Originally Posted by NotforSale (Post 1029076)

Thanks, Elizabeth. I humbly admit, I sat on the pew for almost 20 years and became critical at times towards my pastor. Little did I know I would walk in his shoes one day, realizing what a fool I was for saying the things that I did.

People forget, the Pastor is human, and there is a great deal of pressure from the Church to falsely canonize the Ministry. This deeply hinders men and women from being “Real”, leading to depression, guilt, and shame. This can lead to bitter failure and even suicide.

After the doctor basically told me, change or die, I realized I needed to adjust my drive in trying to be "Perfect". I tell the Church on a regular basis, “Stop putting me on a Pedestal! I’m no different than you are! I live, breath, and suffer in my flesh like all human beings.”

Originally Posted by Coonskinner (Post 1028778)

Well, obviously God has the final say on who enters into that foursquare city.

However, the Scripture indicates a connection between the accounting given by those who "have the rule over you" (Paul's words, not mine), and our own judgment.

Heb 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

I am not exactly sure how this is going to play out, and I don't figure anybody else does either.

But it is very apparent from the Scripture that God does care about how we relate and respond to those set in spiritual authority in our lives, and that our eternal fate is impacted by that.

How exactly this all applies and what the parameters are, we can debate till the cows come home, but there is something there. That is unmistakable.

Originally Posted by Socialite (Post 1029010)

NFS, in fairness, I think most people LOVE and appreciate their pastor. This post is titled "Role of a Pastor," which usually connects to the idea of the biblical role of a pastor.

I really feel the call to eldership is a sobering one with practical realities. It is not a call to be a celebrity, but a servant. I also personally believe much of the burden a pastoring elder shoulders is because of the emphasis on the "one man show" -- that is, one pastor vs. many... plural leadership. In fact the Laity comparison to fans is a worthy analogy, because that's just about what it is in many places. The Church is not functioning the way God intended for it too. And suffering the consequences are good men and women like yourself. That does not mean there will never be suffering, or that serving others will be a walk in the park. Far from it. The reality is that it's a very high calling, not for the parade of ambition or popularity, but because of the intensity of that call. It's reckless abandon that somehow we must gain the perspective of "counting it all joy."

I take my hat off to you, even without knowing you, because you represent the names and faces of many precious people that have been part of my own life. Now as I serve in the same capacity, I think often of them. That we would all make it a joy for those who serve! May you be encouraged today, NFS! And yes, criticism is far easier than action!

Originally Posted by NotforSale (Post 1029128)

I consider this a misnomer amongst many who delve into the Ministry; They see the Platform, the Lights, the Respect and amen’s of a crowd, but they don't realize the servitude involvement, nor do they understand the time it can take to gain the confidence of people.

Anyone who attempts a Home Missions work or the birthing of a Church is in for a big surprise in today's Religious climate. People are skeptical and have very little trust when it comes to Faith. The scandals, money begging, and personal bad experiences are making it very difficult for Pastor's and their families to solidify a work for God.

Also, small Churches are susceptible to desperation, using people prematurely in hopes to gain momentum. A small Church can also be a magnet for people looking for a "Platform" light. I can't believe the people who have come here with previous SEVERE church problems, trying to sway me for a position.

I won't go into details, but the problems we have faced here are indescribable. My life has been threatened, my daughter raped by a “New Convert”, our house almost burned down by a disgruntled “Saint”, and I've watched church men put in prison for child molestation. Welcome to the Ministry!!

Thanks for the kind words at the end of your post, Socialite!

Originally Posted by Socialite (Post 1029130)

:jaw

AWFUL! We all have horror tails, but none so personal. How do you think you've made it this far? Who has helped you? What has helped you?

Originally Posted by NotforSale (Post 1029128)

I consider this a misnomer amongst many who delve into the Ministry; They see the Platform, the Lights, the Respect and amen’s of a crowd, but they don't realize the servitude involvement, nor do they understand the time it can take to gain the confidence of people.

Anyone who attempts a Home Missions work or the birthing of a Church is in for a big surprise in today's Religious climate. People are skeptical and have very little trust when it comes to Faith. The scandals, money begging, and personal bad experiences are making it very difficult for Pastor's and their families to solidify a work for God.

Also, small Churches are susceptible to desperation, using people prematurely in hopes to gain momentum. A small Church can also be a magnet for people looking for a "Platform" light. I can't believe the people who have come here with previous SEVERE church problems, trying to sway me for a position.

I won't go into details, but the problems we have faced here are indescribable. My life has been threatened, my daughter raped by a “New Convert”, our house almost burned down by a disgruntled “Saint”, and I've watched church men put in prison for child molestation. Welcome to the Ministry!!

Thanks for the kind words at the end of your post, Socialite!