Wanted: Ministers Who Preach Not Themselves

Dr. Michael Horton writes in Reformation Magazine:

"Over the years, I have noticed that "want ads" for pastors have changed quite remarkably...Nothing is mentioned about a commitment to Scripture, proclamation of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ, or any specific doctrinal convictions. Perhaps that is assumed, but it shouldn’t be these days.

For many today, the marks of the Church are relevance, success, and the pastor’s personal gifts, but for the apostles the marks were the Word rightly preached, the Sacraments rightly administered, and discipline exercised so that the first two marks would not be compromised. While personal godliness is essential for the minister, it is not essential for the ministry. The Gospel-preaching ministry even of someone who is unregenerate or living in serious sin can be more effective than the ministry of a pious person who does not preach Christ."

Read more of the Biblical role of the pastor here.