“Just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who examines the hearts.” (1 Thessalonians 2:4 NAS)
Isn’t this an interesting passage from Paul? The Gospel is entrusted to us because God has approved us as capable ministers, worthy to proclaim it properly. So we speak this message in our own inimitable way not to impress a human audience, but to impress the one who examines all our hearts.
What a great thesis! We ministers must remember this and strive to achieve it. It certainly doesn’t give us unlimited license to do anything or say anything with little regard for the feelings and perspectives of the audience. But, Paul’s words are to inform the novice and remind the senior of why the gospel is entrusted to us: to please God.
As much as we like accolades, praise is not why we preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. You see the gospel’s power doesn’t rely on the oratory skill of the preacher. The gospel’s power doesn’t rely on the beauty or the persuasive skills of the preacher. With Paul we confess, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16).
From time to time, the preacher is very serious. Other times, he/she may use humor and wisecracks to convey the message. In all cases, some people will cheer the preacher and some won’t. W e preachers groan and moan over our “approval ratings.” We get excited about performance appraisals as much as anyone. Bad reviews punch us in the gut same as they do every one else. When a colleague is praised and we’re not, we wonder why? Although, we acknowledge Paul’s thesis above, we certainly enjoy applause.
Now, do not mistake my meaning here: I am not crying for your encouragement or applause. I am simply reviewing how we all love affirmation and appreciation. Preachers and pastors are no different. And those preachers who claim otherwise should repent.
The good news is that our addiction for affirmation is not deadly. From personal experience I can tell you that understanding one’s weakness and laughing at oneself can be very healthy. It is a good sign that we truly believe what Paul taught us about pleasing men or God.
Dear Father, thank you for reminding us that you entrusted the gospel to our care. Empower us to remember that pleasing you is our only goal. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be strong and courageous today in pleasing God,