The apostles had the congregation in Jerusalem choose seven men to handle the financial affairs of the church. This came about when the Grecians were complaining about unfair treatment in the charitable distributions. While not always possible, it is the better part of wisdom for a minister to step back from being a trustee or from dealing with the financial affairs of his local congregation to avoid potential snares of the enemy. It frees the minister to be able to preach without regard to who is financially supporting him. After the pattern of the scripture, ministers should, as much as possible, allow men of good report among the congregation to oversee the financial affairs of their local congregations.

Arise, go unto Nineveh, that great city, and preach unto it the preaching that I bid thee. —Jonah 3:2

God gave the prophet Jonah a commission to go to Nineveh and “preach unto it the preaching that I bid thee.” The other prophets may be displeased, the people may not like it, and you may not get recognition for your sacrifice. You may even be run out of town, but be faithful. Do not preach opinion or your ideas, but preach what the Spirit says with love, judgment and Holy Ghost boldness.Read more

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God. —Romans 1:1

True ministers are called and ordained of God. They are chosen to spread the gospel and to speak as the spirit gives utterance. Paul identified himself “as a servant of Jesus Christ.” He was acknowledging Christ as his Master and Lord. He assumed no authority of his own but labored and spoke as a servant doing the will of the master.Read more

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. —Ezekiel 3:17

If you are a true minister of the gospel, God has set you as a watchman to His people. You are a sentinel to stand guard over the ministry to which you have been entrusted. Your ministry is not a profession but a calling from God and a commitment to the people. Listen to the Spirit of God and let the Word of God have preeminence in everything you teach and preach.

When the enemy is at work and souls are at stake, give warning from the Lord. Do not be afraid to sound the alarm and expose the enemy. People like to hear those things which comfort and encourage them. Those are necessary and important but not to the neglect of godly warnings. Many families and congregations have compromised truth because ministers neglected their duty to sound the alarm.

You are an ambassador for Christ, a representative of God. You are to feed, teach, admonish, and warn the flock. Love the people and sacrifice for them. Set an example of holiness and purity. When the trial is hot and things are difficult, remember that you are a minister of the Lord. He will stand by His own and help and strengthen you as you stay faithful.
-mws