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Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. In the denominational world the preacher is viewed as another “class” of Christian. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. In the denominational world the preacher is viewed as another “class” of Christian. He is not just “another member” but rather has special duties and an exalted position. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. In the denominational world the preacher is viewed as another “class” of Christian. He is not just “another member” but rather has special duties. Some have made a “clergy-laity” distinction with special titles and clothing being given this “higher office.” (Mt 23:5-11) Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. Matthew 23:5-11 (NKJV) - But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. 6 They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, 7 greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’ Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. 8 But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. 9 Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10 And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. Many Christians have done the same thing without knowing it. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. They have “hired” a man to help the church grow. (Jn 10:11-14) Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. John 10:11-14 (NKJV) - “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. 12 But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. 13 The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. The preacher often lives in a world and does a work completely foreign to the members. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. The preacher often lives in a world and does a work completely foreign to the members. The preacher is often held accountable to doing the work of an elder, rather than the work of an evangelist. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. When a local church has little or no leadership then this relationship is often filled with problems. Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. When a local church has little or no leadership then this relationship is often filled with problems. How many of you would take a “job” overseen by men who have no clue as to what your work is? Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. How many of you would want your finances determined by such an arrangement? How easy is it to misrepresent and stir up others over money? Much of what is expected of a “preacher” has come from human tradition. Let us go back to the Bible and learn from the Lord about these things! Why are there churches and preachers? What is an evangelist for? (Acts 21:8) Why are there churches and preachers? Acts 21:8 (NKJV) - On the next day we who were Paul’s companions departed and came to Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. Why are there churches and preachers? “The term evangelist is derived from the Greek word euaggelion, meaning “gospel” or “good news.” The verbal forms of euaggelizesthai, meaning “to bring” or “to announce good news” occur some fifty-five times (Acts 8:4, 25, 35; 11:20) and are normally translated with the appropriate form of the word “preach.”” Why are there churches and preachers? The evangelist is to preach the word! This is his great work. Why are there churches and preachers? He will be judged by God on how faithful he has been to the word and not on how pleasing he has been to men. (Gal 1:10; 4:16) Why are there churches and preachers? Galatians 1:10 (NKJV) 10For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ. Why are there churches and preachers? Galatians 4:16 (NKJV) 16Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth? Why are there churches and preachers? He caries a great burden to do his job well for the sake of his hearers. Why are there churches and preachers? He caries a great burden to do his job well for the sake of his hearers. What fruit will be produced? (2 Tim 2:1415; 1 Cor 3:9-15) Why are there churches and preachers? 2 Timothy 2:14-15 (NKJV) - Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Why are there churches and preachers? 1 Corinthians 3:9-15 (NKJV) - For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. 10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. Why are there churches and preachers? 11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. Why are there churches and preachers? 14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire. Why are there churches and preachers? The reward of the evangelist is to see the beautiful fruits of God’s word in the lives of others. (Phil 2:14-16; 3 Jn 2-4) Why are there churches and preachers? Philippians 2:14-16 (NKJV) - Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. Why are there churches and preachers? 3 John 1:2-4 (NKJV) - Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. Why are there churches and preachers? The evangelist is not a “pastor.” Why are there churches and preachers? God has given instructions for pastors. Their work is different! Why are there churches and preachers? God has given instructions for pastors. Their work is different! Most churches make the evangelist do the work of pastors by neglect! Why are there churches and preachers? God has given instructions for pastors. Their work is different! Most churches make the evangelist do the work of pastors by neglect! What is a church for? (Eph 4:11-16) Why are there churches and preachers? Ephesians 4:11-16 (NKJV) - And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; Why are there churches and preachers? 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— Why are there churches and preachers? 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. Why are there churches and preachers? A local church is equipped by the Lord to build up the saints! Why are there churches and preachers? A local church is equipped by the Lord to build up the saints! A local church will be involved with “every member” doing their part. Why are there churches and preachers? Many Christians think they are “hiring” a preacher to do their work! Expectations of a local church of an evangelist They can expect no more than the Lord does. (1 Cor 4:1-5) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 (NKJV) - Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 4 For I know of nothing against myself, yet I am not justified by this; but He who judges me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist What do you mean when you “hire” a preacher? Expectations of a local church of an evangelist If you mean you are supporting a man to be faithful to the work of the Lord then fine. But if you mean you are hiring a man to do your work or submit to human rules then you are wrong! (Ex. As a “youth minister” or special visitation.) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist Every Christian has responsibilities to the oversight of the church’s elders, including the preacher. This oversight, however, is limited! (Heb 13:17) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV) - Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist To preach the word plainly and boldly. (1 Tim 4:16) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 1 Timothy 4:16 (NKJV) - Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist Again, what is our goal? We need men to see and understand God’s word. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist Again, what is our goal? We need men to see and understand God’s word. This will allow them to place their faith in God and not in men. (2 Cor 4:5) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 2 Corinthians 4:5 (NKJV) - For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist To live a life consistent with being a Christian. (1 Tim 4:12, 16) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 1 Timothy 4:12 (NKJV) - Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 1 Timothy 4:16 (NKJV) - Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist To have a love the Lord and thus a love the truth! (1 Tim 6:3-5) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 1 Timothy 6:3-5 (NKJV) - If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, 4 he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 5 useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist A message becomes powerful when the hearer believe there is a genuine interest in their well-being on the part of the preacher! (Phil 2:17-23) Expectations of a local church of an evangelist Philippians 2:17-23 (NKJV) - Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me. 19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist 20 For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. 22 But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. 23 Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. Expectations of a local church of an evangelist If a man is trying to just “make a living” or advance a “career,” he should repent! Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Faithfulness to the Lord. (Col 2:18-19; Ezek 33:30-33) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Colossians 2:18-19 (NKJV) - Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Ezekiel 33:30-33 (NKJV) - “As for you, son of man, the children of your people are talking about you beside the walls and in the doors of the houses; and they speak to one another, everyone saying to his brother, ‘Please come and hear what the word is that comes from the LORD.’ Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church 31So they come to you as people do, they sit before you as My people, and they hear your words, but they do not do them; for with their mouth they show much love, but their hearts pursue their own gain. 32 Indeed you are to them as a very lovely song of one who has a pleasant voice and can play well on an instrument; for they hear your words, but they do not do them. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church 33And when this comes to pass—surely it will come—then they will know that a prophet has been among them.” Those who will stand up when conflict comes. (2 Tim 4:16-17; Gal 5:11; 6:12) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church 33And when this comes to pass—surely it will come—then they will know that a prophet has been among them.” Those who will stand up when conflict comes. (2 Tim 4:16-17; Gal 5:11; 6:12) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church 2 Timothy 4:16-17 (NKJV) - At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. 17 But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Galatians 5:11 (NKJV) - And I, brethren, if I still preach circumcision, why do I still suffer persecution? Then the offense of the cross has ceased. Galatians 6:12 (NKJV) - As many as desire to make a good showing in the flesh, these would compel you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Galatians 5:11 (NKJV) - And I, brethren, if I still preach circumcision, why do I still suffer persecution? Then the offense of the cross has ceased. Galatians 6:12 (NKJV) - As many as desire to make a good showing in the flesh, these would compel you to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church In many churches the evangelist must stand “alone.” Many “personality” issues are in fact doctrinal issues that cowardly men use to “run a preacher off.” Support and encouragement in his work. (2 Cor 11:8-9; Lk 10:7) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church In many churches the evangelist must stand “alone.” Many “personality” issues are in fact doctrinal issues that cowardly men use to “run a preacher off.” Support and encouragement in his work. (2 Cor 11:8-9; Lk 10:7) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church In many churches the evangelist must stand “alone.” Many “personality” issues are in fact doctrinal issues that cowardly men use to “run a preacher off.” Support and encouragement in his work. (2 Cor 11:8-9; Lk 10:7) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church 2 Corinthians 11:8-9 (NKJV) - I robbed other churches, taking wages from them to minister to you. 9 And when I was present with you, and in need, I was a burden to no one, for what I lacked the brethren who came from Macedonia supplied. And in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you, and so I will keep myself. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Luke 10:7 (NKJV) - And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house. It is a very common problem for a preacher to be involved in his work alone without understanding or help. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Luke 10:7 (NKJV) - And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give, for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house. It is a very common problem for a preacher to be involved in his work alone without understanding or help. Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church It is good for a man to be supported in this great work to be effective! Sadly this is difficult when proper leadership does not exist. Protection from carnal attacks and gossip from the weak. (Titus 1:10-11) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church It is good for a man to be supported in this great work to be effective! Sadly this is difficult when proper leadership does not exist. Protection from carnal attacks and gossip from the weak. (Titus 1:10-11) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Titus 1:10-11 (NKJV) - For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, 11whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. Some view the preacher as “expendable.” (Ex. He’s not a member.) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church Titus 1:10-11 (NKJV) - For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, 11whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. Some view the preacher as “expendable.” (Ex. He’s not a member.) Expectations of an Evangelist of a local church There are times where faithful men must stop those who would destroy another’s influence unfairly. When you destroy a preacher’s influence, you have destroyed his ability to effectively work. Special problems of our times Churches without elders. Special problems of our times Churches without elders. None of you would want to work under the arrangement of the “men’s business meeting!” While it is a proper scriptural arrangement, it has great weaknesses. Special problems of our times Churches without elders. None of you would want to work under the arrangement of the “men’s business meeting!” While it is a proper scriptural arrangement, it has great weaknesses. In the area of preacher’s support there is great ignorance. Sadly a young man is often ignored if he tries to explain his needs. (Ex. “You reckon that’s legal?”) Special problems of our times Lack of personal evangelism. (2 Tim 2:2) Special problems of our times 2 Timothy 2:2 (NKJV) - And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Special problems of our times Both the evangelist and the local church must be involved. Special problems of our times Both the evangelist and the local church must be involved. How can you expect the preacher to come into a community and reach people without the active work of every member? (Ex. Fishing class) Special problems of our times A wrong attitude towards preaching. Special problems of our times A wrong attitude towards preaching. Why did Paul receive criticism in his day? (2 Cor 10:10; 1 Cor 2:2-4) Special problems of our times 2 Corinthians 10:10 (NKJV) - “For his letters,” they say, “are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.” Special problems of our times 1 Corinthians 2:2-4 (NKJV) - For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 3 I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, Special problems of our times Today we see a shift of responsibility from the home to the preacher! Rather than preparing one’s heart for worship and expect that a man teach the truth, we are now concerned about “style and delivery.” (Ex. Clock watchers) Special problems of our times Recently Bill Hall preached a series about “problems facing the church” and one of his greatest concerns was “professionalism in preaching.” (Ex. Members visits 20 yrs ago) Special problems of our times Recently Bill Hall preached a series about “problems facing the church” and one of his greatest concerns was “professionalism in preaching.” (Ex. Members visits 20 yrs ago) Should a preacher become the focal point of “how the work is going?” Special problems of our times Recently Bill Hall preached a series about “problems facing the church” and one of his greatest concerns was “professionalism in preaching.” (Ex. Members visits 20 yrs ago) Should a preacher become the focal point of “how the work is going?” Too often we have made him the “pastor” in a de-facto way. Think! Special problems of our times When brethren make a preacher the focus of concern for things that are the duty of the whole congregation, it is almost certain that these same brethren have neglected their own duty! Special problems of our times When brethren make a preacher the focus of concern for things that are the duty of the whole congregation, it is almost certain that these same brethren have neglected their own duty! What is your attitude towards the work of preaching? (Rev 2:4-5) Special problems of our times Revelation 2:4-5 (NKJV) - Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.