Church members should have high expectations of those who serve as leaders in their church. The Bible, particularly in 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus, contains clear standards concerning the roles and responsibilities of those who serve in pastoral ministry. In addition, 1 Peter 5 also speaks of the nature, identity, and work of a pastor; “shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory” (vv. 2-4). In my opinion, there is perhaps not a greater need in the modern evangelical church than faithful pastoral ministry.
A couple of Sunday nights ago, we examined Apollos and applied the characteristics which are evident in his life in Acts 18:24-28 to those serving in Gospel ministry. I challenged our body to expect the following characteristics from pastors at First Baptist Church. Several of you requested the outline which we used to discuss Apollos, so in light of that request and with a desire for faithful pastoral ministry at First Baptist Church Paducah, here are four characteristics which should be evident among those who are Ministers of the Gospel.
- A Gospel Minister Should Be Biblically Knowledgeable.
Apollos was “an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures” (Acts 18:24). He was knowledgeable and competent—even powerful and strong in his understanding of the Scriptures. In his writings Luke could have mentioned any characteristic about Apollos—his personality, his socio-economic status, his hobbies, or others. However, Luke mentioned his grasp of the Scriptures.
As it was in Hosea’s day, some might say that one of the greatest needs in the church today is the knowledge of God (Hosea 4:6). After lamenting the condition of his people, Hosea then challenged them, “Let us know; let us press on to know the LORD” (6:3).
God has gifted each of us in unique ways. Each of us goes about our calling in different ways. However, regardless of the means by which pastoral leaders approach their work, it is essential that ministers of the Gospel realize that their primary responsibility is to be ministers of the truth. As Gospel ministers, it is our privilege and responsibility to proclaim the truth and lead others toward a life which is lived in accordance with that truth.
- A Gospel Minister Should Be Obviously Passionate.
Apollos is described as being “fervent in spirit” (Acts 18:25). Not only did he have knowledge in his head, he also had passion in his heart. He knew God, and he also loved God. He had both knowledge and passion.
Passion and knowledge are not meant to be mutually exclusive. On the contrary. As Christians, we are commanded to love God with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind. Paul wanted his people to be both passionate and knowledgeable (Romans 10:2). Peter drove home the importance of both understanding and passion when he says, “Grow in the grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
- A Gospel Minister Should Be Humbly Teachable.
Obviously, Apollos did not have the full story of God’s Good News. He “knew only the baptism of John,” and upon hearing his message, Priscilla and
Aquila “took him and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:25-26). Reading the rest of the story reveals that Apollos was willing to be taught. Apollos was commended by the brothers as he went to Achaia, so obviously they thought him worthy of their recommendation.
None of us should ever think we have come to a place where we know it all and that there is nothing more to learn. All of us should be continually growing in our relationship with God, and Gospel ministers should do no less.
- A Gospel Minister Should Be Helpfully Convictional.
Upon arriving in Achaia, we are told that Apollos “greatly helped” the believers, for “he powerfully refuted” others. No doubt, Apollos’ teaching was Scriptural and helpful. However, Luke tells us that Apollos was helpful as he refuted others. There was necessary correction taking place in Apollos’ teaching, but his correction was helpful.
In describing Timothy’s work, Paul said that “the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil,” and then he says “correcting his opponents with gentleness” (2 Timothy 2:24-25).
Conviction is necessary in Gospel ministry, but ministers must be helpful in their convictions. They should be bold and gentle—accurate and humble—convictional and helpful.
Thank you for the privilege of serving you as ministers of the Gospel. What a privilege and responsibility! Please pray for us that we might be ever more biblically knowledgeable, obviously passionate, humbly teachable, and helpfully convictional. To this end we strive—for the good of First Baptist Church and beyond, and for the glory of our great God.
Revelation 22:21,
Todd Brady
Pastor
