In today’s service, we continued our enlightening series, “School of The Local Church,” with a focus on “Receiving Pastoral Ministry.” Pastor Joseph Ice delivered an insightful message, drawing from Isaiah 30:18 and Matthew 10:41, to emphasize the role and importance of pastoral ministry in our lives.
Key Points from the Sermon:
- Feeding with Knowledge: Pastor Ice began by highlighting that one of the primary responsibilities of a pastor is to provide their congregation with knowledge. This spiritual nourishment is essential for growth and understanding in the faith.
- Life Instructions: He stressed that pastors owe their congregants guidance and life instructions. These directives are foundational, helping believers navigate their spiritual and daily lives with wisdom and discernment.
- Importance of Questions: Pastor Ice pointed out that life is more about the questions we ask than the answers we receive. The nature of our inquiries shapes our understanding and growth. Asking meaningful and thought-provoking questions leads to deeper insights and more profound answers.
- Value of Questions: The quality of the questions we pose determines the quality of the answers we obtain. This principle encourages believers to engage thoughtfully and seek wisdom actively.
- Sense of Value and Virtue: Your sense of value, Pastor Ice explained, dictates the flow of virtue in your life. When you value and honor the pastoral ministry, you open yourself to receive greater blessings and spiritual virtues.
- Following Examples of Faith: Citing Hebrews 13:7, Pastor Ice urged the congregation to follow the examples of faith set by their spiritual leaders. Emulating their faith and practices can lead to a stronger, more resilient personal faith.
- Carriers of Grace: Men of God are carriers of grace. Recognizing and respecting this grace allows believers to tap into the divine favor and blessings that pastors bring into their lives.
- Approaching with Respect: He concluded with the principle that one should never meet a prophet empty-handed. This signifies the importance of approaching spiritual leaders with respect and honor, recognizing the value they bring.
This session was a powerful reminder of the critical role that pastoral ministry plays in the life of a believer. By valuing and actively engaging with the guidance of our pastors, we position ourselves to receive wisdom, grace, and blessings that enrich our spiritual journey.
Listen On Spotify: