The Leading Principle of A Faithful Pastor

(This is a reblog from December, 2018) One of John Newton's lesser known works is called "A Review of Ecclesiastical History." It's a book that basicaly summarizes church history from Christ's birth until the end of the apostolic era. I've really enjoyed it so far, and I do recommend it. In one section, Newton discusses …

A Prayer for Ministerial Candidates (Newton)

What things should a man think about as he contemplates being officially called to the gospel ministry? This is obviously a huge question that has a long answer! One great and longer answer to that question is found in John Newton’s pamphlet called Ministry on My Mind. This is a booklet published by the John …

Angry Pastors and Elders!?!? (Ash)

One of the qualifications for a man to serve as an elder or pastor in Christ's church is that he must not be an angry man. If a man in the church has a hot temper or is known to explode in rage he is not elder material. If a hot-headed man wishes to become …

All That I Ought To Be (Grimke)

 In July 1928, on the fiftieth anniversary of his ordination to the gospel ministry, Francis Grimke wrote some reflections about his ministry.  At 78 years old, Grimke noted that he no longer had the mental or physical strength that he formerly had.  And as he looked back at his ministry, he readily confessed that God …

Pastors and Elders: For You

 The biblical work of a Christian pastor is sometimes quite difficult. I'm just noting this in general.  I don't have a specific personal situation in mind.  Generally speaking, being a pastor isn't cool and it's not an easy, comfortable calling.  Not only do pastors sometimes have to shepherd difficult people in difficult circumstances, they also …