Tuesday, December 20, 2005

Following one man

Out of Ur looks at the role of pastor in thecontext of the whole church's mission:
I am . . . convinced that Christ is not revealed to the world through any one man, but through his people—the church. We live in a culture that promotes autonomy and individualism. As a result we foolishly take the mission given to the church, and we make it the mission of the pastor. We elevate individuals on a pedestal, and become disillusioned when they fail to meet our expectations. No single man embodies the fullness of Christ, and we should not expect one to.
Amen. The error of expecting the minister to do the work of the whole church, by the way, can be found even in congregations that don't call him "pastor." How, then, should the church reclaim a right perspective? By keeping our eyes on Jesus:
. . . I am convinced that the church will only fulfill its calling when we embrace the reality of Christ in us, the hope of glory. For too long our hope has been in programs, strategies, politics, or leaders. We have confused the wisdom of the world for the wisdom of God. Our hope is not in these things, but in the mystery that Christ dwells in us; ever ready to reveal his glorious wisdom that is foolishness to the world.
Amen.

2 Comments:

Blogger Pilgrim feet said...

Yes brother, but they need to be taught by that man of God. Not from "Christo-pop culture" but from the Word of God and through His Holy Spirit (the after-teacher). My Dad (a pastor) has always said he'd like to hear what the man (pastor/preacher) thinks the Word says-not what the commentaries or the lastet book out says. You dig? Preachers need to teach-as much as they preach.

3:49 PM, December 20, 2005  
Blogger Milton Stanley said...

I dig, although I do think what the Bible itself says is more important than what any one man says. Thanks for your comments, tc.

7:55 PM, December 20, 2005  

Post a Comment

<< Home