Supporting Our Pastors: Love, Honor, and Prayer
Summary
In my sermon today, I began by expressing the joy of the Lord present in our gathering and welcomed everyone to our comeback Sunday service. I introduced myself as Pastor Seth, the youth pastor, filling in for our main pastors who were on a well-deserved vacation. I highlighted the importance of fellowship and staying after the service for the community and the children's enjoyment.
I then transitioned into discussing the series we started before Easter, based on Elder Gary Farmer's book "The Aaron and Her Ministry, What Sheep Can Do for Their Shepherd," which focuses on the concept of submission to pastoral authority. I explained that submission is about willingly placing oneself under someone's protection or authority, and how this aligns with the biblical story of Aaron and Her supporting Moses during battle, leading to victory for the Israelites. I emphasized that by submitting to our pastors, we too can experience victory in our church.
I reminded the congregation of our commitment to pray for our pastors for an entire year, as previously taught by Pastor David. I reiterated the specific areas of prayer for our pastors, including their experience of God's love, their prayer lives, honor, encouragement, support for their families, and protection and blessings.
I then delved into practical ways we can support and uplift our pastors, starting with love. I referenced 1 Peter 4:8, which speaks to love covering a multitude of sins, and John 3:16, which exemplifies God's love through giving. I challenged the congregation to consider whether we are generous to our pastors and to reflect on the type of love we offer them, drawing from 1 Corinthians 13's description of love.
I also spoke about the importance of prayer, as a means of supporting our pastors. I cited 1 Timothy 2:1-2, which urges us to pray for those in authority, and shared personal examples of how prayer can impact a pastor's life and family.
Next, I addressed the need to honor and submit to our pastors, referencing Hebrews 13:17. I discussed the cultural tendency to believe respect must be earned, but in the context of the church, we are called to honor those God has placed in authority over us. I explained that honoring our pastors aligns us with God's order and brings benefits to our own lives.
Lastly, I spoke about the act of blessing our pastors, using the Greek word "Makarios," which signifies a state of joy or bliss beyond circumstance. I encouraged the congregation to consider what we sow into our pastors' lives, as Galatians 6:7-8 teaches us that we reap what we sow. I suggested simple acts of kindness, like finding out a pastor's favorite snack or sending an encouraging word, as ways to bless them.
I concluded the sermon with a prayer, lifting up Pastor David and all our pastors, asking for God's guidance and blessings upon them and the entire congregation.
Key Takeaways:
1. Submission to pastoral authority is not about blind obedience but about actively supporting and upholding our leaders, much like Aaron and Her did for Moses, leading to victory for the community. This mindset fosters a culture of victory within the church. ([23:08])
2. Committing to pray for our pastors is a powerful way to support them spiritually. It's not just about asking for blessings but also about seeking God's guidance for their lives, their families, and their ministries, which in turn enriches the entire church body. ([25:46])
3. Love is the foundation of our relationship with our pastors. It requires giving of ourselves, our time, and our resources. By loving our pastors earnestly, we cover a multitude of sins and create an environment where they can minister effectively to us. ([28:19])
4. Honoring our pastors is a biblical mandate that brings joy to their hearts and benefits to our own lives. It's about recognizing the authority God has placed them in and respecting it, which in turn aligns us with God's order and blessings. ([45:53])
5. Blessing our pastors can be as simple as offering a kind word or a small gift. These acts of kindness can have a profound impact on their well-being and ministry, reflecting the principle that we reap what we sow in the spirit. ([50:38])
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 1 Peter 4:8 - "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins."
2. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 - "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way."
3. Hebrews 13:17 - "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."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Peter 4:8, what is the significance of love in our relationships with one another?
2. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, what types of prayers are we encouraged to offer for those in authority?
3. What does Hebrews 13:17 say about the relationship between church members and their leaders? How should this relationship be characterized? [45:53]
4. What practical examples did Pastor Seth give for showing love to our pastors? [28:19]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of love covering a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8) apply to our interactions with church leaders, especially when they make mistakes? [28:19]
2. Why is it important to pray for our pastors' families and their personal lives, as mentioned in 1 Timothy 2:1-2? How might this impact their ministry? [39:15]
3. Hebrews 13:17 emphasizes the importance of obeying and submitting to church leaders. How does this align with the cultural tendency to believe that respect must be earned? [45:53]
4. Pastor Seth mentioned the Greek word "Makarios" in relation to blessing our pastors. What does this term mean, and how can we practically bless our pastors in this way? [50:38]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own relationship with your pastor. How can you show love to them in a way that covers a multitude of sins, as described in 1 Peter 4:8? [28:19]
2. Pastor Seth challenged the congregation to pray for their pastors for a whole year. What specific areas can you commit to praying for your pastor, and how will you incorporate this into your daily routine? [25:46]
3. Think about a time when you may have held a grudge or felt offended by something a pastor did. How can you apply the principle of love from 1 Corinthians 13 to move past that offense and support your pastor? [36:06]
4. Pastor Seth mentioned the importance of honoring our pastors as a biblical mandate. What are some practical ways you can show honor and respect to your pastor this week? [45:53]
5. Consider the idea of blessing your pastor with small acts of kindness. What is one specific act of kindness you can do for your pastor this week to show your appreciation and support? [50:38]
6. How can you ensure that your prayers for your pastor are not just routine but heartfelt and impactful? What steps can you take to deepen your prayer life in this area? [37:49]
7. Pastor Seth talked about the importance of not just being hearers of the word but doers as well. What is one practical step you can take this week to actively support and uplift your pastor, beyond just attending church services? [27:09]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Spiritual Authority
Submission to spiritual authority is an act of faith and trust, recognizing that God has appointed leaders within the church to guide and protect the congregation. It is not about blind obedience but about willingly placing oneself under the leadership of those who have been called to shepherd the flock. This act of submission is akin to the support Aaron and Her provided to Moses, which was crucial for the Israelites' victory. When members of a church submit to their pastors, they contribute to a culture of victory and spiritual growth within the community. This submission is an acknowledgment of the divine order established by God and a commitment to uphold and support the leaders He has chosen.
"Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." - Hebrews 13:7 (ESV)
Reflection: How can you actively support your church leaders this week in a way that demonstrates your commitment to God's order?
Day 2: The Power of Prayer for Leadership
Prayer is a foundational element of Christian life, and it holds immense power, especially when directed towards those in spiritual leadership. Praying for pastors is not merely a duty but a privilege that allows the congregation to intercede on behalf of their spiritual leaders. By praying for pastors, believers seek God's guidance, wisdom, and protection over their lives and ministries. This spiritual support is crucial for pastors as they navigate the challenges of leadership and is a tangible expression of the church's commitment to their well-being. As the church prays, it becomes a source of strength and encouragement for pastors, which in turn enriches the entire body of Christ.
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
Reflection: What specific area of your pastor's life or ministry can you commit to pray for this week?
Day 3: Love as the Foundation of Ministry
Love is the cornerstone of the Christian faith and the foundation upon which relationships within the church, including those with pastors, are built. This love is selfless, sacrificial, and mirrors the love that Christ has for His church. It is not merely an emotion but an action that involves giving time, resources, and support. When the congregation loves their pastors earnestly, it creates an environment conducive to effective ministry and mutual edification. This love is patient, kind, and does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth.
"Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins." - 1 Peter 4:8 (ESV)
Reflection: In what practical ways can you demonstrate love to your pastors this week?
Day 4: Honoring Leadership as God's Design
Honoring pastors is a biblical mandate that reflects the recognition of God's authority and design for church leadership. It is not contingent upon the leaders earning respect but is a response to the position God has given them. By honoring pastors, believers align themselves with God's order, which brings blessings and joy to both the leaders and the congregation. This honor is expressed through respect, support, and a willingness to follow their godly counsel. As the church honors its leaders, it fosters a healthy and thriving spiritual community that is pleasing to God.
"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." - Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)
Reflection: How can you show honor to your pastors in a way that reflects your respect for God's authority?
Day 5: Sowing Blessings into Leadership
Blessing pastors is an expression of gratitude and recognition for their dedication and service to the church. It is about sowing seeds of kindness and support that will bear fruit in their lives and ministries. The principle of sowing and reaping applies to how the congregation treats its leaders; acts of kindness, encouragement, and generosity can have a profound impact on pastors, contributing to their joy and effectiveness in ministry. Simple gestures of appreciation can go a long way in affirming pastors and reminding them of the love and support of their church family.
"Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap." - Galatians 6:7 (ESV)
Reflection: What specific act of kindness can you offer to your pastors this week to sow into their ministry?
Quotes
1. "And the idea, obviously, if you guys don't know the story of Aaron and Her, it's about Moses. There's a battle going on. And whenever he would lift his hands, his side would win. The Israelites would win. But whenever his arms dropped, they would start to lose. So Aaron and Her, who were on his side, set him on a rock and lifted up his hands so they could have the victory." [23:08]
2. "Prayer is a powerful thing. So if I commit to praying for one of my pastors for a whole year, I can't wait to see the fruit that comes from that and how, you know, our pastors, like if our pastors are blessed and they're prayed up, then man, they can make such an impact inside of our lives." [25:46]
3. "Love is so important because, you know, if we don't love our pastor, there can be things that come into our hearts that aren't love for him. Like offense, we can grow offense for our pastor. And if we have offense for our pastor, then how are we able to have them minister to us?" [28:19]
4. "Honor is to show high esteem or regard to respect greatly. And in Hebrews chapter 13, verse 17, it says, obey your leaders and submit to them for they are keeping watch over your souls... Let them do this with joy and not groaning for that would be of no advantage to you." [44:21]
5. "What am I sowing into? Am I sowing into my pastors? Because if I do that, it says reap what you sow. But if I just sow me, me, me, I just get more me... But if I'm sowing in the spirit and praying over my pastors and blessing my pastors and speaking honor of my pastors and loving my pastors, that's what I'm going to reap." [50:38]
6. "I want to walk alongside my pastor and try to lift up my pastor and try to, you know, when there are leeches around, I hope I can be, you know, lift him up enough to where it doesn't drag him down. So we want to be able to help, help our pastors in that way." [30:49]
7. "I want my pastor to be wise. I want there to be wisdom and, like, flowing through them so that they can lead us properly, so they can catch that vision. Pray for vision, right? I want my pastor to have a clear vision. I want our leaders to have clear vision on what the gospel is." [39:15]
8. "It's really hard to hate somebody that you're praying for. It's really hard not to think about somebody that you're praying for. Makes you increase that love for your pastor, that concern of, like, hey, what's my pastor going through? What's my leadership going through?" [41:39]
9. "If I'm taking on my leader's burdens, if I'm trying to take on my pastor's burdens to help them with that, I'm fulfilling the law of Christ. What more do you want, right? I mean, what more do I want to be doing than to do those things?" [42:59]
10. "I have to honor and respect my pastor. I have to honor and respect Pastor David, always. And that's how we have to have the mindset of like, hey, God's placed this person here. God's placed them here. And obviously, I mean, you know, I'm not talking, you know, someone's talking heresy. I'm not saying, you know, boom, be like, yeah, go preach heresy. I'm not saying that, obviously." [45:53]
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