Things You May Not Know About Ministry

[Nahum]

Originally Posted by mfblume

I have to disagree with point 1. I think the leading of the Holy Ghost supplies what we need to help folks. I have to admit I am fearful of the idea that we have to learn psychology and sociology in order to work for God. I am not saying it is sinful or anything, LOL. But I really think it is replacing the moving of the Spirit with the thoughts and inventions of men.

The disciples used the gifts of the Spirit as well as insight from the Spirit to work with people. They did not have colleges to attend in order to learn secular psychology, etc. I am not saying these things may not benefit one in ministry, but to say ministers HAVE TO HAVE these basic understandings is wrong in my opinion.

Now, I do not think it is analogous to the fact that we have technology today that the disciples never had, and if we use technology then.... They're two different animals altogether.

I think God's Spirit is meant to supply all we need to understand in these areas of sociology.

I'll change it to say "it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of Christian sociology and psychology".

I do think you are right about the leading of the Spirit, but some men enter ministry with very little people skills.

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

I'll go first.

1. A pastor needs to have a basic understanding of sociology and psychology.

No! An understanding of wicked worldly philosophies is not required. A thorough understanding of the sin nature is a must.

2. Less than 50% of pastors are full-time ministers.

Interesting.

3. Peer pressure exists in ministry. The pressure to perform is intense.

I don't doubt it but we can attribute it to the sinful nature.

4. Watching God work and mature new Christians is joy in action.

Amen!!!!!!!!!!!

5. Ministry is one of the most exhausting and fulfilling experiences on earth.

I think that would apply to anyone obeying God's call on one's life.

[mfblume]

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

I'll change it to say "it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of Christian sociology and psychology".

I do think you are right about the leading of the Spirit, but some men enter ministry with very little people skills.

I can agree with that.

[Nahum]

Originally Posted by mfblume

I can agree with that.

Hey Bro,

What do you wish you would have known?

[StillStanding]

From the perspective of a pastor's son growing up!

1. Must be able to roll with the punches.
2. Must realize that you can't please everybody.
3. Must know when to hold, and when to fold.
4. There are battles not worth winning!
5. Don't let them ever see you sweat!
6. Must show a possitive attitude no matter what is troubling you!
7. There are some preachers that you think are your friends, but will disappear when trouble comes!
8. There are other preachers that will come to your rescue that you didn't expect!
9. Must never tell your children to act right because of how it will look on you!
10. Must be prepared to take credit when things are going well, and blame when things are not!

[Jack Shephard]

Originally Posted by Pianoman

From the perspective of a pastor's son growing up!

1. Must be able to roll with the punches.
2. Must realize that you can't please everybody.
3. Must know when to hold, and when to fold.
4. There are battles not worth winning!
5. Don't let them ever see you sweat!
6. Must show a possitive attitude no matter what is troubling you!
7. There are some preachers that you think are your friends, but will disappear when trouble comes!
8. There are other preachers that will come to your rescue that you didn't expect!
9. Must never tell your children to act right because of how it will look on you!
10. Must be prepared to take credit when things are going well, and blame when things are not!

Great points Steinway man!

[SDG]

Originally Posted by Pianoman

From the perspective of a pastor's son growing up!

1. Must be able to roll with the punches.
2. Must realize that you can't please everybody.
3. Must know when to hold, and when to fold.
4. There are battles not worth winning!
5. Don't let them ever see you sweat!
6. Must show a possitive attitude no matter what is troubling you!
7. There are some preachers that you think are your friends, but will disappear when trouble comes!
8. There are other preachers that will come to your rescue that you didn't expect!
9. Must never tell your children to act right because of how it will look on you!
10. Must be prepared to take credit when things are going well, and blame when things are not!

On point ... Pianoman ... my dad epitomized everyone one of these.

[SDG]

Hey ... here's a novel thought ... act Christ-like.

[Kutless]

Originally Posted by Pastor Poster

I'll change it to say "it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of Christian sociology and psychology".

I do think you are right about the leading of the Spirit, but some men enter ministry with very little people skills.

I'm not a minister, but agree with the people skills thing bro.

[StillStanding]

Originally Posted by JTULLOCK

Great points Steinway man!

Originally Posted by Daniel Alicea

On point ... Pianoman ... my dad epitomized everyone one of these.

Thanks guys!