I'm 66 and have a wonderful and profitable career in business. I started out at 16 thinking I was called to the ministry. I eventually realized that I was too hot headed to lead God's sheep and went in another direction. I'm so glad I did. I think that in the years ahead I will be able to help many ministries with the wealth that has come my way. Thanks for the video(s).
I too just turned 66 a month ago, and I too felt 'led' to be a preacher or pastor. Till this day I don't know whether I was 'Called' by GOD . Went to Secular college after HS graduation in 1977. Attended Baptistic and Reformed churches. Attend an IBC when health permits. According to OP I would NOT be a Good Pastor. Felt Called very Early in my Christian Life to 'Pray' for people, ministries, Churches, Missions, and Tract distribution. Behind the scenes works which don't get noticed. 'Laying Up Treasure In Heaven'
YES! You reminded me of a young man I met on a ferry in Samoa. He told me he was in school to become a pastor. I asked him why, He said because it is an easy job with good pay and social benefits. I was not a christian at the time but his answer shocked me.
Being a Pastor is a noble calling. I'm wondering if the young fellow on the ferry is seeing the social standing granted many faifeau (ministers) in Samoa. I have seen for myself through former family connections some of the expectations placed on Samoan pastor's.
My non denomination church ministers don't get paid from anyone, but instead work to morning jobs or are retired and serve the church as pastors, elders, deacons. However i have one question to be explained please.. you mention the fact of being pornography addict is a disqualifier especially for being a pastor, how this addiction is being defined? Is it by frequency, by looking lustful to females? I ask because there are sexless marriages, and the temptation of female promiscuity nowadays is at all time high, exposing their sexuality immorally.
Pastor Matt, I would add one more disqualification, cowardice. Here is the quote from the passage you used today: “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” In 2010 my husband had an affair and left me. When I discovered this, the first call I made was to my pastor of the PCA church of which I was a member. I was desperate for help and was shocked when no disciplinary action took place. My own brother, a ruling elder in a PCA church in TX (not in my church) was more than a little upset when he found out and actually had to call my pastor to remind my pastor of his responsibility to me and my husband and finally after over a month he and an elder came by to talk to my husband. I found out later my pastor didn’t want to do it for fear of being sued by my husband. What?? As a result I know of at least on elder that left the church because of this and after a few years the church shut down. That pastor has since started another church.
So sorry to hear of your former situation. It is a real reminder of the spiritual battles churches face even from members and you are right, cowardice especially in these last few years is evident in many 'pastors'. We need brave men of God to unashamedly preach the word and enforce church discipline righteously. God bless Patricia.
As a pastor who is in a constant battle with my own cowardice and inexperience, this breaks my heart. Please pray for me and other pastors to have the Spirit filled reliance and strength to handle these situations as God would have us. I am sorry for the hurt and damage done by this pastor's cowardice. I certainly hope God does a mighty work within him within this next church and that you have found a pastoral staff that is more vigilant.
@@maceawilder I am currently a member of an excellent PCA church in Georgia. When I joined the church I told three pastor of my past situation and he was shocked and saddened by the pastor’s failure to take action. I took an oath when I joined the church and I take it seriously. I WANT my church leaders to protect me and the purity of the church by doing what they are supposed to do if I fall into besetting sin. Thank you for your kind response brother. I will pray as you asked.
This is probably one of the most important messages for the church today. This needs to be seen and listened to repeatedly by all young Christian men. Thank you.
Good luck with that one. I can count on one hand the amount of pastors that didn't have a pride problem, and that's only because God broke them already. Question their authority, doctrine, and judgment and you will find out real quick how close they are walking with God.
I agree with your points 100%. I disagree with the delivery here. The implied dichotomy of ‘if you can’t do these things, go work at Wendy’s’ falls terribly short and I think hurts your point. If you aren’t qualified to do this, strive to be, and go be great at something else for the glory of God.
I think that was a bit of a Freudian slip revealing his opinion of where some of these bad pastors deserve to be working. He would most likely clarify his statement if confronted. He's probably thinking of Joel Osteen, Andy Stanley, etc... pastors that make others pull their hair out in frustration.
I had a similar thought. Not being qualified to pastoral ministry does not mean you are doomed to minimum wage employment. Joel O would probably be a very successful salesman. There are many excellent ways to successfully honor God with your profession outside of pastoral ministry. Lots of good stuff here though.
Yeah I agree. But in defense of pastor Everhard I think those were probably directed at other pastors who are certainly not qualified to be pastors. But I do agree that he should have clarified this up a bit more. Or maybe I am wrong.
The video is garbage compared to facing the Almighty. Have you ever heard these words: You will be judged more severely. Therefore, fear God. strive to be holy as the Lord is holy. I'm probably not making sense here. Just trying to say the focus should be on the Word of God; not some respected preacher.
Thank you so much for blunt talk. So many people think that they're called to the ministry, But are not able to count the cost. This is not a calling for the Weak or people who are not able to self start. I worked at a large church for many years and saw the pressure that the pastors dealt with. I will pray that you can stay strong in Him.
A very good (necessary) video. All of these points became obvious instantly when I began pastoral ministry. Also excellent reasons to ask for prayer from family, friends and congregants. By the way I pray for you and your ministry.
I actually just got the advice earlier this week that "If you can do anything else, do it" and he clarified by saying that sometimes the only thing that enables you to endure the hardships of pastoral ministry is your confidence in your calling. When you're truly called to pastoral ministry, it will be so hard for you to live a life apart from that calling
It also might be important to consider that some aspiring pastors may love the idea of teaching, disguised as a desire for pastoring. * Speaking from personal experience * If so, remember, you don't need to be a pastor to teach scripture. While a pastor needs to be a teacher, a teacher doesn't need to be a pastor.
I am a pastor, military veteran, former deputy, and a retired public high school teacher. Through those careers I have developed thicker skin and understand what Pastor Matthew said about the need for thick skin. But I believe the underlying issue may not be thin skin but pridefulness.
Absolutely... you hit the nail on the head. I have a special gift and discernment for sniffing out pride... sadly, because I have struggled with it so much myself. When a pastor is legitimately tested, questioned, or held accountable for error in doctrine or judgment... how he responds will tell how well he is walking in the Spirit or his pride/flesh. It's usually a mixed bag for me personally and reflective of how much time I'm renewing my mind with Scripture (love God; love neighbor) and praying for God to forgive me; change me; and help me to love others.
@nberrios777 you were part of a reply chain that I was on, but I don't see the discussion here anymore. It wasn't anything crazy. Was it taken down or is it just me? At any rate, your Christian Salsa playlist is awesome. Just FYI
That's no joke.... Mill stone... neck... ocean... yeah, that strikes the fear of God in me to be a good Berean , study to show yourself approved and be ready with a defense of what you believe in.
All are excellent qualifications not only for elders, but laypeople as well! When we profess our faith and act in these ways, we defame Him in front of the world. Thank you pastor for your faithful work here.
I’ve had a number of opportunities where I’ve attempted to go into ministry and each time God closed the door … and he saved me from a lot of heartache. Having an interest in theology does not make one suitable for ministry and it took a lot for me to learn that.
From Timothy and Titus "a pastor must be teachable" ... This IS written in my heart AND many other Pastors hearts. So where is this found in Paul's Epistles today? This question is of great importance right now. -a sober and alert living stone.
I'm looking to go into ministry and this video only made me want to do it even more🙏🏻 love what you said about the p word. A lot of pastors and Christians I've met are uncomfortable talking about it and it's very real dangers.
Not sure if its fair to say Baptistic churches don't have safeguards when ordaining pastors. I've never seen a pastor "ordain himself." There's always been an ordination committee made up of trusted pastors from churches in close fellowship or elders/deacons in the church to oversee the process.
Thank you very much. I was going to point out the same thing. I've been in Pastoral ministry now for over twenty six years, all in Baptist churches, and I've never experienced or been aware of the situation he's describing.
Maybe within your denomination... but "always"? No. Just because you haven't seen it, that doesn't mean it's not possible or that it hasn't happened. Is there wisdom in it? Absolutely. It's very appealing to think that way if you like rules and structure (Oh how love i thy law), but we have to watch ourselves not to formulate rules and impose them where God is vague or silent. I personally like order and control when it benefits me, and this is the snare of many church leaders. They want to control the behavior and "membership" of the Church in ways that God has not given them authority to, and men mostly usurp the authority for reasons of convenience and practicality. It ends being a compromise of what God wants. The only easy part of any of this is compromise itself.
@@sonnyh9774 I was specifically talking from my point of view in my comment if you read it carefully. I was just saying that Pastor Everhard shouldn’t make a blanket statement about a denomination regarding a lack of ordination safeguards because there are plenty of counter-examples.
best advice i ever heard about becoming a pastor: if you can do anything else, do it. if God calls you to the pastorship all other doors will be closed. the Quote you gave i heard from Alistair Begg
Pastor Everhard, I have a question. Right now I am in kind of a fallen state. I fell hard, keep falling and the ball is rolling down. But i also cry about it and know deeply that this is completely against what was revealed to me. I feel like a traitor, like the worst lowlife creature, and I thank God for it because this is the string that holds me tight, this is the string that comforts me that for as much as it seems I try to forget Him, He doesn’t forgets me for a second. This is an unbreakable string it seems, and it’s a revelation by itself which I witness with awe. Now, I definitely am not qualified for pastoral life, for reasons you mentioned and many others you didn’t. But I do feel, in the moments i’m connected despite the rolling falling, how ferociously I would like to devote my life to God, completely. But, also, away from people. I have tremendous hate for humanity which was rooted in me before our Lord Jesus Christ entered my life. Now, this hate is no longer rooted thanks God, it was indeed turned over to deep love and the dark pit received the holy light, amen, but my hate and separatism is still very present on the surface level to this day, this is who I am as a person on earth and my falling state definitely doesn’t help. So, my question, regarding all of this, what are your thoughts on monastic life? Is this even a thing for a protestant? I am soon 35 by the way and single.
Loved the honesty and straightforwardness of this video. I pray for more pastors willing to speak truth like you shared. Not condemnation but the Word of God - it's all there in the Word - you SHOULDN'T be a pastor if you can't read the Word and glean truth from it!
Thank you for the video. I have wrestled with a call to ministry for a long time (30 years). The responsibility and standard for teachers/pastors ( mill stone, neck, ocean) frightens me to the point that I hardly think I'm worthy or capable. Pastoring seems like a heavy burden. Thankfully, being called to minister isn't limited to being a pastor. We are all ministers... to love our brother.... just some are better at it than others.
In terms of the “thin skin” qualification: there’s a difference between being hurt by criticism and genuinely taking it to heart and responding in a godly way. Everything about this video is great and I really appreciate this, as someone who aspires to be an overseer.
This was well done. And on top of all of these things, the world will get darker until our King comes. Pastors will need to know and understand what the Lord is and will do to effectively guide their flock. A great falling away from the faith is coming and many are not prepared. But so is our King so get ready. Take care.
I am pretty sure that the person that said "If you could do anything else, do that" was Martin Lloyd Jones in Preaching and Preachers. Videos like these are good reminders people like me pursuing the pastorate. Thank you!
This was a great video. It was a great barometer for you to check yourself. I Pastor and I love doing it. I found that the 1st point that you is one that I am a little slack in (no pun intended). Got to grow more in that area of my life.
Those are good points that need to be said the hard way. So young Christians can understand. I was in my 20's thinking I could be a pastor. After seeing myself and seeing everything that's involved in it, I realized I do not have the gift of being a pastor. The desire of it isn't enough. If I would have done it I would have just failed. Plenty of other good ways to serve the Lord.
This is really good advice to keep unqualified men out of the ministry. Ministry is not something men should enter into lightly. Like it says in 1 Tim 5:22, that pastors should not lay hands on anyone suddenly, but should faithfully and wisely make choice of fit persons to serve in this office of the church (BCP). Maybe you did not have time to address this in the video, but I wanted to hear what forms and degrees of sin and imperfection are not disqualifying, since all pastors struggle with some degree of every sin you made mention of in this video.
Love your videos! Can you please consider making a followup to this where you go over the best jobs/positions for people who would like to be pastors, but for whatever reason can’t/won’t be? Id appreciate that!
Where in The New Testament do we find the one-man-show called a ‘pastor’ who stands elevated once or twice a week telling the ‘mute sheep’ sitting in the pews what God’s Word says and means…..and performs this ‘ministry’ in a building called a ‘church’ which is funded by the ‘mute sheep’ via their old testament ‘tithes’ backed up with what the ‘pastor’ tells them is said in Malachi to the Hebrew priests, but is also a requirement of the New Testament Saints?
A great book to read which covers the topic in a pointed way is, "Dear Preacher, Please Quit", by Dr. Roy Branson published by Landmark Publications in Lancaster, California. He's written several other books dealing with the ministry and churches. Radio Bible Class published a book a number of years ago called, "Person to Pastor", which is full of gems from the church member 's perspective. A good read for anyone in ministry.
I agree with 99 % of what you said, but when you brought money as a reason for ministry, I had to say something. It isn't about what the congregation is paying one to do, it's about obeying the call of God, loving the Word, and the ministry, not about remuneration. I don't preach because the church pays me, that's incidental because I would do it for free. To qualify my statement, I am a retiree who has been blessed, so I don't need the money, but I accept their blessing to me so that the congregation will be blessed for their generosity.
I think it's also important to consider that there are slumps and seasons that are not typical of who you are over time. Illness and depression etc are what I have in mind. I am also a Presbyterian. Would be great to hear the perspective of this video but aimed at ruling elders.
I think my main fault is paperwork. Assignments and having the motivation to do "the homework." Many of the other things that you mentioned I am good on, but meeting those deadlines would be my main issue. I am still currently discerning this area of my life, but as things currently stand I'm starting to think that God can use me elsewhere for ministry. I am very thankful for this video. God bless you pastor.
Lord Jesus called Himself God Matthew 7:22-23 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ Mark 2:28 28 Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.” Luke 6:46 46 “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? Revelation 22:13 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” (in Isaiah 41:4 God Almighty called Himself "The First and The Last".) Revelation 1:17-18 17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. 18 I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. (God calls Himself the First and the Last in Old Testament Isaiah 41:4, 44;6, 48:12.) Matthew 12:8 8 For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”(Sabbath day is God' Deuteronomy 5:14) John 8:58 58 Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.” (God's name is "I AM" Exodus 3:14) John 10:29-30 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30 I and My Father are one.” Matthew 28:19 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (Disciples calling Jesus God in the GOSPELS and some letters) John 20:28 28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” Matthew 13:51 51 Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Matthew 14:28 28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” Titus 2:13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. (( In Ezra 5:8, Nehemiah 8:6 & Daniel 2:45 YHWH (God) is called Great God. In Titus 2:13 Lord Jesus Christ is called Great God which means Lord Jesus is Great God.)) 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ 1 John 5:20 20 And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life. Philippians 2:5:11 5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. John 1:1&14 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God& John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (God forgives sins in old testament, Jesus can also forgive sins) Mark 2:5-7 5 When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” 6 And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” John 14:11 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves. God The Father called Lord Jesus Christ God Hebrews 1:8 But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. (See verses 10-12 and compare it with Pslam 102:25-27) (Lastly Old Testament said the Messiah will be God)Isaiah 9:6 6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Psalm 110:1 110 The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” Also way, truth, life is one of 99 names, Jesus called Himself The Way, The Truth, The Life in John 14:6 _________ Jesus said He is the Son of God. John 3:16-18 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 17:1-3 17 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. John 9:35-38 35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He had found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?" 36 He answered and said, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?” 37 And Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him and it is He who is talking with you.” 38 Then he said, “Lord, I believe!” And he worshiped Him. Mark 14:61-62 61 But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” 62 Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” Matthew 26:63-64 63 But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest answered and said to Him, “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!” 64 Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Matthew 16:15-17 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. Luke 22:70 70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” John 5:23 23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. John 6:67-69 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” 68 But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” __ GOD calling Jesus His Son Mark 1:9-11 9 It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. 11 Then a voice came from heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Mark 9:7 7 And a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” Matthew 3:17 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Luke 3:22 And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.” __ Even angel Gabriel called Lord Jesus Son of God Luke 1:32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. __ His followers calling Him son of God Matthew 16:15-17 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 14:32-33 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.” __ Martha calls Lord Jesus Son of God John 11:23-27 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 Martha said to Him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” __
I agreed without reservation with everything you said. I would like to suggest a couple other filters to keep the wrong men out of pastoral ministry. 1. If you follow Matthew's TH-cam page this probably this probably does not apply to you. You should not go into pastoral ministry if you cannot understand the value of seminary training or cannot see what can be learned from the historic confessions or from sound Christian theologians of the past. If you do not believe scripture in both inerrant and inspired you are probably not even a Christian. 2. If you are not a "people person" willing to know all of the adult members of your congregation. You must be willing and able speak to new members and visitors. I have always thought that the two most valued personality traits of a pastor's wife is to be genial but sober minded. That is equally important for a pastor. 3. You will greatly hinder a church if you are a control freak. The Elders are responsible for the spiritual health of the church but should be willing to turn over temporal responsibilities to faithful congregants who have skills, knowledge and time that you do not. If your ego or insecurities lead you to micromanage people you will probably fail as a pastor. 4. You should be satisfied with the congregation God gives you. You should not be a pastor if you have an overwhelming desire to fill seats or attract a certain type of congregant as opposed to others.
We need more evangelists in this world, not less. No man is perfect. If you have the talent to preach, then do it. Stop putting men on pedestals. Also, pastor is not a preacher, it’s the role of an elder or overseer. Pastors are the leaders of a congregation. These terms are often confused but they are different in the Bible. Timothy is an evangelist but is a young man, ie not a pastor (1 Tim 4:12, 2 Tim 4:1-5).
Good morning, I heard of a Pastor, whose wife Wrote his Sermons. He was Too lazy. 😮 She did sadly Divorce him, but for other reasons as well! Sad reflection on Godly People 😵😮😢
Yes. "Lectures to My Students". One quote I think I remember more or less right, from long ago, was "If you could be satisfied being a greengrocer, a lawyer, or a king [instead of being a pastor], do it!". :--}>
Great video and nicely delivered. All come down to discipline and self control in some capacity. Question, pastor, what do you think about being very overweight? In the past I have had trouble respecting and getting past pastors who are very overweight because it is hard for me to take them seriously for some reason, and I guess that reason is that they clearly don’t have self control. Am I wrong to have this take or should I be more charitable? Im not talking about 20-30 lbs overweight with a bit of a gut(most of us are 15-20 pounds above our “fighting weight” id guess) but im talking 50+ pounds/it’s the first thing you notice when they walk into a room.
Good video! I would just say somebody who isn’t a pastor does not necessarily mean that they work, as you say, as a mall cop or work in Wendy’s or Walmart.
@@AJMacDonaldJr Yup. Basically went against some of the points he mentioned here. I’m a pastor and in my congregation there are members who work in Walmart. Does that make me better than them? Obviously not.
I think that was a bit of a Freudian slip revealing his opinion of where some of these bad pastors deserve to be working. He would most likely clarify his statement if confronted. He's probably thinking of Joel Osteen, Andy Stanley, etc... pastors that make others pull their hair out in frustration.
My biggest complaint of pastors has to do with their willingness to go places where it takes real courage to go and challenge people because they’re afraid that too many might be offended and leave, giving could suffer and thereby the pastor’s job would be in jeopardy and his pension. There’s good reason to believe that there are a lot of people just “playing church“ even in reformed congregations, I regret to say, and they need to be rooted out and encouraged to leave through some tough messages for their own good. Maybe there’s a reason why the late D. James Kennedy used to sometimes mention during a message how he would “hate to be handcuffed to some of the people in the congregation when they die.“ And then sometimes they reference people with unsound theology during their sermons without apparently having done some research on them, guys like CS Lewis, who believed in purgatory and Adrian Rogers, who hated reformed theology, in other words, the real gospel. An example would be last Sunday when my pastor mentioned the new book by Rosaria Butterfield. He should’ve added some troubling things about her that maybe he doesn’t know or hasn’t taken that time to research, such as her friendship and approval of Russell Moore.
Genuine question I am a young man who is a slacker and is struggling with self control. I understand I am not fit or even qualified to be a Pastor. But can’t God through prayer and the sanctification of the Holy Spirit make me more Holy or should I just throw away the idea or getting into ministry
What if you are overweight from years of sin before, and have been fighting and working on it, growing in progress of discipline of health and fitness is this a disqualifier? Is this considered not managing your health, despite it being the past and being mortified and progress being shown now? Yet you meet the other qualifications, is that truly a disqualifier quantified as not self-controlled? Curious as I've been a pastoral intern for near 2 years and studying Theology at RBC and am currently a deacon. Thanks!
While I wouldn't mind becoming part of a Lay team, or even an Elder, I would not want to become a Pastor... I'd rather be part of the 'behind the scenes' team.
I'd like to focus on the words 'pastor' and 'elder'. Paul talks of 'elders'. This is not the modern post-reformation concept of the 'pastor', or 'minister'. The one man show running the church like an organization or military unit (from platoon to company size: Lieutenant to Captain rank). The 'elders' are the overseers, those with responsibility for the conduct and teaching of the church and its mutual pastoral care. Their chief job would be in terms of 1 Cor 12-14 to conduct an orderly assembly where all gifts could be exercised in the edification or building up of one-another. There is precious little 'one-anothering' in modern church assemblies (services as they've come to be known as we mimic pagan temple service). There is also very little true eldership in Titus' terms and with the kind, wise, care that should flow. The church assembly has been reduced to spectatoring at a performance by the paid guy and the music band or ensemble. This reduces the church to a passive silent majority with no experience or skill in public communication of the Faith, and a highly exercised spiritual 'expert' doing the church role for everyone. This is a very poor result compared to Paul's expectation of what a gathering of Christians should be. For example, a 'sermon' is probably the poorest method of developmental instruction of adults. To be successful we probably need several shorter contributions by gifted people, with discussion and 'searching the word' together and talking it over. Titus rules out a both a single or even group of paid staff as the elders and certainly rules out young people. In fact, Hebrews suggests that almost everyone should mature to being able to teach in some way. The Christian assembly is not a one-man ( or -woman) show with that person as the chief authority of the gathering. If you can find them, check out Darryl Erkel's articles on church life.
Yes, there are more flavors of Presbyterians than you can find flavors at the ice cream shop. He doesn't appear to be a liberal. The Betsy Ross flag screams that.
Only Apostate and Unbelieving ones who are not Fit to be called Presbyterian and have Disqualified themselves as places of Teaching and Worship! The OPC most Certainly *does not* ordain women, Nor does the Evangelical Connexion! Yet OPC is Presbyterian, and Evangelical Connexion is sort of Half Way between Reformed Episcopal and Anglo-Presbyterian, leaning more towards Anglo-Presbyterian as they elect Pastors and Leaders via Presbytery and do not Recognize Apostate Canterbury nor its False Authority. In fact, as a former member of the Cult of England, I go so far as to say that any "church", such the Liberal false churches within part of its ranks giving the EPC a bad name , Regardless of its Denomination, that ordains a woman to preach (for 1st Corinthians Chapter 14 and 1st Timothy Chapter 2 are clear as daylight that women are to be *Silent* in the Church! women are *not* to Speak, unless they are joining in, which they must do, with Congregational Hymns, Congregational Prayers (by the way: as 9marks makes very clear, any church that forbids a woman to Pray or Worship in any way is also a false church, and is most likely an accursed Wesleyan-Voodoo "pentecostal" Satanic Cult!), Congregational Psalmody, or their Communion Vows! otherwise *Silence* , (this also goes for any man in the pews while the Pastor is preaching, so as he is not interrupted and so the church is not dragged into Disarray!) , women are not even to be Lay Readers (only the Man may read the Holy Written word of God inside of the Church! for he is teaching as he does so!), so they are most certainly are *Not* to Preach!) , automatically, at that *very Second* becomes *Apostate and Ichabod* and should be immediately *Excommunicated* as a false church and as a Cult! so their *Willful Rebellion against God* does not, as the *Gangrene* that it is, Infect the Entire Denomination! Egalitarianism is Heresy! the Church must remain Patriarchal, as the Holy written word of God commands!
The PCA and OPC don't ordain women. Individual congregation of the EPC do not ordain women, but others do. I could attend any of those three, especially the 1st two.
@@timothykeith1367 Thank you deeply for the Extra Information, it seems I got the PCA and the more Liberal Elements of the EPC mixed up, Please forgive me for that mistake, I need to edit the Post. Love and Peace.
Disciplined! Not someone that puts other things before shepherding the flock, or someone that doesnt have time to study and do the hard work of preparing. The pastor at our previous church would steal (he called it borrowing to me) large chunks of other pastor sermons and preached them as his own with no citation. When brought to his attention by myself and 2 other elders, he was humble and repentive or so it seemed. He then used the pulpit to bully. This went on for 2 years before we ended up leaving. Very sad and painful for our families. Too busy building your own kingdom to put in the time, do something else
Leftwinged or rightwinged, I’ve heard it from both sides. I try to be a good peacemaker, but I will see to ate THE point decently. The only one I called down were those who said the Spencer Congregation Church was struck with lightning and deserved to burn down. Temper? I channel it to better channels.
I went to seminary with men who saw and were encouraged to see ministry as a career. The training I got was valuable but in the end I left. I hear folks talking about a 'calling ' and to this day have no clear idea what the word is supposed to mean. It sounds like part of some magic incantation. No thanks.
Pastor Mathew not every man who is not a good candidate for becoming a pastor needs to settle for working at wal mart, fast food, security guard...etc Don't think more highly of yourself than you should. Many christian men who do not become pastors manage to have good careers in meaningful professions where they are able to minister to people who otherwise might never hear the fullness of the Gospel. 🙏🕊️✝️
Scripture Clearly specify th qualifications that are needed to be a Pastor and he is not thinking highly of himself. Thats why it is severely important you learn from the Holy Spirit and Grow in the Word daily so that once Christ grows you to maturity, you will become quilified to minister his word. You cannot teach or minister if your a baby point blank period. Thats why there is so much false professing christians whos misleading the mass and why many like you think its fine to deal with the word half-heartedly and think they are saved not realizing there are being carried by their own delision in thinking there own way is right when its not.
That sage, secure Canadian Politician .. calmly eating his apple in the face of a devious reporter .. is Pierre Polievre, House Opposition Leader .. thankfully, our next Prime Minister .. kind, fair, upright in so many ways. Sadly not a Believer.
Knowing how the typical pastor, especially in a reformed church, is overwhelmed with duties and responsibilities, how in the world does Matt have time to do all these videos, especially assuming he’s got children and a wife at home. Is something or someone being neglected, perhaps? Not to be critical or anything.
Go work at wendys is like Go shepherd sheep thats how the pharisees saw shepherds during the time of our Lord. They even condescended to Peter when they heard him preaching in the book of Acts. "arent these men GALILEANS?" GOD can use everyone. When he choses someone as an instrument all the pastoral qualities will gradually come out of them not because of their inherent traits but because the Grace of GOd enables them to act accordingly though not perfectly. i.e Peter, David etc.
If you don’t divide the word! If you don’t believe the Mystery!If you don’t know the difference between prophecy and mystery!And if you don’t have the boldness to share this truth!👍👏😊
I don't think most of your online audience in all honesty would work in wallmart or Wendy's or security mall when they cannot be pastors.They have good intellect to do that. Don't put that as an alternative. Although they are jobs. I am an IT professional, teacher, interpreter at times and writer and English is my second Language.I think You should know that Your content is more for intellectual minds thn simple people. Thats my opinion. Otherwise I like Your content. GBY. Tomas
This is a good video minus the unintended condescending verbiage. I would have liked the message to have a softer tone so that the persons who don’t make good pastor candidates can walk awhile inspired to go on and do great things in another field, instead of the repetitive down-talk. Good idea for a video and the points are definitely valid. Still, word choice leaves much to be desired (not the whole thing, but yes in some areas). “Go work at Wendy’s” smh 🤦♂️
I'm 66 and have a wonderful and profitable career in business. I started out at 16 thinking I was called to the ministry. I eventually realized that I was too hot headed to lead God's sheep and went in another direction. I'm so glad I did. I think that in the years ahead I will be able to help many ministries with the wealth that has come my way. Thanks for the video(s).
Perhaps that is/was your ministry call. We all have one.
I too just turned 66 a month ago, and I too felt 'led' to be a preacher or pastor. Till this day I don't know whether I was 'Called' by GOD . Went to Secular college after HS graduation in 1977. Attended Baptistic and Reformed churches. Attend an IBC when health permits. According to OP I would NOT be a Good Pastor. Felt Called very Early in my Christian Life to 'Pray' for people, ministries, Churches, Missions, and Tract distribution. Behind the scenes works which don't get noticed. 'Laying Up Treasure In Heaven'
@@longstreet2740behind the scenes, like praying for our pastors and churches, is super important. Thank-you for your ministry.
I appreciate the intensity of this video. I am not a pastor, but I believe this role should be taken more seriously in churches
YES! You reminded me of a young man I met on a ferry in Samoa. He told me he was in school to become a pastor. I asked him why, He said because it is an easy job with good pay and social benefits. I was not a christian at the time but his answer shocked me.
He's in for a ride awakening.
Being a Pastor is a noble calling. I'm wondering if the young fellow on the ferry is seeing the social standing granted many faifeau (ministers) in Samoa. I have seen for myself through former family connections some of the expectations placed on Samoan pastor's.
being a pastor has good pay? News to me. LOL
Wow 😮
My non denomination church ministers don't get paid from anyone, but instead work to morning jobs or are retired and serve the church as pastors, elders, deacons. However i have one question to be explained please.. you mention the fact of being pornography addict is a disqualifier especially for being a pastor, how this addiction is being defined? Is it by frequency, by looking lustful to females? I ask because there are sexless marriages, and the temptation of female promiscuity nowadays is at all time high, exposing their sexuality immorally.
A pastor needs to be faithful to the Bible even if his denomination goes woke.
Pastor Matt, I would add one more disqualification, cowardice. Here is the quote from the passage you used today: “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”
In 2010 my husband had an affair and left me. When I discovered this, the first call I made was to my pastor of the PCA church of which I was a member. I was desperate for help and was shocked when no disciplinary action took place. My own brother, a ruling elder in a PCA church in TX (not in my church) was more than a little upset when he found out and actually had to call my pastor to remind my pastor of his responsibility to me and my husband and finally after over a month he and an elder came by to talk to my husband. I found out later my pastor didn’t want to do it for fear of being sued by my husband. What?? As a result I know of at least on elder that left the church because of this and after a few years the church shut down. That pastor has since started another church.
So sorry to hear of your former situation. It is a real reminder of the spiritual battles churches face even from members and you are right, cowardice especially in these last few years is evident in many 'pastors'. We need brave men of God to unashamedly preach the word and enforce church discipline righteously. God bless Patricia.
As a pastor who is in a constant battle with my own cowardice and inexperience, this breaks my heart. Please pray for me and other pastors to have the Spirit filled reliance and strength to handle these situations as God would have us. I am sorry for the hurt and damage done by this pastor's cowardice. I certainly hope God does a mighty work within him within this next church and that you have found a pastoral staff that is more vigilant.
@@maceawilder I am currently a member of an excellent PCA church in Georgia. When I joined the church I told three pastor of my past situation and he was shocked and saddened by the pastor’s failure to take action. I took an oath when I joined the church and I take it seriously. I WANT my church leaders to protect me and the purity of the church by doing what they are supposed to do if I fall into besetting sin. Thank you for your kind response brother. I will pray as you asked.
Cowardice is an epidemic today in pulpits I blame the seminaries
100% agree
This is probably one of the most important messages for the church today. This needs to be seen and listened to repeatedly by all young Christian men. Thank you.
"He must not be arrogant..."
Good luck with that one. I can count on one hand the amount of pastors that didn't have a pride problem, and that's only because God broke them already. Question their authority, doctrine, and judgment and you will find out real quick how close they are walking with God.
I agree with your points 100%. I disagree with the delivery here. The implied dichotomy of ‘if you can’t do these things, go work at Wendy’s’ falls terribly short and I think hurts your point. If you aren’t qualified to do this, strive to be, and go be great at something else for the glory of God.
I think that was a bit of a Freudian slip revealing his opinion of where some of these bad pastors deserve to be working. He would most likely clarify his statement if confronted. He's probably thinking of Joel Osteen, Andy Stanley, etc... pastors that make others pull their hair out in frustration.
Yeah. Good possibility. Overall message is solid.
I had a similar thought. Not being qualified to pastoral ministry does not mean you are doomed to minimum wage employment. Joel O would probably be a very successful salesman. There are many excellent ways to successfully honor God with your profession outside of pastoral ministry.
Lots of good stuff here though.
Yeah I agree. But in defense of pastor Everhard I think those were probably directed at other pastors who are certainly not qualified to be pastors. But I do agree that he should have clarified this up a bit more. Or maybe I am wrong.
Im in the process of becoming a baptist preacher.. This was a powerhouse of a video thank you
I wish you well for your journey. May you make a difference in the lives of people you meet.
@@richardvoogd705 thank you
The video is garbage compared to facing the Almighty.
Have you ever heard these words: You will be judged more severely.
Therefore, fear God. strive to be holy as the Lord is holy.
I'm probably not making sense here. Just trying to say the focus should be on the Word of God; not some respected preacher.
Thank you so much for blunt talk. So many people think that they're called to the ministry, But are not able to count the cost. This is not a calling for the Weak or people who are not able to self start. I worked at a large church for many years and saw the pressure that the pastors dealt with. I will pray that you can stay strong in Him.
Tough, but absolutely necessary, words.
A very good (necessary) video. All of these points became obvious instantly when I began pastoral ministry. Also excellent reasons to ask for prayer from family, friends and congregants. By the way I pray for you and your ministry.
I actually just got the advice earlier this week that "If you can do anything else, do it" and he clarified by saying that sometimes the only thing that enables you to endure the hardships of pastoral ministry is your confidence in your calling. When you're truly called to pastoral ministry, it will be so hard for you to live a life apart from that calling
It also might be important to consider that some aspiring pastors may love the idea of teaching, disguised as a desire for pastoring. * Speaking from personal experience *
If so, remember, you don't need to be a pastor to teach scripture.
While a pastor needs to be a teacher, a teacher doesn't need to be a pastor.
I am a pastor, military veteran, former deputy, and a retired public high school teacher. Through those careers I have developed thicker skin and understand what Pastor Matthew said about the need for thick skin. But I believe the underlying issue may not be thin skin but pridefulness.
Absolutely... you hit the nail on the head. I have a special gift and discernment for sniffing out pride... sadly, because I have struggled with it so much myself. When a pastor is legitimately tested, questioned, or held accountable for error in doctrine or judgment... how he responds will tell how well he is walking in the Spirit or his pride/flesh. It's usually a mixed bag for me personally and reflective of how much time I'm renewing my mind with Scripture (love God; love neighbor) and praying for God to forgive me; change me; and help me to love others.
@@sonnyh9774 Amen brother. The Potter is continually molding us, and He is perfectly good at doing that. 🙂
@nberrios777 you were part of a reply chain that I was on, but I don't see the discussion here anymore. It wasn't anything crazy. Was it taken down or is it just me? At any rate, your Christian Salsa playlist is awesome. Just FYI
@@tenshivee950 Thank you. God gives good gifts. 🙂
Wise words. I hope all the young men who are considering entering the ministry take them to heart.
James 3:1. Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.
That's no joke.... Mill stone... neck... ocean... yeah, that strikes the fear of God in me to be a good Berean , study to show yourself approved and be ready with a defense of what you believe in.
All are excellent qualifications not only for elders, but laypeople as well! When we profess our faith and act in these ways, we defame Him in front of the world. Thank you pastor for your faithful work here.
This was absolutely wonderfully said, every pastor ought to watch this video!
I’ve had a number of opportunities where I’ve attempted to go into ministry and each time God closed the door … and he saved me from a lot of heartache.
Having an interest in theology does not make one suitable for ministry and it took a lot for me to learn that.
From Timothy and Titus "a pastor must be teachable" ... This IS written in my heart AND many other Pastors hearts. So where is this found in Paul's Epistles today? This question is of great importance right now. -a sober and alert living stone.
I'm looking to go into ministry and this video only made me want to do it even more🙏🏻 love what you said about the p word. A lot of pastors and Christians I've met are uncomfortable talking about it and it's very real dangers.
Not sure if its fair to say Baptistic churches don't have safeguards when ordaining pastors. I've never seen a pastor "ordain himself." There's always been an ordination committee made up of trusted pastors from churches in close fellowship or elders/deacons in the church to oversee the process.
Thank you very much. I was going to point out the same thing. I've been in Pastoral ministry now for over twenty six years, all in Baptist churches, and I've never experienced or been aware of the situation he's describing.
Free Will Baptists have a process through an ordaining presbytery.
Maybe within your denomination... but "always"? No. Just because you haven't seen it, that doesn't mean it's not possible or that it hasn't happened. Is there wisdom in it? Absolutely. It's very appealing to think that way if you like rules and structure (Oh how love i thy law), but we have to watch ourselves not to formulate rules and impose them where God is vague or silent. I personally like order and control when it benefits me, and this is the snare of many church leaders. They want to control the behavior and "membership" of the Church in ways that God has not given them authority to, and men mostly usurp the authority for reasons of convenience and practicality. It ends being a compromise of what God wants. The only easy part of any of this is compromise itself.
@@sonnyh9774 I was specifically talking from my point of view in my comment if you read it carefully. I was just saying that Pastor Everhard shouldn’t make a blanket statement about a denomination regarding a lack of ordination safeguards because there are plenty of counter-examples.
Wow. Powerful message that is very much needed. GB.
best advice i ever heard about becoming a pastor: if you can do anything else, do it. if God calls you to the pastorship all other doors will be closed. the Quote you gave i heard from Alistair Begg
Exceptional video, brother Matthew. Very helpful indeed. Thank you for this. Keep up the awesome content!
Pastor Everhard, I have a question.
Right now I am in kind of a fallen state. I fell hard, keep falling and the ball is rolling down.
But i also cry about it and know deeply that this is completely against what was revealed to me.
I feel like a traitor, like the worst lowlife creature, and I thank God for it because this is the string that holds me tight, this is the string that comforts me that for as much as it seems I try to forget Him, He doesn’t forgets me for a second.
This is an unbreakable string it seems, and it’s a revelation by itself which I witness with awe.
Now, I definitely am not qualified for pastoral life, for reasons you mentioned and many others you didn’t. But I do feel, in the moments i’m connected despite the rolling falling, how ferociously I would like to devote my life to God, completely. But, also, away from people. I have tremendous hate for humanity which was rooted in me before our Lord Jesus Christ entered my life. Now, this hate is no longer rooted thanks God, it was indeed turned over to deep love and the dark pit received the holy light, amen, but my hate and separatism is still very present on the surface level to this day, this is who I am as a person on earth and my falling state definitely doesn’t help.
So, my question, regarding all of this, what are your thoughts on monastic life? Is this even a thing for a protestant? I am soon 35 by the way and single.
Love the brutal honesty.
That guy eating the apple was Pierre Poilievre. Leader of the Conservation Party and running for Justin Trudeau’s job in Canada
Thank you for this. Im a female no plans to be a pastor. But all these character traits i want to develop for the Lord😢😢
Women are disqualified from pastoring, being deacons or holding any teaching or authority position over men.
Loved the honesty and straightforwardness of this video. I pray for more pastors willing to speak truth like you shared. Not condemnation but the Word of God - it's all there in the Word - you SHOULDN'T be a pastor if you can't read the Word and glean truth from it!
I'm thankful that God's grace can change people. It's when we resist God's grace that we become mired in sin and bad habits.
Yes! This is right on brother. I'm thankful you took this straight from scripture.
Thank you for the video. I have wrestled with a call to ministry for a long time (30 years). The responsibility and standard for teachers/pastors ( mill stone, neck, ocean) frightens me to the point that I hardly think I'm worthy or capable. Pastoring seems like a heavy burden. Thankfully, being called to minister isn't limited to being a pastor. We are all ministers... to love our brother.... just some are better at it than others.
In terms of the “thin skin” qualification: there’s a difference between being hurt by criticism and genuinely taking it to heart and responding in a godly way.
Everything about this video is great and I really appreciate this, as someone who aspires to be an overseer.
Just want to say thank you for this video. Very sobering.
Thank you for the real talk brother
Thank you Pastor Matt
This was well done. And on top of all of these things, the world will get darker until our King comes. Pastors will need to know and understand what the Lord is and will do to effectively guide their flock. A great falling away from the faith is coming and many are not prepared. But so is our King so get ready. Take care.
I am pretty sure that the person that said "If you could do anything else, do that" was Martin Lloyd Jones in Preaching and Preachers. Videos like these are good reminders people like me pursuing the pastorate. Thank you!
This was a great video. It was a great barometer for you to check yourself. I Pastor and I love doing it. I found that the 1st point that you is one that I am a little slack in (no pun intended). Got to grow more in that area of my life.
This is so very good, Matthew. Thank you.
Great advise brother!
Good stuff! Thanks for your open and forthright heart.
I loved the video. It's almost as if he was talking about someone in the so-called polemics ministry without mentioning names.
Those are good points that need to be said the hard way. So young Christians can understand. I was in my 20's thinking I could be a pastor. After seeing myself and seeing everything that's involved in it, I realized I do not have the gift of being a pastor. The desire of it isn't enough. If I would have done it I would have just failed. Plenty of other good ways to serve the Lord.
This is really good advice to keep unqualified men out of the ministry. Ministry is not something men should enter into lightly. Like it says in 1 Tim 5:22, that pastors should not lay hands on anyone suddenly, but should faithfully and wisely make choice of fit persons to serve in this office of the church (BCP). Maybe you did not have time to address this in the video, but I wanted to hear what forms and degrees of sin and imperfection are not disqualifying, since all pastors struggle with some degree of every sin you made mention of in this video.
Love your videos! Can you please consider making a followup to this where you go over the best jobs/positions for people who would like to be pastors, but for whatever reason can’t/won’t be? Id appreciate that!
Where in The New Testament do we find the one-man-show called a ‘pastor’ who stands elevated once or twice a week telling the ‘mute sheep’ sitting in the pews what God’s Word says and means…..and performs this ‘ministry’ in a building called a ‘church’ which is funded by the ‘mute sheep’ via their old testament ‘tithes’ backed up with what the ‘pastor’ tells them is said in Malachi to the Hebrew priests, but is also a requirement of the New Testament Saints?
A great book to read which covers the topic in a pointed way is, "Dear Preacher, Please Quit", by Dr. Roy Branson published by Landmark Publications in Lancaster, California. He's written several other books dealing with the ministry and churches.
Radio Bible Class published a book a number of years ago called, "Person to Pastor", which is full of gems from the church member 's perspective. A good read for anyone in ministry.
One can still be a brother/sister in Christ.
I agree with 99 % of what you said, but when you brought money as a reason for ministry, I had to say something. It isn't about what the congregation is paying one to do, it's about obeying the call of God, loving the Word, and the ministry, not about remuneration. I don't preach because the church pays me, that's incidental because I would do it for free. To qualify my statement, I am a retiree who has been blessed, so I don't need the money, but I accept their blessing to me so that the congregation will be blessed for their generosity.
Yeah, that's a tricky one that can quickly lead to compromising what God wants. Balancing politics and God's Word is easier said than done.
FYI: If you hang a flag, the union should be in the upper left. Your flag is backwards. Thanks. Love your content . . .
Excellent video. Thanks for sharing this video on TH-cam.
Very good video! Thank you for posting.
Excellent video.
Sadly, we must add that a pastor must be converted.
Too many unconverted clergy "leading" churches these days.
I think it's also important to consider that there are slumps and seasons that are not typical of who you are over time. Illness and depression etc are what I have in mind. I am also a Presbyterian. Would be great to hear the perspective of this video but aimed at ruling elders.
I think my main fault is paperwork. Assignments and having the motivation to do "the homework." Many of the other things that you mentioned I am good on, but meeting those deadlines would be my main issue. I am still currently discerning this area of my life, but as things currently stand I'm starting to think that God can use me elsewhere for ministry. I am very thankful for this video. God bless you pastor.
Lord Jesus called Himself God
Matthew 7:22-23
22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
Mark 2:28
28 Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.”
Luke 6:46
46 “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?
Revelation 22:13
13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” (in Isaiah 41:4 God Almighty called Himself "The First and The Last".)
Revelation 1:17-18
17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. 18 I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. (God calls Himself the First and the Last in Old Testament Isaiah 41:4, 44;6, 48:12.)
Matthew 12:8
8 For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”(Sabbath day is God' Deuteronomy 5:14)
John 8:58
58 Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.” (God's name is "I AM" Exodus 3:14)
John 10:29-30
29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30 I and My Father are one.”
Matthew 28:19
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
(Disciples calling Jesus God in the GOSPELS and some letters)
John 20:28
28 And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!”
Matthew 13:51
51 Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?”
They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.”
Matthew 14:28
28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”
Titus 2:13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. (( In Ezra 5:8, Nehemiah 8:6 & Daniel 2:45 YHWH (God) is called Great God. In Titus 2:13 Lord Jesus Christ is called Great God which means Lord Jesus is Great God.))
2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained like precious faith with us by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ
1 John 5:20
20 And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.
Philippians 2:5:11
5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
John 1:1&14
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God& John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
(God forgives sins in old testament, Jesus can also forgive sins)
Mark 2:5-7
5 When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” 6 And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
John 14:11
11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves.
God The Father called Lord Jesus Christ God
Hebrews 1:8 But to the Son He says:
“Your throne, O God, is forever and ever;
A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. (See verses 10-12 and compare it with Pslam 102:25-27)
(Lastly Old Testament said the Messiah will be God)Isaiah 9:6
6 For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor,
Mighty God,
Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace.
Psalm 110:1
110 The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at My right hand,
Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.”
Also way, truth, life is one of 99 names, Jesus called Himself The Way, The Truth, The Life in John 14:6
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Jesus said He is the Son of God. John 3:16-18
16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 17:1-3
17 Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, 2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.
John 9:35-38
35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He had found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?"
36 He answered and said, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?”
37 And Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him and it is He who is talking with you.”
38 Then he said, “Lord, I believe!” And he worshiped Him.
Mark 14:61-62
61 But He kept silent and answered nothing.
Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”
62 Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.”
Matthew 26:63-64
63 But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest answered and said to Him, “I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!”
64 Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
Matthew 16:15-17
15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.
Luke 22:70
70 Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?”
So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.”
John 5:23
23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.
John 6:67-69
67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?”
68 But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
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GOD calling Jesus His Son
Mark 1:9-11
9 It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. 11 Then a voice came from heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Mark 9:7
7 And a cloud came and overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!”
Matthew 3:17
17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Luke 3:22 And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.”
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Even angel Gabriel called Lord Jesus Son of God
Luke 1:32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.
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His followers calling Him son of God
Matthew 16:15-17
15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 14:32-33
32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.
33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”
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Martha calls Lord Jesus Son of God
John 11:23-27
23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
24 Martha said to Him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
27 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
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I appreciate this video
Good word Brother Matthew
I agreed without reservation with everything you said. I would like to suggest a couple other filters to keep the wrong men out of pastoral ministry.
1. If you follow Matthew's TH-cam page this probably this probably does not apply to you. You should not go into pastoral ministry if you cannot understand the value of seminary training or cannot see what can be learned from the historic confessions or from sound Christian theologians of the past. If you do not believe scripture in both inerrant and inspired you are probably not even a Christian.
2. If you are not a "people person" willing to know all of the adult members of your congregation. You must be willing and able speak to new members and visitors. I have always thought that the two most valued personality traits of a pastor's wife is to be genial but sober minded. That is equally important for a pastor.
3. You will greatly hinder a church if you are a control freak. The Elders are responsible for the spiritual health of the church but should be willing to turn over temporal responsibilities to faithful congregants who have skills, knowledge and time that you do not. If your ego or insecurities lead you to micromanage people you will probably fail as a pastor.
4. You should be satisfied with the congregation God gives you. You should not be a pastor if you have an overwhelming desire to fill seats or attract a certain type of congregant as opposed to others.
So the local congregation has no say in who occupies the pulpit?
Do you see yourself ever releasing “Souls” on Logos? I’d love to have it in that format!
We need more evangelists in this world, not less. No man is perfect. If you have the talent to preach, then do it. Stop putting men on pedestals.
Also, pastor is not a preacher, it’s the role of an elder or overseer. Pastors are the leaders of a congregation. These terms are often confused but they are different in the Bible. Timothy is an evangelist but is a young man, ie not a pastor (1 Tim 4:12, 2 Tim 4:1-5).
Good morning,
I heard of a Pastor, whose wife Wrote his Sermons. He was Too lazy. 😮
She did sadly Divorce him, but for other reasons as well!
Sad reflection on Godly People 😵😮😢
Spurgeon said if you can do anything else...
I think its from his letters to his students.
Yes. "Lectures to My Students". One quote I think I remember more or less right, from long ago, was "If you could be satisfied being a greengrocer, a lawyer, or a king [instead of being a pastor], do it!".
:--}>
Great video and nicely delivered. All come down to discipline and self control in some capacity. Question, pastor, what do you think about being very overweight? In the past I have had trouble respecting and getting past pastors who are very overweight because it is hard for me to take them seriously for some reason, and I guess that reason is that they clearly don’t have self control. Am I wrong to have this take or should I be more charitable? Im not talking about 20-30 lbs overweight with a bit of a gut(most of us are 15-20 pounds above our “fighting weight” id guess) but im talking 50+ pounds/it’s the first thing you notice when they walk into a room.
Don't be anything unless God has commanded you to be. There's no "feeling called to the ministry"
Unfortunately, some people pursue pastoral ministry without a sound, grounded biblical basis for their calling.
Good video!
I would just say somebody who isn’t a pastor does not necessarily mean that they work, as you say, as a mall cop or work in Wendy’s or Walmart.
Pastor Matt should have skipped the Walmart or Wendy's comment. He came off as something of an elitist with that one.
@@AJMacDonaldJr Yup. Basically went against some of the points he mentioned here.
I’m a pastor and in my congregation there are members who work in Walmart. Does that make me better than them? Obviously not.
Agreed. Came off pretty snobbish.
I think that was a bit of a Freudian slip revealing his opinion of where some of these bad pastors deserve to be working. He would most likely clarify his statement if confronted. He's probably thinking of Joel Osteen, Andy Stanley, etc... pastors that make others pull their hair out in frustration.
You forgot #1:
"If you're a chick."
Also, Canadian Apple Politician Guy was spectacular!
My biggest complaint of pastors has to do with their willingness to go places where it takes real courage to go and challenge people because they’re afraid that too many might be offended and leave, giving could suffer and thereby the pastor’s job would be in jeopardy and his pension.
There’s good reason to believe that there are a lot of people just “playing church“ even in reformed congregations, I regret to say, and they need to be rooted out and encouraged to leave through some tough messages for their own good. Maybe there’s a reason why the late D. James Kennedy used to sometimes mention during a message how he would “hate to be handcuffed to some of the people in the congregation when they die.“
And then sometimes they reference people with unsound theology during their sermons without apparently having done some research on them, guys like CS Lewis, who believed in purgatory and Adrian Rogers, who hated reformed theology, in other words, the real gospel.
An example would be last Sunday when my pastor mentioned the new book by Rosaria Butterfield. He should’ve added some troubling things about her that maybe he doesn’t know or hasn’t taken that time to research, such as her friendship and approval of Russell Moore.
Genuine question I am a young man who is a slacker and is struggling with self control. I understand I am not fit or even qualified to be a Pastor. But can’t God through prayer and the sanctification of the Holy Spirit make me more Holy or should I just throw away the idea or getting into ministry
What if you are overweight from years of sin before, and have been fighting and working on it, growing in progress of discipline of health and fitness is this a disqualifier? Is this considered not managing your health, despite it being the past and being mortified and progress being shown now?
Yet you meet the other qualifications, is that truly a disqualifier quantified as not self-controlled? Curious as I've been a pastoral intern for near 2 years and studying Theology at RBC and am currently a deacon. Thanks!
Pastors should be fit men. Too many obese slobs telling us how to live.
While I wouldn't mind becoming part of a Lay team, or even an Elder, I would not want to become a Pastor... I'd rather be part of the 'behind the scenes' team.
I'd like to focus on the words 'pastor' and 'elder'. Paul talks of 'elders'. This is not the modern post-reformation concept of the 'pastor', or 'minister'. The one man show running the church like an organization or military unit (from platoon to company size: Lieutenant to Captain rank).
The 'elders' are the overseers, those with responsibility for the conduct and teaching of the church and its mutual pastoral care. Their chief job would be in terms of 1 Cor 12-14 to conduct an orderly assembly where all gifts could be exercised in the edification or building up of one-another. There is precious little 'one-anothering' in modern church assemblies (services as they've come to be known as we mimic pagan temple service). There is also very little true eldership in Titus' terms and with the kind, wise, care that should flow. The church assembly has been reduced to spectatoring at a performance by the paid guy and the music band or ensemble. This reduces the church to a passive silent majority with no experience or skill in public communication of the Faith, and a highly exercised spiritual 'expert' doing the church role for everyone. This is a very poor result compared to Paul's expectation of what a gathering of Christians should be.
For example, a 'sermon' is probably the poorest method of developmental instruction of adults. To be successful we probably need several shorter contributions by gifted people, with discussion and 'searching the word' together and talking it over.
Titus rules out a both a single or even group of paid staff as the elders and certainly rules out young people. In fact, Hebrews suggests that almost everyone should mature to being able to teach in some way. The Christian assembly is not a one-man ( or -woman) show with that person as the chief authority of the gathering.
If you can find them, check out Darryl Erkel's articles on church life.
Actually all of us are in the ministry and the people business...24/7.
If I was qualified to be a pastor...I still wouldn't want to be one. I only wanted to be a pastor when I was one year old in the Lord...53 years ago.
Also, disqualified if you are not a man (I am also convinced by Scripture this includes a married man with children Titus 1:6, 1 Timothy 3:1-4).
It is a small group of people that should become ordained, but don't Presbyterians ordain women?
Yes, there are more flavors of Presbyterians than you can find flavors at the ice cream shop. He doesn't appear to be a liberal. The Betsy Ross flag screams that.
Only Apostate and Unbelieving ones who are not Fit to be called Presbyterian and have Disqualified themselves as places of Teaching and Worship!
The OPC most Certainly *does not* ordain women, Nor does the Evangelical Connexion! Yet OPC is Presbyterian, and Evangelical Connexion is sort of Half Way between Reformed Episcopal and Anglo-Presbyterian, leaning more towards Anglo-Presbyterian as they elect Pastors and Leaders via Presbytery and do not Recognize Apostate Canterbury nor its False Authority.
In fact, as a former member of the Cult of England, I go so far as to say that any "church", such the Liberal false churches within part of its ranks giving the EPC a bad name , Regardless of its Denomination, that ordains a woman to preach (for 1st Corinthians Chapter 14 and 1st Timothy Chapter 2 are clear as daylight that women are to be *Silent* in the Church! women are *not* to Speak, unless they are joining in, which they must do, with Congregational Hymns, Congregational Prayers (by the way: as 9marks makes very clear, any church that forbids a woman to Pray or Worship in any way is also a false church, and is most likely an accursed Wesleyan-Voodoo "pentecostal" Satanic Cult!), Congregational Psalmody, or their Communion Vows! otherwise *Silence* , (this also goes for any man in the pews while the Pastor is preaching, so as he is not interrupted and so the church is not dragged into Disarray!) , women are not even to be Lay Readers (only the Man may read the Holy Written word of God inside of the Church! for he is teaching as he does so!), so they are most certainly are *Not* to Preach!) , automatically, at that *very Second* becomes *Apostate and Ichabod* and should be immediately *Excommunicated* as a false church and as a Cult! so their *Willful Rebellion against God* does not, as the *Gangrene* that it is, Infect the Entire Denomination!
Egalitarianism is Heresy! the Church must remain Patriarchal, as the Holy written word of God commands!
The PCA and OPC don't ordain women. Individual congregation of the EPC do not ordain women, but others do. I could attend any of those three, especially the 1st two.
@@timothykeith1367 Thank you deeply for the Extra Information, it seems I got the PCA and the more Liberal Elements of the EPC mixed up, Please forgive me for that mistake, I need to edit the Post.
Love and Peace.
@@timothykeith1367 Understood, thank you for the information.
Disciplined! Not someone that puts other things before shepherding the flock, or someone that doesnt have time to study and do the hard work of preparing. The pastor at our previous church would steal (he called it borrowing to me) large chunks of other pastor sermons and preached them as his own with no citation. When brought to his attention by myself and 2 other elders, he was humble and repentive or so it seemed. He then used the pulpit to bully. This went on for 2 years before we ended up leaving. Very sad and painful for our families. Too busy building your own kingdom to put in the time, do something else
Spurgeon I believe
Leftwinged or rightwinged, I’ve heard it from both sides. I try to be a good peacemaker, but I will see to ate THE point decently. The only one I called down were those who said the Spencer Congregation Church was struck with lightning and deserved to burn down. Temper? I channel it to better channels.
Agreed! 🤟
Doctrine of Vocation
I went to seminary with men who saw and were encouraged to see ministry as a career. The training I got was valuable but in the end I left. I hear folks talking about a 'calling ' and to this day have no clear idea what the word is supposed to mean. It sounds like part of some magic incantation. No thanks.
Pastor Mathew not every man who is not a good candidate for becoming a pastor needs to settle for working at wal mart, fast food, security guard...etc Don't think more highly of yourself than you should. Many christian men who do not become pastors manage to have good careers in meaningful professions where they are able to minister to people who otherwise might never hear the fullness of the Gospel. 🙏🕊️✝️
Scripture Clearly specify th qualifications that are needed to be a Pastor and he is not thinking highly of himself. Thats why it is severely important you learn from the Holy Spirit and Grow in the Word daily so that once Christ grows you to maturity, you will become quilified to minister his word. You cannot teach or minister if your a baby point blank period. Thats why there is so much false professing christians whos misleading the mass and why many like you think its fine to deal with the word half-heartedly and think they are saved not realizing there are being carried by their own delision in thinking there own way is right when its not.
He never alluded to that
He's talking about pounds addicts
He didn’t say anything like what you’re saying
Agreed 🙏✝️🔥🕊️💖🎺
That sage, secure Canadian Politician .. calmly eating his apple in the face of a devious reporter .. is Pierre Polievre, House Opposition Leader .. thankfully, our next Prime Minister .. kind, fair, upright in so many ways. Sadly not a Believer.
Knowing how the typical pastor, especially in a reformed church, is overwhelmed with duties and responsibilities, how in the world does Matt have time to do all these videos, especially assuming he’s got children and a wife at home. Is something or someone being neglected, perhaps? Not to be critical or anything.
Go work at wendys is like Go shepherd sheep thats how the pharisees saw shepherds during the time of our Lord. They even condescended to Peter when they heard him preaching in the book of Acts. "arent these men GALILEANS?" GOD can use everyone. When he choses someone as an instrument all the pastoral qualities will gradually come out of them not because of their inherent traits but because the Grace of GOd enables them to act accordingly though not perfectly. i.e Peter, David etc.
If your reformed them God predetermined the pastor
If you don’t divide the word! If you don’t believe the Mystery!If you don’t know the difference between prophecy and mystery!And if you don’t have the boldness to share this truth!👍👏😊
"Reformed" means Calvinist. Just say it.
Im not reformed or Calvinist but i would disagree in general
1. Must be proactive (not a slacker)
2. Must not have thin skin (take criticism well)
3. Must not be an online troll
4. Must be free of porn
I likened this video to a good old fashioned spanking and I mean that in a good way. I definitely appreciated this video thank you Pastor Matt
I don't think most of your online audience in all honesty would work in wallmart or Wendy's or security mall when they cannot be pastors.They have good intellect to do that. Don't put that as an alternative. Although they are jobs. I am an IT professional, teacher, interpreter at times and writer and English is my second Language.I think You should know that Your content is more for intellectual minds thn simple people. Thats my opinion. Otherwise I like Your content. GBY. Tomas
This is a good video minus the unintended condescending verbiage. I would have liked the message to have a softer tone so that the persons who don’t make good pastor candidates can walk awhile inspired to go on and do great things in another field, instead of the repetitive down-talk.
Good idea for a video and the points are definitely valid. Still, word choice leaves much to be desired (not the whole thing, but yes in some areas).
“Go work at Wendy’s” smh 🤦♂️
I hear you. Thanks for that.
2. Thin-skinned. 7:40