Totoong Mensahe

Salamat Lord God sa Saging kahit papano makakain

We are no longer bound to sin! Instead, we have chosen to serve a living God, a Heavenly Father who loves us beyond our understanding. When we surrender our will to God, we see the ministry He has designed us to complete. God blesses us with talents and spiritual gifts we use to bring others to know Him. We devote our lives and vow to use our mind, body, and soul to complete work for the Lord.

Father, forgive us for becoming envious of our brothers and sisters in Christ. We will remain focused on you and Your will for our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Lord, as I open Your word, I ask that You would speak to me through it. Please use the words on these pages to grow me in my knowledge of You and my love for You. Give me a hunger for Your word so that I may continue to receive it and be strengthened as You apply it to my life. In Jesus’ name, amen

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Our hearts were perfectly designed to love and obey God yet we wander and become lost in the temptation of a sinful, imperfect world. When we accept Christ into our hearts, we are made new. We are filled with the Holy Spirit and our focus is no longer directed toward sin, but to a relationship with God. Our lives are different. The way we treat each other becomes different. When unbelievers see this, we are given an opportunity to witness so they too may come to know the Lord.

And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.

Luke 12:22

We have many daily challenges that cause us to worry. Financial burdens, physical health, and other personal affairs cause anxiety and fear. Jesus reassures the disciples that they do not have to worry about where they will rest or what clothes they will wear because God will be present to provide for them as needed. We can apply this knowledge to our concerns as well. God is present and will provide for us physically and spiritually. Even when things are not okay, His presence alone grants us peace to make it through each life event.

Blessed Sunday kapatid
Pastor Nash

Responsibilities of Church Members to their Pastor: A Biblical Perspective

The Bible emphasizes a reciprocal relationship between pastors and church members, highlighting the importance of mutual respect, support, and accountability. While pastors have a clear mandate to shepherd, teach, and protect the flock, church members also bear significant responsibilities towards their spiritual leaders. This essay will explore these responsibilities as outlined in Scripture.

Appreciation and Esteem: Recognizing the Pastor's Labor

The foundational responsibility of church members towards their pastor is to appreciate and esteem their labor. This is not simply a matter of politeness but a recognition of the pastor's dedication and sacrifice in serving the church.

- Diligent Labor: The Bible encourages church members to "appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction" (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). [1] This "diligent labor" encompasses not only preaching and teaching but also the countless hours spent in prayer, study, counseling, and administrative tasks.
- High Regard: Church members are further instructed to "esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake" (1 Thessalonians 5:13). [1] This esteem goes beyond mere appreciation and involves holding the pastor in high regard for the vital role they play in the church's spiritual well-being.

Obedience and Submission: Following God-Ordained Leadership

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of obedience and submission to the pastor's leadership, recognizing their God-given authority within the church. This does not imply blind obedience but rather a willingness to follow the pastor's guidance as long as it aligns with Scripture.

- Accountable Leadership: Hebrews 13:17 instructs church members to "obey them that have rule over you, and submit yourselves unto them; for they watch over your souls, as they that must give an account." [1][2] This verse highlights the pastor's accountability to God for the spiritual well-being of the flock, emphasizing the importance of supporting their leadership.
- Joyful Service: The same verse also emphasizes that obedience and submission should enable the pastor to "do it with joy and not with grief." [1][2] A cooperative and supportive church community can make the pastor's ministry a joy, while resistance and rebellion can lead to discouragement and frustration.
- Scriptural Guidance: It's crucial to remember that obedience is not blind. Church members should submit to their pastor's leadership only when it aligns with the teachings of Scripture. If a pastor deviates from biblical principles, church members have a responsibility to address these concerns through prayer, respectful dialogue, and, if necessary, seeking guidance from other mature believers.

Support and Encouragement: Meeting the Pastor's Needs

Church members are called to support and encourage their pastor, recognizing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This support can take various forms, including financial provision, prayer, and acts of kindness.

- Financial Provision: The Bible acknowledges the pastor's right to receive financial support from the church. 1 Timothy 5:17-18 states, "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, 'Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,' and 'The worker deserves his wages.'" [1][2] This verse emphasizes the importance of providing for the pastor's material needs so they can focus on ministry without financial burdens.
- Prayerful Support: Pastors face unique spiritual battles and challenges, making prayer a vital form of support. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 urges believers to "make supplication, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, in all godliness and dignity." [2] Praying for the pastor's protection, wisdom, and strength is a powerful way to show love and support.
- Acts of Kindness: Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in encouraging a pastor. Sending a card, offering a meal, or expressing appreciation for their ministry can make a significant difference in their well-being.

Accountability and Discipline: Upholding Biblical Standards

While pastors are called to be examples of godliness, they are still human and susceptible to sin. Church members have a responsibility to hold their pastor accountable for their conduct and doctrine, ensuring they maintain biblical standards.

- Biblical Standards: 1 Timothy 5:19-20 states, "Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also may be fearful of sinning." [1][2] This verse highlights the importance of addressing serious sin or doctrinal error within the church leadership.
- Restorative Discipline: The goal of accountability is not to punish but to restore. Church members should approach these situations with a spirit of love and compassion, seeking to help the pastor repent and return to a life of obedience.
- Wise Counsel: When addressing concerns about a pastor's conduct or doctrine, church members should seek wise counsel from other mature believers. This can help ensure that accusations are handled fairly and that the pastor is given the opportunity to respond and repent.

Conclusion: A Partnership in Ministry

The responsibilities of church members to their pastor are not optional but are integral to the health and growth of the church. By appreciating, esteeming, obeying, supporting, and holding their pastor accountable, church members can create a supportive and encouraging environment that enables the pastor to fulfill their calling effectively. This partnership in ministry allows both pastors and church members to grow in their faith and contribute to the building up of God's kingdom.

The Rights and Responsibilities of a Pastor: A Biblical Perspective

The role of a pastor in a church is multifaceted and carries significant weight, both in terms of responsibility and authority. The Bible provides a clear framework for understanding the rights and responsibilities of this vital position, emphasizing the importance of shepherding the flock, teaching God's Word, and guarding the church from harm.

The Pastor as Shepherd: Care and Protection

The Bible often uses the imagery of a shepherd to describe the role of a pastor. This analogy highlights the pastor's primary responsibility to care for and protect the flock entrusted to them. This responsibility extends beyond physical needs to encompass the spiritual, emotional, and even practical well-being of the congregation. [2]

- Feeding the Flock: Pastors are called to feed their flock with the Word of God through preaching, teaching, and counseling. [1][3][5] This involves diligent study, careful interpretation, and clear application of scripture to the lives of the congregation. [5]
- Guiding and Protecting: Pastors are also responsible for guiding and protecting their flock from spiritual dangers, including false teachings, worldly influences, and internal conflicts. [2][5] They must be vigilant against "savage wolves" who seek to prey on the flock, both from outside and within the church. [5]
- Discipleship and Growth: Pastors are called to equip their members for service and growth in their faith. [3] This includes nurturing spiritual maturity, fostering leadership development, and encouraging active participation in the church's mission.

The Pastor as Leader: Oversight and Authority

While the pastor's role is primarily one of service and care, the Bible also grants them a degree of authority and oversight within the church. This authority is not absolute but is derived from God and is to be exercised with humility and accountability. [4]

- Oversight and Governance: Pastors, along with other elders, are responsible for the oversight and governance of the church. [4] This includes managing finances, overseeing church activities, and making decisions that impact the overall direction of the church.
- Discipline and Accountability: Pastors have the responsibility to discipline members who stray from the faith or engage in unbiblical behavior. [4] This is a delicate and challenging task that requires wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to restoring the erring member.
- Teaching and Interpretation: Pastors have the primary responsibility for teaching and interpreting God's Word to the congregation. [1][2][3] This requires a deep understanding of scripture, a commitment to biblical accuracy, and a gift for communicating God's message effectively.

The Pastor's Personal Life: Example and Integrity

The Bible emphasizes the importance of the pastor's personal life as a reflection of their calling. Their conduct, character, and commitment to God serve as an example for the congregation. [2][5]

- Spiritual Maturity: Pastors are expected to be spiritually mature individuals who have a deep and abiding faith in Jesus Christ. [1][3] They should be known for their prayer life, their love for God's Word, and their commitment to living a life that is pleasing to God.
- Moral Integrity: Pastors are expected to maintain moral integrity in all aspects of their lives. [1][2] They should be above reproach, avoiding any behavior that could compromise their credibility or bring shame upon the church.
- Humility and Service: Pastors are called to be humble servants who prioritize the needs of the flock over their own. [1][2][5] They should be willing to serve, to lead by example, and to put the well-being of the church above their own personal gain.

Conclusion: A Challenging and Rewarding Calling

The role of a pastor is a challenging and demanding one, requiring a deep commitment to God, a love for His people, and a willingness to serve. However, it is also a deeply rewarding calling, offering the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of others and to contribute to the building up of God's church. As we see in the Bible, the pastor's rights and responsibilities are intertwined, with authority serving as a means to fulfill the greater purpose of shepherding, teaching, and protecting the flock.

If we do not find the true hope that God give us in Jesus Christ, we will have no strength to overcome the world.

The church of Jesus Christ was already in God's plan before the creation of the world
(Ephesians 1:4)

Enoch lived by
looking at the second coming of Jesus Christ
(Jude 1:14)

In the History of this earth, Christianity began with Adam and Eve ( Gen 3:15 3:21)

God prepared everything,thus only by Faith we seek God and reveal God's glory through our faith.

Evidence of faith is in the process of character and change of life to become Christlike and so faith is dead without any changes and growth

Ang Dios lang makatabang kanimo
Gani abyan palapit NASA Ginoo.

Fire and brimstone
Means: a punishment by God .

Genesis 19:23-25