“’What sorrow awaits the leaders of my people—the shepherds of my sheep—for they have destroyed and scattered the very ones they were expected to care for,’ says the LORD.” Jeremiah 23:1 (NLT)
God holds His people, specifically leaders, to a higher standard than the world. To have a weekly, or regular platform (pulpit) is a blessing, honor and responsibility. It’s a privilege that comes with a high cost! What pastors do with that opportunity is very, VERY important! In the parable of the talents, those who invest what they’ve been given are entrusted with more. But those who are unfaithful with what they’ve been entrusted with, will suffer severe consequences. Jesus even said that those who lead His little ones astray (or prevent them from coming near to Him) will find it better if they had a millstone tied around their neck and thrown into the deep sea (Matthew 18:6)! Yikes!!! James, the half-brother of Jesus said that teachers will be judged more severely (James 3:1). Very strong words! And what about those who prevent their sheep from experiencing the power and presence of the Holy Spirit through their teaching and/or tight programing of their services? Woe to them! Jeremiah 23:1 says “woe to you pastors” (KJV), “shepherds of My people” (NLT). To those much has been given much is expected (Luke 12:48).
Pastors are entrusted with the word of God. For them to not preach with fear of God, accurately and completely, they will be held accountable. Pastors your call is to equip the saints. To teach them who God is! And to teach the full word of God and how to apply it to the issues of our day. You must address things like abortion, gender, sexual morality, alcohol use, idolatry (i.e. sports), marriage, etc. If your sheep don’t hear it from you, they will seek it from other places, including the world! And pastors do not hinder your sheep from being touched by the Holy Spirit because you’re afraid of losing control of your service (to God). God knows what your sheep need better than you do! Don’t keep them from experiencing the more that God has for them!
Pray for you pastor as he has much upon him. Pray that there would be a fresh awakening to the responsibility that God has placed upon his shoulders in preaching the word and leading the worship services. Pray that he would be teachable by the Holy Spirit and humble enough to repent for any and every area he has compromised or kept people from experiencing the Holy Spirit. Ask God to show you how to pray more effectively for your pastor!
