Blog https://www.gracegreatbend.org Mon, 18 Mar 2024 21:28:29 -0500 http://churchplantmedia.com/ Duties of a Pastor, Part 7 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-7 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-7#comments Thu, 21 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-7 Pastors Build Wisely

 

In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses concerns he has about divisions among them. Specifically, he warns them about becoming obsessed with one apostle over another. He sees this as a sign of spiritual immaturity. 

 

Paul tells them that he and Apollos are fellow workers and the church is God's field and God's building. From that analogy, he goes on to speak about his work as a master builder. Paul established the church at Corinth with skill. Others will come after him and build on that foundation which is Jesus Christ. 

 

Then Paul makes this crucial point that church leaders must take to heart. Those who come after and build on that foundation must do so with costly materials. 

 

 For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw-- 13 each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. 14 If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. (1 Cor. 3:11 ESV) 

 

How do Pastors fit into this building work? In Ephesians 4, Paul writes that the pastor/teachers equip the body to do the work of the ministry for the building up of the body of Christ. In other words, pastors are builders. They help equip the church to build and to grow. 

 

In practical terms, this means that the pastors/elders in a church must be selective in how they help the church do ministry. They have to discern the kinds of precious materials that will last compared to shallow and temporary fads. They must be sure that the primary biblical structures are in place and then judiciously evaluate any additional programs or activities.

 

Pastors and elders oversee building the church so it may grow into a solid, biblical, and healthy structure. 

]]>
Pastors Build Wisely

 

In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses concerns he has about divisions among them. Specifically, he warns them about becoming obsessed with one apostle over another. He sees this as a sign of spiritual immaturity. 

 

Paul tells them that he and Apollos are fellow workers and the church is God's field and God's building. From that analogy, he goes on to speak about his work as a master builder. Paul established the church at Corinth with skill. Others will come after him and build on that foundation which is Jesus Christ. 

 

Then Paul makes this crucial point that church leaders must take to heart. Those who come after and build on that foundation must do so with costly materials. 

 

 For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw-- 13 each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. 14 If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. (1 Cor. 3:11 ESV) 

 

How do Pastors fit into this building work? In Ephesians 4, Paul writes that the pastor/teachers equip the body to do the work of the ministry for the building up of the body of Christ. In other words, pastors are builders. They help equip the church to build and to grow. 

 

In practical terms, this means that the pastors/elders in a church must be selective in how they help the church do ministry. They have to discern the kinds of precious materials that will last compared to shallow and temporary fads. They must be sure that the primary biblical structures are in place and then judiciously evaluate any additional programs or activities.

 

Pastors and elders oversee building the church so it may grow into a solid, biblical, and healthy structure. 

]]>
Question about Baptism https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/question-about-baptism https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/question-about-baptism#comments Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/question-about-baptism The question was asked, "...I read the section on the churches constitution, your beliefs. I didn't see anything on Baptism and would like to know what your beliefs for the church is on that subject."

In the seventh part of our statement, it states, "The Lord Jesus mandated two ordinances, baptism and the Lord's Supper, which visibly and tangibly express the gospel. Though they are not the means of salvation, when celebrated by the church in genuine faith, these ordinances confirm and nourish the believer."

At Grace, we practice believer's baptism by immersion. I hope that helps. If you would like to chat, feel free to email me directly and set up a time. 

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The question was asked, "...I read the section on the churches constitution, your beliefs. I didn't see anything on Baptism and would like to know what your beliefs for the church is on that subject."

In the seventh part of our statement, it states, "The Lord Jesus mandated two ordinances, baptism and the Lord's Supper, which visibly and tangibly express the gospel. Though they are not the means of salvation, when celebrated by the church in genuine faith, these ordinances confirm and nourish the believer."

At Grace, we practice believer's baptism by immersion. I hope that helps. If you would like to chat, feel free to email me directly and set up a time. 

]]>
Duties of a Pastor, Part 6 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part#comments Thu, 19 Aug 2021 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part To Serve and Protect

Duties of a Pastor, Part 6

 

A good shepherd protects the flock from predators. In fact, Jesus uses this metaphor for himself to distinguish between a good shepherd and a hireling. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.” (Jn. 10:11 ESV)

 

Good shepherds had to be willing to risk their lives. David describes his shepherding days.” But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, 35 I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him.” (1 Sam. 17:34 ESV)

 

Paul sees the exact same role for pastors/shepherds/elders. In Acts 20 he is saying goodbye to the elders from Ephesus. He calls them to be vigilant. “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. 29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock;” (Acts 20:28 ESV)

 

The term “pastor” means “shepherd”. He along with his fellow elders are called by God to protect the flock. They are to have a watchful eye so that no predator can come in and bring spiritual destruction or death to the church or to souls under his care.

 

There are three common dangers he must protect against.

 

First, there is the danger disunity from infighting and unforgiveness. In 2Corinthians 2, Paul speaks of his desire and determination to extend forgiveness toward members of the church. And the reason he gives is stated in v. 11. “so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.” (2 Cor. 2:11 ESV) The devil seeks whom he may devour, and sowing bitterness in hearts is a key tactic. Shepherds will have an eye out for such “designs.”

 

This divisiveness can take a very human form. So, Paul makes it clear that a divisive person must be dealt with. “As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.” (Tit. 3:10 ESV)

 

Second, false teaching is a threat.  False teaching seems to be Paul’s concern in that Acts 20 passage. He says in v.30, “and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.” (Acts 20:30 ESV)

 

Through the years I have no doubt frustrated some in my congregation by not embracing every new book or trend that becomes popular. We do this, because many such movements contain theological errors. Many of these distort as much as deny the truth.  A shepherd guards against such false or poor teaching.

 

Third, sin is a threat.  When the church allows blatant, unrepentant sin to continue, eventually, the whole church is tainted. Paul uses the analogy of a bread dough that is entirely leavened by even a small amount of yeast. Elders keep watch over the flock and exhort and admonish the unrepentant to confess and turn form wickedness. When they do not, the elders must take necessary steps to protect the congregation. We will talk more about this when we get to the topic of church discipline.

 

The role of shepherd is not an easy one. Threats are real. Our enemy is real, and we are not unaware of his devices.  When congregations understand this role, everyone benefits. When there is confusion about this task, misunderstandings abound.  This is why we need to learn the basics of the pastoral role.

 

 

 

]]>
To Serve and Protect

Duties of a Pastor, Part 6

 

A good shepherd protects the flock from predators. In fact, Jesus uses this metaphor for himself to distinguish between a good shepherd and a hireling. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.” (Jn. 10:11 ESV)

 

Good shepherds had to be willing to risk their lives. David describes his shepherding days.” But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, 35 I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him.” (1 Sam. 17:34 ESV)

 

Paul sees the exact same role for pastors/shepherds/elders. In Acts 20 he is saying goodbye to the elders from Ephesus. He calls them to be vigilant. “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. 29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock;” (Acts 20:28 ESV)

 

The term “pastor” means “shepherd”. He along with his fellow elders are called by God to protect the flock. They are to have a watchful eye so that no predator can come in and bring spiritual destruction or death to the church or to souls under his care.

 

There are three common dangers he must protect against.

 

First, there is the danger disunity from infighting and unforgiveness. In 2Corinthians 2, Paul speaks of his desire and determination to extend forgiveness toward members of the church. And the reason he gives is stated in v. 11. “so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.” (2 Cor. 2:11 ESV) The devil seeks whom he may devour, and sowing bitterness in hearts is a key tactic. Shepherds will have an eye out for such “designs.”

 

This divisiveness can take a very human form. So, Paul makes it clear that a divisive person must be dealt with. “As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.” (Tit. 3:10 ESV)

 

Second, false teaching is a threat.  False teaching seems to be Paul’s concern in that Acts 20 passage. He says in v.30, “and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.” (Acts 20:30 ESV)

 

Through the years I have no doubt frustrated some in my congregation by not embracing every new book or trend that becomes popular. We do this, because many such movements contain theological errors. Many of these distort as much as deny the truth.  A shepherd guards against such false or poor teaching.

 

Third, sin is a threat.  When the church allows blatant, unrepentant sin to continue, eventually, the whole church is tainted. Paul uses the analogy of a bread dough that is entirely leavened by even a small amount of yeast. Elders keep watch over the flock and exhort and admonish the unrepentant to confess and turn form wickedness. When they do not, the elders must take necessary steps to protect the congregation. We will talk more about this when we get to the topic of church discipline.

 

The role of shepherd is not an easy one. Threats are real. Our enemy is real, and we are not unaware of his devices.  When congregations understand this role, everyone benefits. When there is confusion about this task, misunderstandings abound.  This is why we need to learn the basics of the pastoral role.

 

 

 

]]>
Duties of a Pastor, Part 4 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/pastors https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/pastors#comments Mon, 24 May 2021 09:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/pastors Pastors Pray for their People

To my knowledge, there is no single verse in scripture that says, "pastors, pray for your people." However, I believe that every pastor/elder should make prayer for his people an unrelenting pursuit. Consider the following biblical reasoning.


The apostles considered it a chief duty. Elders/pastors, of course, are not apostles. Yet, there are certain valid analogies that can be made between pastors and apostles. For instance, the apostles could command a person to be healed in certain cases. That was one way in which they were unique. But, in local churches, the sick were to seek out their elders for prayer. (James 5:14)

The apostles appointed men to serve alongside of them to do many practical ministries so that they could devote themselves to preaching the word and prayer. (Acts 6:4) In local churches, there are two key roles established, i.e., elders who lead and minister the word to the church and deacons who function as support. By analogy, elders should consider prayer essential for their duties.

Jesus set an example of how to care for those in your charge. He prayed for his disciples. There are several such examples. Paul prayed for those under his charge, especially for the churches.

Prayer becomes a way to serve the church in humility. By praying for his people, an elder is helping them, which is the essence of humility.

Prayer brings a sense of peace to a pastor's heart as he seeks to minister to his people. Sin, conflict, and a mountain of needs can challenge even the strongest souls. Prayer keeps an elder balanced and relying on the chief shepherd of our souls.

Prayer deepens a pastor's understanding for his people. When an elder consistently seeks prayer requests, writes them down, and goes over them, it gives him a clearer window into his people's lives. A shepherd knows his sheep, but human shepherds struggle to know them well. Prayer is a daily practice that cements that kind of knowledge.

Prayer deepens an elder's love for his people. It is hard to hate a person for whom you pray. That is why we are told to love our enemies and pray for them. That same principle works when it comes to pastoral care. The more he prays, the deeper he feels invested in and compassionate for his flock.

Prayer builds faith for the task. Prayer acknowledges something crucial to any ministry. That is an awareness of one's inabilities and of God's abilities and provision. Pity the pastor/elder who thinks he can do it in his own strength. Prayer aligns the heart to the reality of one's weakness and builds one's faith.

Prayer works. This is so obvious that it might get missed. A pastor prays for his church because God answers prayer. Prayer far outstrips our puny efforts. So an elder doesn't just pray for the sake of his own character development. He prays for results that God is pleased to give according to our needs.

The pastors/elders at Grace recently went through training in how to pray for our congregation. Please know that they are committed to this task. They would covet your prayers for them in turn.

 

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Pastors Pray for their People

To my knowledge, there is no single verse in scripture that says, "pastors, pray for your people." However, I believe that every pastor/elder should make prayer for his people an unrelenting pursuit. Consider the following biblical reasoning.


The apostles considered it a chief duty. Elders/pastors, of course, are not apostles. Yet, there are certain valid analogies that can be made between pastors and apostles. For instance, the apostles could command a person to be healed in certain cases. That was one way in which they were unique. But, in local churches, the sick were to seek out their elders for prayer. (James 5:14)

The apostles appointed men to serve alongside of them to do many practical ministries so that they could devote themselves to preaching the word and prayer. (Acts 6:4) In local churches, there are two key roles established, i.e., elders who lead and minister the word to the church and deacons who function as support. By analogy, elders should consider prayer essential for their duties.

Jesus set an example of how to care for those in your charge. He prayed for his disciples. There are several such examples. Paul prayed for those under his charge, especially for the churches.

Prayer becomes a way to serve the church in humility. By praying for his people, an elder is helping them, which is the essence of humility.

Prayer brings a sense of peace to a pastor's heart as he seeks to minister to his people. Sin, conflict, and a mountain of needs can challenge even the strongest souls. Prayer keeps an elder balanced and relying on the chief shepherd of our souls.

Prayer deepens a pastor's understanding for his people. When an elder consistently seeks prayer requests, writes them down, and goes over them, it gives him a clearer window into his people's lives. A shepherd knows his sheep, but human shepherds struggle to know them well. Prayer is a daily practice that cements that kind of knowledge.

Prayer deepens an elder's love for his people. It is hard to hate a person for whom you pray. That is why we are told to love our enemies and pray for them. That same principle works when it comes to pastoral care. The more he prays, the deeper he feels invested in and compassionate for his flock.

Prayer builds faith for the task. Prayer acknowledges something crucial to any ministry. That is an awareness of one's inabilities and of God's abilities and provision. Pity the pastor/elder who thinks he can do it in his own strength. Prayer aligns the heart to the reality of one's weakness and builds one's faith.

Prayer works. This is so obvious that it might get missed. A pastor prays for his church because God answers prayer. Prayer far outstrips our puny efforts. So an elder doesn't just pray for the sake of his own character development. He prays for results that God is pleased to give according to our needs.

The pastors/elders at Grace recently went through training in how to pray for our congregation. Please know that they are committed to this task. They would covet your prayers for them in turn.

 

]]>
Duties of a Pastor, Part 5 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-5 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-5#comments Mon, 24 May 2021 09:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-5  

Pastors Lead

 

Maybe this seems like one of the most obvious duties of a pastor in the modern church. For the last several decades, the ability to lead has been bandied about as the quintessential and defining mark of a good, effective pastor. I don’t totally buy all of that thinking, but it has some merit.

 

When you think about the imagery of a shepherd, what does the shepherd do for the sheep? He leads them. He gets them where they are going. He keeps them together. He uses his wisdom to take them to appropriate pastures, and away from dangers, and to come to still waters.

 

When Jesus describes his role as the good shepherd, he says that “the sheep hear his voice, and he calls them by name and leads them out. When he has brought them out, all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him.” So, the idea of leading and shepherding fits the metaphor of shepherding sheep. You will see this reference both in the Old and New Testament.

 

But does the New Testament spell out clearly that pastors and elders are to lead the church? The answer is yes. Paul writes to Titus, “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (1 Tim. 5:17 ESV)

 

The writer of Hebrews says this, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. “(Heb. 13:17 ESV)

 

This leadership must remain benevolent, and it’s shared among a plurality of more than one elder. But the church needs good, biblical leadership. We need people who have a clear-headed understanding of scripture and a biblically-developed understanding of the church so that the church can stay faithful to its calling. Shepherds lead.

 

 

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Pastors Lead

 

Maybe this seems like one of the most obvious duties of a pastor in the modern church. For the last several decades, the ability to lead has been bandied about as the quintessential and defining mark of a good, effective pastor. I don’t totally buy all of that thinking, but it has some merit.

 

When you think about the imagery of a shepherd, what does the shepherd do for the sheep? He leads them. He gets them where they are going. He keeps them together. He uses his wisdom to take them to appropriate pastures, and away from dangers, and to come to still waters.

 

When Jesus describes his role as the good shepherd, he says that “the sheep hear his voice, and he calls them by name and leads them out. When he has brought them out, all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him.” So, the idea of leading and shepherding fits the metaphor of shepherding sheep. You will see this reference both in the Old and New Testament.

 

But does the New Testament spell out clearly that pastors and elders are to lead the church? The answer is yes. Paul writes to Titus, “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (1 Tim. 5:17 ESV)

 

The writer of Hebrews says this, “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. “(Heb. 13:17 ESV)

 

This leadership must remain benevolent, and it’s shared among a plurality of more than one elder. But the church needs good, biblical leadership. We need people who have a clear-headed understanding of scripture and a biblically-developed understanding of the church so that the church can stay faithful to its calling. Shepherds lead.

 

 

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Mentoring, Wax On; Wax Off! https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/mentoring https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/mentoring#comments Tue, 20 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/mentoring Mentoring

Wax on; Wax off!

 

In the original movie, Karate Kid, there is the now legendary line, “wax on; wax off!” Do you remember? You’ve probably heard it, even if you never saw the movie. That instruction is now part of our collective consciousness. But do you remember the point that was being made?

 

The young, would-be karate kid wanted the teacher, Mr. Miyagi, to train him in Karate. Instead, he had the boy wax his car, sand his floor, and paint his fence. At first, it looked like a devious case of child labor abuse. But in the end, we learn that all of the free labor was a kind of training. Not only was the boy proving his determination, but he was developing muscle memory that later dovetailed with martial arts training.

 

Mentoring is a bit like that. No, you as a mentor are not Mr. Miyagi, so don’t think of your mentee as an untapped supply of free labor. Nor do you have to be an inscrutably wise, larger-than-life, exalted master. What I mean is that mentoring can look random, haphazard, and inefficient. Instead of some great call to ministry, it might look like a wasted effort.

 

Before you think of mentoring as though you are Mr. Miyagi, consider the analogy of you as the karate kid. 

Mentoring is a lot about showing up, repetition, and a good investment of many moments stretched together over an extended period of time.

 

A mentor keeps showing up even when hanging out with a young person, and spending time doesn’t seem to have an obvious pay-off. In the movie, the kid thought he was getting nothing done. He thought he was accomplishing nothing toward his goal.

 

Don’t think of mentoring as too small. As a follower of Christ, you might think of mentoring as too small a thing. We tend to be like Peter, who thought he was quite ready to walk on water and even die for Christ. That didn’t go the way he expected. We may find ourselves ambitious to accomplish great things for Christ, like being the next Billy Graham or Hudson Taylor. Taking the time to invest in one life every week for at least a year may feel as frustrating as spending a summer painting fences, waxing cars, and sanding floors.

 

But ask yourself, aside from my immediate family, how many people do I truly influence? If you want to have a meaningful, powerful spiritual impact in the life of another, you have to invest yourself. You have to keep showing up. Wax on; wax off!

 

After Peter failed magnificently, Jesus asked him, “Do you love me, Peter?” Peter affirmed his love, but it was hard for even Peter to believe it. And Jesus’ responded, “Feed my lambs.” Jesus takes Peter from notions of greatness to something “small” in the eyes of the world. He turned his attention to humble service to the small and weak things.

 

Don’t think of mentoring as too big.  The opposite issue might be that mentoring seems completely overwhelming to you. What would I do for 1-2 hours a week hanging out with a strange kid? What if they think I’m boring?  

 

Young people who seek mentors need a caring adult who is stable, positive, and committed. As a mentor, you come alongside them, and you keep showing up. Gradually, like waxing a car or painting a fence, that persistence will start to become evident. You don’t have to be as cool as Iron Man or as equipped as Mr. Rogers. You don’t have to be wise and clever like Mr. Miyagi. You get to be you. You simply invest you and your time and some of your resources into one young life. On one level, that is all it is.

 

There is so much more I could write about mentoring, but I conclude by urging you to consider becoming a mentor. Don’t think it too small. God uses small and seemingly insignificant things. God values our faithfulness above our boasts.

 

And don’t think it too big. If you know Christ as savior, and if you know yourself to be a repentant, forgiven sinner, then chances are you can be a fantastic mentor. You have to commit. You have to see it through. But God made us and equipped us for such things. And the need is immense. Let God move you into such a place of influence. Imagine the impact in the life of one of these little ones.

 

 

 

 

]]>
Mentoring

Wax on; Wax off!

 

In the original movie, Karate Kid, there is the now legendary line, “wax on; wax off!” Do you remember? You’ve probably heard it, even if you never saw the movie. That instruction is now part of our collective consciousness. But do you remember the point that was being made?

 

The young, would-be karate kid wanted the teacher, Mr. Miyagi, to train him in Karate. Instead, he had the boy wax his car, sand his floor, and paint his fence. At first, it looked like a devious case of child labor abuse. But in the end, we learn that all of the free labor was a kind of training. Not only was the boy proving his determination, but he was developing muscle memory that later dovetailed with martial arts training.

 

Mentoring is a bit like that. No, you as a mentor are not Mr. Miyagi, so don’t think of your mentee as an untapped supply of free labor. Nor do you have to be an inscrutably wise, larger-than-life, exalted master. What I mean is that mentoring can look random, haphazard, and inefficient. Instead of some great call to ministry, it might look like a wasted effort.

 

Before you think of mentoring as though you are Mr. Miyagi, consider the analogy of you as the karate kid. 

Mentoring is a lot about showing up, repetition, and a good investment of many moments stretched together over an extended period of time.

 

A mentor keeps showing up even when hanging out with a young person, and spending time doesn’t seem to have an obvious pay-off. In the movie, the kid thought he was getting nothing done. He thought he was accomplishing nothing toward his goal.

 

Don’t think of mentoring as too small. As a follower of Christ, you might think of mentoring as too small a thing. We tend to be like Peter, who thought he was quite ready to walk on water and even die for Christ. That didn’t go the way he expected. We may find ourselves ambitious to accomplish great things for Christ, like being the next Billy Graham or Hudson Taylor. Taking the time to invest in one life every week for at least a year may feel as frustrating as spending a summer painting fences, waxing cars, and sanding floors.

 

But ask yourself, aside from my immediate family, how many people do I truly influence? If you want to have a meaningful, powerful spiritual impact in the life of another, you have to invest yourself. You have to keep showing up. Wax on; wax off!

 

After Peter failed magnificently, Jesus asked him, “Do you love me, Peter?” Peter affirmed his love, but it was hard for even Peter to believe it. And Jesus’ responded, “Feed my lambs.” Jesus takes Peter from notions of greatness to something “small” in the eyes of the world. He turned his attention to humble service to the small and weak things.

 

Don’t think of mentoring as too big.  The opposite issue might be that mentoring seems completely overwhelming to you. What would I do for 1-2 hours a week hanging out with a strange kid? What if they think I’m boring?  

 

Young people who seek mentors need a caring adult who is stable, positive, and committed. As a mentor, you come alongside them, and you keep showing up. Gradually, like waxing a car or painting a fence, that persistence will start to become evident. You don’t have to be as cool as Iron Man or as equipped as Mr. Rogers. You don’t have to be wise and clever like Mr. Miyagi. You get to be you. You simply invest you and your time and some of your resources into one young life. On one level, that is all it is.

 

There is so much more I could write about mentoring, but I conclude by urging you to consider becoming a mentor. Don’t think it too small. God uses small and seemingly insignificant things. God values our faithfulness above our boasts.

 

And don’t think it too big. If you know Christ as savior, and if you know yourself to be a repentant, forgiven sinner, then chances are you can be a fantastic mentor. You have to commit. You have to see it through. But God made us and equipped us for such things. And the need is immense. Let God move you into such a place of influence. Imagine the impact in the life of one of these little ones.

 

 

 

 

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Duties of a Pastor, Part 3 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-3 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-3#comments Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-3 "He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep." (Jn. 21:17 ESV)

When we think of a literal shepherd, one of the critical duties that comes to mind is feeding the flock. From the 23rd Psalm, we picture how the shepherd makes the sheep to lie down in green pastures. The sheep, we are told, do not want because the shepherd has put them in front of the food.

But we don't have to arrive at this idea simply by the analogy of the shepherd. Several places in the New Testament express this truth in plain, declarative language.

In the book of Ephesians, Paul refers to pastors as pastors and teachers. "Pastors/teachers" is a compound of two in one, not two separate offices. Pastors teach and preach the word of God.

Consider how Paul describes the role of elder to Timothy. "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching." (1 Tim. 5:17 ESV)

Jesus quoted Deuteronomy when being tempted by the devil. 'But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" (Matt. 4:4 ESV) Our spiritual nourishment is the word of God.

The way shepherds feed their flock is by leading them to the word of God by which they are to live. Therefore a pastor will preach the word of God in season and out of season, whether men have turned away or not. He will preach the word when it is popular and when it is despised. This is his duty. He cannot force the sheep to eat, but he can lead them to life-giving words from the scripture.

A pastor's duty is to lead the flock to the scriptures, not his personal opinions or to human words that tickle their ears. He will present it as attractively as he can but will not rob it of its power.

 

 

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"He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep." (Jn. 21:17 ESV)

When we think of a literal shepherd, one of the critical duties that comes to mind is feeding the flock. From the 23rd Psalm, we picture how the shepherd makes the sheep to lie down in green pastures. The sheep, we are told, do not want because the shepherd has put them in front of the food.

But we don't have to arrive at this idea simply by the analogy of the shepherd. Several places in the New Testament express this truth in plain, declarative language.

In the book of Ephesians, Paul refers to pastors as pastors and teachers. "Pastors/teachers" is a compound of two in one, not two separate offices. Pastors teach and preach the word of God.

Consider how Paul describes the role of elder to Timothy. "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching." (1 Tim. 5:17 ESV)

Jesus quoted Deuteronomy when being tempted by the devil. 'But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" (Matt. 4:4 ESV) Our spiritual nourishment is the word of God.

The way shepherds feed their flock is by leading them to the word of God by which they are to live. Therefore a pastor will preach the word of God in season and out of season, whether men have turned away or not. He will preach the word when it is popular and when it is despised. This is his duty. He cannot force the sheep to eat, but he can lead them to life-giving words from the scripture.

A pastor's duty is to lead the flock to the scriptures, not his personal opinions or to human words that tickle their ears. He will present it as attractively as he can but will not rob it of its power.

 

 

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Duties of a Pastor, Part 2 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-2 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-2#comments Wed, 31 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-part-2 "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you." (Heb. 13:17 ESV)

Of all the duties required of a pastor, the care of souls is most central. In a sense, "keeping watch" over souls is more a descriptive summary of all the duties of an elder. We could go so far as saying that a pastor shepherds souls. Any other duty is an aspect of that.

The writer of Hebrews tells us that leaders in the church (otherwise defined as pastor/elders) will have to give an account for how they have watched over the souls of the flock.

To the Ephesian elders, Paul says the following. "Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his blood." (Acts 20:28 ESV)

The seriousness of the pastoral charge is intense. Pastors/elders are caring for the blood-ransomed, Christ-bought flock of God. Any negligence or mistreatment will be called to account. Who of us is sufficient for that kind of responsibility.

An elder/pastor is at best a redeemed, forgiven sinner doing the best he knows how to do. He is constrained by the word of God. He is answerable to God. He is dependent on the grace of Christ. He relies on the power of the Holy Spirit. Even so, being human, he can fail. He can make mistakes.

What he must not do is lose sight of his chief responsibility. He shepherds the flock of God, and he watches like a soldier set on a wall to warn of any harm he foresees.

I'll close with Paul's words concerning his apostolic ministry. There are parallels to the shepherding role of the pastor. "Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me." (Col. 1:28 ESV)

What better summary can there be? The duty of the pastor is to work for that goal, that he may present everyone mature in Christ.

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"Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you." (Heb. 13:17 ESV)

Of all the duties required of a pastor, the care of souls is most central. In a sense, "keeping watch" over souls is more a descriptive summary of all the duties of an elder. We could go so far as saying that a pastor shepherds souls. Any other duty is an aspect of that.

The writer of Hebrews tells us that leaders in the church (otherwise defined as pastor/elders) will have to give an account for how they have watched over the souls of the flock.

To the Ephesian elders, Paul says the following. "Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his blood." (Acts 20:28 ESV)

The seriousness of the pastoral charge is intense. Pastors/elders are caring for the blood-ransomed, Christ-bought flock of God. Any negligence or mistreatment will be called to account. Who of us is sufficient for that kind of responsibility.

An elder/pastor is at best a redeemed, forgiven sinner doing the best he knows how to do. He is constrained by the word of God. He is answerable to God. He is dependent on the grace of Christ. He relies on the power of the Holy Spirit. Even so, being human, he can fail. He can make mistakes.

What he must not do is lose sight of his chief responsibility. He shepherds the flock of God, and he watches like a soldier set on a wall to warn of any harm he foresees.

I'll close with Paul's words concerning his apostolic ministry. There are parallels to the shepherding role of the pastor. "Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me." (Col. 1:28 ESV)

What better summary can there be? The duty of the pastor is to work for that goal, that he may present everyone mature in Christ.

]]>
Duties of a Pastor Pt.1 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-pt1 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-pt1#comments Wed, 24 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0500 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/duties-of-a-pastor-pt1 What Pastors Do

Week #1 – A Clarification

 

My family chat topic, along with my blog post for the next few weeks, will concern the role of a pastor. What does a pastor do? What should he do? Opinions are like hands. Most of us have a couple, but that doesn't make them all right.

 

I'm going to go at this from my self-understanding, which is based on scripture and a career of experience. I'll try to arrange it in some hierarchy of importance, though there's room for debate on that.

 

Before we jump into the duties of a pastor, I want to begin with a clarification. It's one we try to get across often, but I find people are slow to pick up on it.

 

As a pastor, I am an elder in the church. That is simply the biblical teaching. There really is no room for debate. Elders pastor. Pastors shepherd. Both terms are interchangeable with the word "overseer."

 

There is a biblical distinction between elders who make their living by this work and those who do it on a volunteer basis. So, Paul writes to the Corinthians, "In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel." (1 Cor. 9:14 ESV) To the Galatians, he writes, "Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches." (Gal. 6:6 ESV) And to Timothy, he writes,  "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain," and, "The laborer deserves his wages." (1 Tim. 5:17 ESV)

 

I did not quote all that to make an argument about salaries. The point is, a pastor is an elder and vice versa, though some are engaged full-time for a wage, and others are doing it alongside other employment.

 

My role as a lead pastor is biblically the same as the other elders in our church, but I am a leader among peers. My duties are essentially the same, but I labor more intensely in the teaching and preaching areas. We will look more at that role in the following weeks.

 

In conclusion, the other men we call elders at Grace could just as easily be referred to as pastors. And it would not be wrong to call me an elder.  We tend to use the terms as a shorthand to distinguish seminary-trained, paid staff from unpaid volunteer elders. That's not a problem unless we import unbiblical ideas into it.

 

Next time we will look at the role of soul care.

]]>
What Pastors Do

Week #1 – A Clarification

 

My family chat topic, along with my blog post for the next few weeks, will concern the role of a pastor. What does a pastor do? What should he do? Opinions are like hands. Most of us have a couple, but that doesn't make them all right.

 

I'm going to go at this from my self-understanding, which is based on scripture and a career of experience. I'll try to arrange it in some hierarchy of importance, though there's room for debate on that.

 

Before we jump into the duties of a pastor, I want to begin with a clarification. It's one we try to get across often, but I find people are slow to pick up on it.

 

As a pastor, I am an elder in the church. That is simply the biblical teaching. There really is no room for debate. Elders pastor. Pastors shepherd. Both terms are interchangeable with the word "overseer."

 

There is a biblical distinction between elders who make their living by this work and those who do it on a volunteer basis. So, Paul writes to the Corinthians, "In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel." (1 Cor. 9:14 ESV) To the Galatians, he writes, "Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches." (Gal. 6:6 ESV) And to Timothy, he writes,  "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain," and, "The laborer deserves his wages." (1 Tim. 5:17 ESV)

 

I did not quote all that to make an argument about salaries. The point is, a pastor is an elder and vice versa, though some are engaged full-time for a wage, and others are doing it alongside other employment.

 

My role as a lead pastor is biblically the same as the other elders in our church, but I am a leader among peers. My duties are essentially the same, but I labor more intensely in the teaching and preaching areas. We will look more at that role in the following weeks.

 

In conclusion, the other men we call elders at Grace could just as easily be referred to as pastors. And it would not be wrong to call me an elder.  We tend to use the terms as a shorthand to distinguish seminary-trained, paid staff from unpaid volunteer elders. That's not a problem unless we import unbiblical ideas into it.

 

Next time we will look at the role of soul care.

]]>
Mask Mandate https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/mask-mandate https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/mask-mandate#comments Wed, 25 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0600 https://www.gracegreatbend.org/blog/post/mask-mandate Dear Church Family,

As you probably know, Barton County has issued a mask mandate for indoor public spaces.

There are exempt groups, which according to the Tribune include the following: “…children under 5 years of age, people who can’t wear a mask because of a physical or mental condition, people for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk related to their work, persons seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service (while they are eating or drinking), and athletes engaged in a sports activity.”

As always masks are available at the tables in our Welcome Center.

We would ask that everyone comply with the county requirements unless you fit one of the listed exemptions.

Given the number of cases of COVID county wide, we are happy that we are still able to meet together.

We’d recommend that if you have any additional health risk factors that you use good judgment about whether to attend our services in person.

As always, the live stream is available.

We love you all and pray for an end to this very soon.

Blessings,

Pastor Jay

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Dear Church Family,

As you probably know, Barton County has issued a mask mandate for indoor public spaces.

There are exempt groups, which according to the Tribune include the following: “…children under 5 years of age, people who can’t wear a mask because of a physical or mental condition, people for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk related to their work, persons seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service (while they are eating or drinking), and athletes engaged in a sports activity.”

As always masks are available at the tables in our Welcome Center.

We would ask that everyone comply with the county requirements unless you fit one of the listed exemptions.

Given the number of cases of COVID county wide, we are happy that we are still able to meet together.

We’d recommend that if you have any additional health risk factors that you use good judgment about whether to attend our services in person.

As always, the live stream is available.

We love you all and pray for an end to this very soon.

Blessings,

Pastor Jay

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