SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES
(Jeremiah 3:15) "Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding."
(Hebrews 13:17) “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”
(Proverbs 14:4) “Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.”
(Proverbs 15:17) “Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.”
(1 Timothy 5:18) “For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, the labourer is worthy of his reward.”
PROLOGUE
This message is directed to our pastors, who embody the qualities and spirit of a true shepherd. Jeremiah 3:15 is a powerful promise from God to His people. The verse states, "Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding."
This passage of Scripture emphasizes God’s deep desire to appoint spiritual leaders who not only align with His divine will but also possess the profound wisdom required to shepherd His flock.
These leaders are called to have a genuine shepherd's heart, demonstrating compassion, understanding, and dedication to the well-being of the people entrusted to their care.
Their role is vital in guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys, fostering a community rooted in faith, love, and mutual support, which ultimately leads to a deeper relationship with God.
As I begin this message, I remember a sermon I delivered from my 18-wheeler's cab, titled “The Strength of the Ox.” I referenced Proverbs 14:4 and Proverbs 15:17, which depict the ox as an essential source of strength and labor, responsible for pulling the plow that prepares the land for planting seeds.
In contrast, the image of an ox or pastor that cannot fulfill its purpose, such as an over-controlling deacon board, raises important questions about growth and strength in the spiritual lives of their congregation.
The image of a pastor diligently plowing the fields evokes a profound message found in Hosea 10:12. This verse emphasizes the importance of breaking up our fallow ground, which symbolizes our need for spiritual renewal and growth.
Just as a farmer prepares the soil to receive new seeds, we must also tend to our hearts and minds, removing the weeds of complacency and past hurts to welcome fresh opportunities for growth and faith. The call to “seek the Lord” signals not only a desire for spiritual growth but also an urgent plea to build a relationship with God.
It reminds us that this pursuit is vital because only through God’s divine intervention can we uncover the hidden struggles within our hearts and receive His blessings, much like the refreshing rain that brings life and renewal to the earth.
This message takes me back to the early days when pastors delivered powerful and heartfelt sermons. Their passionate preaching and dedication to nurturing and growing the spiritual lives of their congregations demonstrate their value and importance in our lives, much like plowing a field.
In summary, as we explore this message further, we think of a person plowing a field who must be careful of animal droppings. Likewise, the signs of a pastor’s effort are visible in the costly hairstyles and hairpins around, often seen in the congregation, as well as tear-stained altars. These signs show a pastor's dedication to breaking through their flock’s hardened hearts, preparing the ground for new growth and spiritual renewal.
“HONORING & CELEBRATING THE SHEPHERD'S SACRIFICE."
Today, we stand on the edge of a profound and meaningful understanding—one that can transform our lives and deepen our faith. Together, we are united by our love for Christ and our sincere desire to explore His Word, seeking not just knowledge but a genuine connection with Him.
This is a sacred time for us to deepen our faith and strengthen our bond with our Heavenly Father, nurturing our spirits and reinforcing our commitment to His mission. To obey and submit to our leaders with a spirit of joy and gratitude. Let's unite to honor and celebrate the deep sacrifice of our pastors. Their steadfast dedication and effort warrant our highest respect and appreciation.
We are gathered to celebrate the unwavering dedication and hard work of our pastors, with special recognition for Bishop Ping Alba of Miracle Life Church International Ministry, a truly anointed man of God who has been entrusted with a divine mission. Walking in the footsteps of the late A.A. Allen and the late Don Stewart, he is motivated to continue fighting the good fight. His steadfast commitment to Miracle Life Church International Ministry is undeniable, and we are deeply grateful for his service.
Hebrews 13:17 highlights the crucial role of our leaders, who act as guides and shepherds committed to caring for and defending their flock. This verse underscores that they are accountable to God for their leadership, including their conduct, choices, attitude, and how they nurture and protect their congregation.
The truth for us to learn and understand is, "Effective leaders must not only give direction but also show compassion and integrity, ensuring they prioritize the well-being of those they serve."
This message before you is a call for believers to recognize the authority of our leaders, respect their positions, and follow their guidance. It's a plea to trust in their wisdom, experience, and dedication to Christ's mission, for this call echoes the very heartbeat of God.
Life frequently brings difficult challenges, and unexpected hardships test our faith. Such moments can make us feel vulnerable and drained, but it's important to see them as tests of our resilience and patience. In these times, the Word of God provides strong encouragement, reminding us that if God is on our side, no one can stand against us.
This message deeply resonates with us, providing hope and strength. Just as Nehemiah confidently replied to those trying to distract him from his God-given mission by saying, “I cannot come down from this wall; I am doing God’s work,” we also need to remain focused on our higher calling.
(Nehemiah 6:3) "And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?" In another scripture, it states that the people had a mind to work.
The Holy scriptures highlight the strong unity among his followers, emphasizing their shared dedication and purpose—they are united in their determination to fulfill their mission. This unity shows the great strength that comes from supporting leaders for the growth of the kingdom.
In short, when we unite as one body, we work together harmoniously and boost our efforts to win souls for the kingdom. This collective spirit is crucial because it provides the strength to overcome obstacles and attain greater success than we could alone. Additionally, it builds resilience, making our ministry more effective.
"FOUR PRINCIPLES NECESSARY FOR HONORING PASTORS."
1. Recognize the heavy responsibility they bear as shepherds of the flock who look after our souls.
2. Acknowledge their outstanding dedication and sacrifice.
3. Recognize our responsibility to support them through our giving and our commitment to keep them uplifted
in prayer.
4. Acknowledge our duty to work together with them in carrying out the great commission, supporting one another as one unified body as we pursue God's divine plan and purpose for our lives.
"THE PASTOR'S ROLE IN THE FIVE-FOLD MINISTRY."
If we think of a pastor's role in the five-fold ministry as a building, they represent the protective walls. Pastors are essential not just for the ministry's functioning but also as its safeguard, maintaining the safety and security of the congregation.
The pastor's main responsibility is to care for the needs, safety, and protection of the sheep entrusted to them by God. They are accountable to God for the spiritual health of their congregation, making sure everyone receives a well-rounded and nourishing diet of God's Word.
Pastors possess a shepherd's heart for their flock, enabling them to exhibit love and patience to nurture their sheep's growth. Remember, no one cares for the sheep entrusted to them better than a pastor.
When examining the pastor's role in the five-fold ministry, it can be helpful to compare it to the human hand, where each finger represents a unique function that supports the church's overall mission.
1. The Apostle is comparable to the thumb. Similar to how the thumb supplies vital strength and stability—allowing the hand to grasp and hold securely—the Apostle provides the foundational strength and authority for the ministry. This role encompasses leadership, forging new directions for the church, and equipping other leaders to achieve their calling.
2. The Prophet is like the index finger. The index finger is mainly used for pointing and guiding, just as the Prophet shares God’s direction and guidance with the church. This role involves discernment and teaching, helping the congregation understand God's will and purpose for their lives.
3. The Evangelist can be likened to the middle finger. As the most extended finger, it reaches the farthest and represents the Evangelist’s role in spreading salvation. The Evangelist strives to share the gospel with those outside the church, acting as a bridge between believers and non-believers.
4. The ring finger symbolizes the pastor, often linked to commitment and vows through the wedding band. It represents the pastor's lifelong devotion to the church community, encompassing nurturing, caring for, and guiding the congregation, as well as fostering strong relationships and offering spiritual leadership.
5. The Teacher reflects the little finger. Although the little finger is the smallest, it is crucial for hand balance and dexterity. Likewise, the Teacher offers important knowledge and insight, supporting church members in strengthening their faith and facing life's difficulties with biblical guidance.
I remember being asked to give a presentation on the teachers' role in the five-fold ministry. I also recall that many leaders attended, and some had been given 30 minutes to share their insights on their role in the five-fold ministry.
I had just five minutes to talk about the teachers' role in the five-fold ministry. I recall stopping to buy latex gloves and a pencil. When it was my turn, I selected a young boy to instruct the glove to pick up the pencil.
I recall asking everyone there to help the boy tell the glove to pick up the pencil, even having them stand on their feet as if the glove couldn't hear them.
I then asked the little boy to put his hand in the glove and pick up the pencil. I concluded my presentation by noting that the glove by itself has no life or strength to lift the pencil, but when the boy places his hand inside, it becomes filled with his life, strength, and wisdom.
I stated that the role of the teacher in the five-fold ministry is to share the wisdom they have acquired through life experiences and extensive study with their students. These students then become filled with that wisdom and knowledge, enabling them to reach out to a hurting world in search of answers, with some even seeking a reason to live.
Together, these roles in the five-fold ministry highlight the diversity and interdependence within the body of Christ, emphasizing that each function and office is essential for the church's health and overall effectiveness.
The pastor must never forget the great responsibility God has given him: caring for and leading His flock. Every member of this congregation is vital, and no one is more qualified to nurture and support them than the shepherd chosen for this specific role. This dedication to the flock helps each member feel valued and important.
Let me conclude by saying that this responsibility goes beyond simple leadership; it includes spiritual guidance, emotional support, and a strong commitment to each person's well-being. Therefore, the pastor's role is not unique but also extremely valuable, as it influences the spiritual paths of those in the church community.
MY CONCLUSION
This inspiring message highlights the essential role pastors and leaders play in promoting evangelism, which is vital for the church's growth and spiritual well-being, as well as its outreach beyond the church's walls. It highlights that a pastor should possess the qualities of a visionary leader—someone who motivates their congregation to engage in outreach beyond the church walls. It emphasizes building relationships that can help others develop a stronger connection with Christ.
A true spiritual leader should motivate us to fully participate in our roles, recognizing that each of us can make a lasting impact on others' lives. By working together, we can share the gospel message with a hurting world seeking answers, with some even searching for a reason to live.
Did you know that the word 'declares' in John 10:4-5 and John 10:27 shows that Jesus is the shepherd and His followers are His sheep who hear His voice and follow Him? A stranger they will not follow. Strictly speaking, a stranger cannot lead them.
Did you know that if a shepherd goes out at night to his sheep, even though they hear his voice, they will not come to him? But if he lights up his face so they can see him, they all come running.
This is why we need pastors who have a heart for God and His people, recognizing that no one is beyond redemption. Without the dedication and involvement of both the pastor and the congregation, the mission of evangelism becomes fragile and distant, because a church can only be as spiritual as its leader.
What’s wrong with calling your pastor to see if he's doing well and if he needs anything? What's wrong with offering to carry his Bible or asking if he needs help with anything at the church? What’s wrong with showing him respect and honoring his role as the shepherd of our souls?
The critical point to understand is that prayer moves Heaven, but it takes money to move Earth. Numbers 18:19 conveys a crucial message about maintaining God's kingdom. We should remember that, while prayer can initiate change and influence spiritual matters in Heaven, financial support is vital for our earthly ministries and community outreach.
(Numbers 18:19) “All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer unto the LORD, have I given to you, and your sons and your daughters with you, by a statute forever: it is a covenant of salt forever before the LORD for you and your descendants with you.”
In this passage, the Heave Offering is described as a sacred covenant of salt, symbolizing both permanence and the preservation of the relationship between God and His people. This offering is not just a historical practice; it represents a lasting commitment to support the spiritual leaders of the church, including pastors and retired ministers who have dedicated their lives to spreading the gospel.
The question is: when did this sacred offering start to be viewed as something temporary or subject to expiration? Moreover, why would we hesitate to engage in this partnership with God to build and strengthen His kingdom? Why are nations of people expected to come and give the Lord what is His during the 1000-year reign of Christ on Earth?
The key idea we need to understand is, "By participating in the Heave Offering, we align ourselves with a divine promise, investing in the spiritual future of our church community and supporting our leaders who guide us on our journey."
1 Timothy 5:18 states, “For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn.’” In this verse, the Apostle Paul, through Timothy, emphasizes the importance of supporting our church leaders and ministers. This support is essential not only for their well-being but also for the health of the entire congregation.
Timothy's reference to Deuteronomy 25:4 highlights a key principle from the Old Testament: just as an ox is allowed to eat while working in the fields, those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service should be cared for by the church and supported to continue their important work. When we support our leaders, we recognize their sacrifices and contributions, allowing them to focus on their mission of serving the congregation and spreading the message of faith.
In conclusion, let me finish by emphasizing the importance of praying for our pastors, asking for discernment to determine if they are truly after God's own heart, and continuing to seek guidance from those who have knowledge and understanding of God's word and His ways. Remember that they watch over our souls and will one day give an account to God regarding their responsibilities.
International Evangelist
Jerry W. Hulse, Ph.D.
Miracle Life Church International
