“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”
As we have been reminded this week of the job of a pastor called of God, we looked at Peter’s advice as to his calling, his hope, his focus and his tasks. Peter shared the motive of serving and the reward of a life that has been faithful in serving his Lord and Master.
Watch out for leaders who demand authority, who seek greater possessions, who violate Biblical principles, or build themselves up. John the Baptist said, "He must increase, but I must decrease?" John knew his job was to prepare the way for people to follow Jesus, not himself.
Peter also knew that in spite of his gifts of preaching, evangelism, and teaching, as the chef spokesman for the disciples, he was to point people to the Chief Shepherd. The point Peter makes is that the sheep do not belong to the pastor, they belong to Jesus Christ, the Chief Shepherd. We are under His authority and care.
Pastors are sheep as well called to follow the Chief Shepherd. The motive for ministry is not higher wages and better salary, but that the needs of he and his family are met.
It is perfectly proper for the church to pay their pastors and to be as generous as possible. The Biblical motive for serving is God’s call on his life.
Jesus called us not only to change the world, but have effect on people's eternal destination. In whatever you enjoy doing, let God move within you that you can influence others in their relationship with God.
There are times when attendance is up and at times it was down; times when people seem responsive to the gospel and times when they are not. There are times when people are excited about programs and times when there is nothing but complaints and problems. There is something more than professionalism or faithfulness - there are seasons of the Spirit. It is appropriate to do self-evaluation and listen to others to confirm one's spiritual gift, but the call to ministry is something far deeper than popularity. It is the urgency of God, that we must be about His work and are willing to do it or we will be unfulfilled.
When I was discouraged and felt like quitting, I asked myself what else would I rather do than serving Jesus in ministry? There was nothing else. There are many reasons to quit, but the motive is to trust and obey one’s call from the Chief Shepherd.
Application: Pray for a fervent desire to serve Him for the glory to be revealed and the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Prayer: Lord, I know that Your rewards are the best. May my walk and ministry always be focused on You and Your Glory.
