THE PASTOR AND CHARACTER
Introduction
Today’s church is in great need of pastor’s that has godly character. He should be one that is not in it for the professionalism, but is in it to be an example of Christ. Fortunately, God inspired the Holy Scriptures that define the character the man of God is supposed to have. Furthermore, there is no greater standard to hold a man to than the word of God; therefore, this article seeks to show that the shepherd of God must not only be an example to the flock of God, but also he is to be an example to everyone in all manner of life set forth by the apostle Paul as he urged young Timothy, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12 ESV)
A Living Example to the Flock of God
First of all, a shepherd may be theologically inclined, but still be ineffective. Especially, if he is not living what he is teaching. God’s people deserve and require an example to follow. In fact, it is God’s provision to help his people follow the gospel. In the New Testament Paul writes, “Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you,” (2 Thess. 3:6-7 ESV). Therefore, the man of God must lead the flock as an example to follow. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 36)
Secondly, the Shepherd of God should also desire to not be disqualified for his character. Naturally, as God’s man he should want to live what he preaches because this is what God desires. Consider what Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified” (1 Cor. 9:26-27 ESV). Therefore, the life of the shepherd should be characterized by being a good teacher, but also living it out as an example through the fruit of the spirit. The two go hand and hand they cannot be done separately in order for there to be right living. In other words, the shepherd’s gifts prove its worth to the flock of God as his character is the example of the truth he proclaims. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 36)
Thirdly, all Christian are to follow the example of Christ. He is the supreme or main example to follow. However, the shepherd of God has a greater responsibility to carry this out in daily living. In fact, Paul urged the Philippians to follow whatever they had learned from him because he knew that it was the example Christ had lived and inspired in him. (Phil 4:9) Also, all Christians have the responsibility of encouraging others on to do good works. However, the leaders of God’s flock have a greater responsibility to carry this out among the flock of God. (Hebrew 10:24) (Prime and Begg, 2004, 38)
Therefore, a shepherd must realize he is held to a stricter judgment. The New Testament writer in the book of James writes it this way, “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” (James 3:1 ESV) Peter taught that the essential task of the Elder is to be “examples to the flock.”(1 Peter 5:3) Furthermore, if the man of God wants to attain “the crown of glory that will never fade away,” he must go above and beyond to be the example Christ’ church needs in order to effectively lead them down a path of righteousness. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 39)
A Living Example to All
First of all, the shepherd of God is required to communicate either by teaching, preaching, or leading in discussions. He has the responsibility live out what Paul urged Timothy, “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12 ESV) Therefore, shepherds and teachers must be on guard at all times because he is still a sinner capable of sinning with his tongue. So, he must not be quick tempered, quarrelsome, and frivolous. Moreover, he must think before he speaks making sure that what he says is thoughtful and considerate no matter what situation he is required to address. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 39-40)
Secondly, the shepherd of God must be holy and upright in all manner of life. (Titus 1:8) This is not to be done only in public, but also in private life as well. He must not neglect his neighbors, he must be positive about life, his lifestyle should exemplify that his treasure is on heavenly things and not on earthly things by having a good work ethic, not for worldly gain, his home should be well managed, (1 Timothy 3:15) worthy of respect, (1 Timothy 3:8) and have a good reputation with outsiders. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 40-41)
Thirdly, the shepherd of God must be an example of love. He is to love God and people, and be willing to open his home to them. (1 Timothy 3:2) He is to have a good reputation with all by showing love toward them to gain their respect. (1 Timothy 3:7-8) He display’s this love through gentleness and self control. (1 Timothy 3:2-3) He is to love the difficult and unattractive as well because love is the most powerful weapon as well as the answer to most relational problems in the church. Therefore, the shepherd of God must love everyone equally, so that he may be found blameless. Moreover, that the church would experience the love of God from the example the shepherd models. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 42)
Fourthly, the shepherd of God must model the principle that “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrew 11:6) because it is fundamental to do effective ministry. He must realize love and faith are inseparable, (1 Timothy 2:15) and is at the forefront of leading the community of people he belongs to grow in love. He must be knowledgeable in his faith to not only teach it, but also refute those who oppose it. (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8) The shepherd of God must excel in bible study, devotions, and reading other literature that nurtures his faith, so that he will be able to set the example of living out the faith. (Prime and Begg, 2004, 43-44)
Lastly, the shepherd of God must live a life of purity. Why? Because our Lord is pure, (1 John 3:3) and those who follow him should be pure. He should be an example by dealing honestly with himself and with others. Those that are married should be committed to their wives. (Titus 1:6) Our behavior with the opposite sex must be above reproach. (1 Timothy 3:2) These must be essential priorities because God has entrusted “His work” to Pastor’s, (Titus 1:7) and the flock is paid for by His blood. (John 21:15-17; Acts 20:28) Therefore, pastors should set a high standard for them to live a life of purity so that those following can imitate them, and in turn find themselves imitating Christ. (1 Thess. 1:6) (Prime and Begg, 2004, 44-45)
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