“Here, let me show you how to do that.”
Depending on the circumstances, that statement can be taken as either arrogant and demeaning, as when a stranger offers unsolicited advice when you find yourself in a difficult but solvable situation, or as helpful and encouraging, as when an instructor at work teaches you a new skill.
The first situation produces resentment: “I can handle this myself, thank you very much.” The second situation produces appreciation: “Oh, I see!” Why the different responses? Because in the first situation, the person offering the advice gives no proof of his expertise and no one has authorized him to help you. But in the second situation, the expertise of the person offering the advice is known and authorized.
Interestingly, the Bible commands pastors to set themselves up before their congregations as examples; to say, in effect, “Here, let me show you how to do that.”
Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Peter 4:12
In everything set them an example by doing what is good. Titus 2:7
Not only does the Bible command pastors to set themselves up as examples, but we have the “example” of Paul doing that very thing. He explicitly tells believers to follow his example.
Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. Philippians 3:17
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35
But in spite of this clear teaching, over the course of listening to thousands of sermons I have never once heard a pastor say, “Follow my example.”
Why? I think the reason for this hesitancy is false humility, or the fear of coming off as an arrogant and self righteous know-it-all like the first example I mentioned above.
But pastors, you are “authorized” by your call and ordination. And you are “experts.” You have spent years growing in your walk with the Lord, applying God’s truth to your life, studying the Word of God, and ministering to people. So it’s time to set aside this false humility and actually do what the Word of God tells you to do.
So if you’re a pastor struggling with wanting to be a model for others, but not wanting to appear proud and arrogant, here’s a suggestion: in what areas of your ministry do you feel you have experienced God’s particular blessing? Have you found unusual success in counseling? Are you an exceptional communicator? Are you known for your personal piety? Do you enjoy crisis intervention? Do you have exceptional interpersonal skills? Can you organize a church with the precision of a watchmaker? Do you have an outstanding marriage and family life?
I’m not talking about your own appraisal of this skill, but whether or not you are publicly known for it. Whatever your sweet spot in ministry is, take it and make it a model for others to follow. You are an expert in this area. Your church needs you to help it excel in this area too. So say it in public: “Follow my example.”
When you obey the clear teaching of the Word of God in this area, Pastor, your church will thank you for it.
This post first appeared in NewCommandment.org.
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