we have a great word to offer, notice the statement "exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness" it is here that we also get the same truth that Paul had made a mention of. In that the office and role of the elder is one of teaching and offering biblical related advice not for their own sordid gain (don't offer it for a charge) but only as way to honour and glorify God in your life.
Also, like the writer of Hebrews, Peter tells his reader to "likewise, be subject to your elders;" showing that the flock have an accountability to the elders that is assigned to them, but we can also see the importance of the flock being taught from the word too. When we look to 2 peter 1: 16 -21 which states this little bit of information, "So we have the prophetic word strongly confirmed. You will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dismal place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts." therefore, the elders assigned to the church have been given a strict order to follow the divine writ in all it teaches.
The sixth passage to be considered is the following,
Therefore, dear friends, while you wait for these things, make every effort to be found at peace with Him without spot or blemish. Also, regard the patience of our Lord as an opportunity for salvation, just as our dear brother Paul has written to you according to the wisdom given to him. He speaks about these things in all his letters in which there are some matters that are hard to understand. The untaught and unstable twist them to their own destruction, as they also do with the rest of the Scriptures. 2 Peter 3: 14-16
Here we have a simple teaching about the sufficiency of scriptures and at that it is real simple one. When we follow through this passage we notice the following two points:
Firstly, in these words “Paul has written to you according to the wisdom given to him … in all his letters” we see a real important point being established in this; just as the written word is the only foundation we as believers can rest in and rely upon (consider 2 peter 1: 20-21). In other words, the scripture testify to their own veracity and sufficiency.
Second, in these words “The untaught and unstable twist them to their own destruction, as they also do with the rest of the Scriptures.” Let’s consider this carefully; this statement is also one
about the veracity and sufficiency of scripture. It is also a warning against people who have a perverted mind and are bent on twisting the scriptures truth, even though they may appear to be sincere.
The most important point in the whole passage is the unity of the Christians to which peter was writing to, and it is also a vital for all Christians throughout time and space, for all eras. Therefore, the importance of both point above being seen in union by not giving away to false teachers and their deception; as well as knowing that the God breathed revelations are unique as to their nature and for that purpose they are fully sufficient in what they are meant for.
It would be important to show we are adhering to the word of God in every service that the churches make available, the trouble in these last days is that the church is not concerned with teaching the bible in an expositional, exegetical fashion that it once was. Here are the final words I offer which come from James White;
How one views the scripture will determine the rest of ones theology. There is no more basic issue: every system of thought that takes seriously the claims of the bible to be the inspired, authoritative word of God will share a commitment to particular central truths and that without compromise. The systems that do not begin with this belief in scriptures will exhibit a wide range that will shift over time in light of the ever changing whims and views of culture. Almost every collapse involving denominations and churches in regard to historic Christian beliefs can be traced back to degradation in that groups view of the bible as the inspired and inerrant revelation of God's truth. Once this foundation is lost, the house that was built upon it cannot long stand. --- Scripture alone, page 43. (10)
End notes.
(1) James R White -- Pulpit Crimes, chapter 1, page 11.
(2) James R White -- Ibid. Chapter 2, page 22
(3) Steven J Lawson -- the kind of preaching God loves, Ch. 4, Page 85
(4) John Calvin -- the institutes of the Christian Religion, Ch. 7, Page 41
(5) Derek W H Thomas -- Sola Scriptura, Chapter 4, Page 66
(6) Steven J Lawson -- the kind of preaching God loves, Ch.1, page 24
(7) Steven J Lawson -- Ibid. Ch. 3, Page 57
(8) James R White -- Scripture Alone, Chapter 3, page 43.
