Praise the Lord!

 

I grew up in the Methodist Church tradition. It really saddens me all that has taken place in that denomination. The Methodist had a tradition of moving pastors on a regular basis. I have mixed feelings about that process. It takes some time for a pastor to get established and to thrive in a community of believers. That transition from one pastor to another can be hard on a congregation. On the other hand, I know there are many good pastors who out-stay their productivity within a local church. It takes a lot of discipline and confidence to realize when it is time to make a change. My Dad went into ministry late in life and passed away 24 years ago January. I was never greatly affected by him moving from one church to another and really, my mom and brothers who lived at home during those times of transition, were not adversely affected. They recovered and thrived. 

In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas were traveling the countryside planting churches. We are told they were in the towns of Lystra nd Derbe when they came upon a crippled man who had never been able to walk.

“…He was sitting and listening as Paul preached. Looking straight at him, Paul realized he had faith to be healed. So Paul Called to him in a loud voice, “Stand Up!” And the man jumped to his feet and started walking.” (Acts 14:8b-10)

The crowd was amazed at this miracle. I am sure I would be amazed as well. But, they took it a step too far. They started comparing Paul and Barnabas to the Greek gods Zeus and Hermes. They completely missed the Good News these two preachers shared. 

That can happen to some degree in a church. People can get infatuated with the man in the leadership position at a church. It is ok and great to have honor and respect for our pastors. And, yes, I have a group of pastors that I greatly revere. I believe they have clearly been chosen by God to spread the gospel. But, I stop short of placing them on a pedestal. I have been around enough pastors and read enough of the headlines to know pastors fail. I see many times that failure is a result of pride and lack of humility. 

Here in this passage, Paul and Barnabas handle the situation with honor and boldness. The message was clear, this is not about us! This is about the power unleashed on the Cross of Jesus. 

“But when Barnabas and Paul heard what was happening, they tore their clothing in dismay and ran out among the people, shouting, ‘Friends, why are you doing this? We are merely human beings - just like you! We have come to bring you the Good News that you should turn from these worthless things and turn to the living God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them.’”(Acts 14:14-15)

We should love our pastors, we should respect and honor them for their calling, we should support them by joining their ministry. The best thing any church member can do is to respond to the words being shared by your church leader. Respond with acts of love and kindness. Respond by going out and making disciples as we are all instructed. Refrain from praising your pastor, instead Praise the Lord!