Integrity in Ministry
Integrity in Ministry3
"We Have Renounced"
By A.W. Tozer02CO 4:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of renouncing hidden things of dishonesty and deceit in the Christian ministry, urging believers to uphold truth and integrity in their witness for Christ. He highlights that true ministry should not involve cleverness or craftiness, but rather a sincere and candid presentation of the Gospel. Tozer warns against using the Word of God deceitfully, advocating for a transparent approach that commends oneself to the consciences of all men in the sight of God. He calls for Christians to live authentically, focusing on their identity in Christ rather than seeking approval from societal or denominational pressures. As the sermon concludes, Tozer invites the congregation to partake in communion with a heart aligned to God’s truth.
Unholy Ministers
By Thomas Brooks0Thomas Brooks emphasizes the critical importance of ministers living out their faith authentically, arguing that their lives should reflect the heavenly doctrines they preach. He warns that unholy ministers can lead their congregations astray through their careless and sinful lifestyles, undermining the very message they proclaim. Brooks asserts that a minister's life often speaks louder than their words, and that a true minister should exemplify Christ in all aspects of life. He highlights the responsibility of ministers to be role models in love, faith, and purity, as their example can either uplift or destroy the souls they shepherd.
An Ignorant, Profane, and Soul-Flattering Clergy
By Thomas Brooks0EZK 34:2MAT 7:151CO 9:16GAL 1:101TI 4:162TI 4:2TIT 1:7HEB 13:17JAS 3:11PE 5:2Thomas Brooks emphasizes that a preacher's life must reflect their doctrine, asserting that an ignorant, profane, and soul-flattering clergy is a grave danger to society. He warns that such clergy enrich hell rather than uplift the gospel, sacrificing truth for personal gain. Brooks calls for pastors to preach and live in a manner that embodies the teachings of Jesus Christ, urging them to be sincere, powerful, and exemplary in their ministry. He stresses that without genuine preaching, the people will fall into wickedness and face spiritual peril. Ultimately, he challenges ministers to either embody the spirit of Christ or cease to claim the title of His ministers.