April 11, 2020
“This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work.”
1 Timothy 3:1
The word “bishop” means an overseer or Elder. It refers to the Pastor of a church. Paul here reminds Timothy that the Pastor’s ministry is WORK. Notice this office is for men only. Twice the masculine form is used so that there is no confusion. Beloved, I can assure you that it is work.
In Seminary we are taught to spend 20 hours in preparation of one 30-minute message. In addition to the hours of study there are the hours spent in prayer for the congregation, the community, the nation and the world. We are also to pray for our leaders both local and national.
There are also the hours spend ministering to the needs of the congregation, such as counseling, giving advice, ministering to spiritual needs, emotional needs, physical needs, and so on.
There is also the oversight of the church, the programs, activities, the finances, the staff, the grounds, the buildings, anything and everything that happens in and around the church.
The pastor also feels the weight of leading the congregation to grow in grace and fulfill the Great Commission. Teaching the church how to be involved in evangelism. The pastor is to lead by example for the church to follow.
Many times, I’ve heard someone say, “The pastor has the easiest job: he only works 3 hours a week.” Beloved, the next time you hear someone say that or you are tempted to say it, please remember this verse of Scripture. The office of a pastor is a position of WORK! But what a joy it is to serve.
Pray for those suffering from Covid-19
Pray for those out of work
Pray for those small businesses that may close
Pray for our nation