Volume 4 Issue 3
The ministry can sometimes seem a scary office to hold. With that in mind, what do you see as the greatest threat to a person’s ministry? That is, what would you say has the most potential danger for the minister?
My answer may surprise you, but after the obvious problems of immorality (which are more rare than people think) the abuse of power seems to me the greatest trap.
Power must always be thought of as a sacred trust. Further, and this is the hard part, it must be distinguished from control. The desire to control others does not minister to the Body. Control is not unto edification!
True power exists as a result of position, expertise, or relationship. As a result, this power should always act to serve, nurture, and assist others. When it is used otherwise, whether as a weapon or as a means of control, it becomes a misuse.
The use of power can grip a minister until he or she becomes hooked on the feeling. It has been noted throughout history the horrible consequences of men drunk on their own egos and perceptions of power.
Approach any authority you may possess in your ministry, either as a pastor, office holder, or just through your time in the pulpit, with humility and caution. We’re all human and subject to error.
Let me share with you this sobering quote from one of our greatest Presidents, Abraham Lincoln:
“No man is good enough to govern another man except by his consent.” Always remember that any power you may hold comes only as those who are under your ministry allow you that power.
“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind” (II Peter 5:2).
