Transforming Sermons: Saving ourselves

Monday, June 16, 2008

"The only way to prevent ministry from becoming an idol is to find our identity in Jesus rather than in the church."

Anonymous said...: do you find this to be true in preaching? is it really easy for preachers to get caught up in the work of what they are trying to do?; 12:02 PM, June 16, 2008
Milton Stanley said...: Yes, I think it is easy for preachers to get caught up in the work.

I find it to be true that sin goes deeper than we usually think about. I wouldn't say it as strongly s Darryl does, but I can relate to the idea of sinfully tying self-worth to ministry success.

On the other hand, I don't think it's always sinful to be motivated by an inner desire--what Jeremiah called fire in the bones (Jer 20:9) and Paul called "compulsion" (1 Cor. 9:16).

I find it helpful to tell myself that God comes before everything, but that family comes before ministry. Of course, that may simply shift the idolatry from ministry to family...; 8:12 AM, June 17, 2008
Anonymous said...: thanks for answering my questions.

peace to you; 7:28 PM, June 17, 2008
Milton Stanley said...: You're welcome. Thanks for asking. Peace.; 12:01 PM, June 18, 2008