~ ~
~ ~
(Arthur Pink, "Faithfulness")
"Their speech is filled with flattery." Psalm 5:9
This is the identifying mark of the "hireling,"
the false pastor. He aims at pleasing his hearers, making them feel satisfied
with themselves, ever patting them on the back.
"But he who has My Word--let him speak My Word
faithfully" (Jeremiah 23:28)--no matter how unpalatable it may be to the
flesh, how much of a weariness to those who wish to have their ears tickled
with novelties, or how loud the outcry against it is!
Ministerial faithfulness includes . . .
loyalty to his
Master,
devotion to His
interests,
steadfast adherence
to the preaching of His Word,
dispensing the truth
unto those whose souls are committed to Him,
not mixing it with
his speculations, much less substituting false doctrine.
A far higher motive than the pleasing of his hearers must
actuate and regulate ministerial service.
Faithful preaching will render the minister unpopular, and
will empty churches--not fill them!
"Then you will know the truth--and the truth will set
you free." (John 8:32) Souls are caught fast in the meshes of Satan's
lies--and nothing but the sword of God's truth can cut them free!
"A faithful man--who can find?" (Proverbs 20:6).
Why is this? Because it is the part of fallen human nature to take the line of
least resistance, and choose the path easiest to the flesh. But remember, my
reader, whoever you are, that, "Lying lips are abomination to the
Lord--but those who deal faithfully are His delight." (Proverbs 12:22)
"Be faithful unto death--and I will give you a crown of
life!" (Revelation 2:10)
~ ~
~ ~
