FOCUSING ON THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD
Paul told the young pastor Timothy to avoid focusing on silly distractions and people who might despise his leadership. Instead, he was to give his attention to the ministry of the Word–– its public reading, its “exhortation” (“preaching”) and its teaching.
The pastor in today’s church faces perhaps the most complex, multi-faceted set of needs and expectations of any generation. The modern church wants him to be and do all things well. Yet, Paul’s instruction holds more true than ever. We need churches that are led by pastors who are focused on the ministry of the Word. And we need church members who recognize their responsibility to be led and equipped by such pastors.
Do you encourage your pastor to focus on the ministry of the Word?
PRAYER: Dear Father, we are thankful for Your Word. We want to give it our full attention and we want to fully support those You have called to minister the Word to us. We fill our minds with Your Word. Open our lips today to proclaim it to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.