Let's Go Back to the Bible
HomePostsBulletin Articles2022 Bulletin ArticlesThe Work of Preachers,…

The Work of Preachers, According to Paul

On his Third Missionary Journey, Paul paused to meet with some special friends—the elders of the church in Ephesus.  They all sat down and discussed the work of the church and prayed together.  From Paul’s words on that occasion, we learn much about the work of a faithful preacher.  Consider these qualities and responsibilities of God’s evangelists:

  1. He is to live a consistent life, in accordance with the way of the Lord—“in what manner I always lived among you” (Acts 20:18).
  2. He is to serve “the Lord with all humility,” regardless of trials and circumstances (20:19).
  3. He must not hold back anything that is “helpful” for others to hear and know (20:20).
  4. He needs to teach “publicly and from house to house” (20:20).
  5. He is to be consistent in message to every person, regardless of who they are or what their background is (20:21).
  6. He must look beyond things that happen to him (or could happen to him) and evaluate what is truly “dear” and of “value” to him (20:22-24).
  7. He must prioritize “the course” and “the ministry” that he has as a minister of Christ to proclaim the gospel (20:24). 
  8. In preaching “the gospel,” he must give emphasis to “the kingdom of God” (20:24-25).
  9. He is responsible for “declaring…the whole counsel of God,” without leaving anything out (20:27).
  10. He must love the church, love the people, love the truth and love elders (20:28-31).
  11. He should work closely with elders to encourage them, assist them and warn them of dangers inside and outside the church (20:28-31).
  12. He must have a deep care for the purity of the gospel and the protection of His church (20:28-31).
  13. He must always point people to God and His Word (rather than himself), for therein alone is spiritual strength and eternal life (20:32).
  14. He must be a hard-worker and a self-starter, with a strong work ethic and control over worldly passions (20:33-35).
  15. He needs to be especially mindful of those who are struggling spiritually and may be overlooked (20:35).
  16. He is to remind all of “the words of the Lord” (20:35).

Now, you may say, “I’m not a preacher.  This has nothing to do with me.”  May I encourage you to go back and read the list.  Most of these things apply to everyone of us!