The Preacher/Evangelist (1) NT Church 2017 – Leaders (8)

About Preachers It is a gift from God – Ephesians 4:8, 11-12 He himself gave some to be…evangelists Those with ability to share God’s word are a gift from Him.

About Preachers A great need – Can we have too many preachers? Hindrances: - Churches fail to preach on this - Preachers hesitate to address it - Discouraged by friends and family - Improper motives for preaching It is needed 2 Timothy 2:2, Luke 10:2, Eph. 4:11

About Preachers Not all are preachers (formally) Yes, all teach in one way or another, but… Not all are evangelists - God placed limitations - Qualities needed - Abilities needed By far the imbalance leans toward a shortage

About Preachers The preacher is not: - the pastor - the church janitor - the member’s errand boy - the “official” representative - running the church

About Preachers He doesn’t need a title (Matthew 23:6-11) His identities describe his work His purpose – to preach and instruct in the word. He preaches to save souls and build up the body.

About Preachers God places great worth on this work (Romans 10:14-15 (Isaiah 52:7) Ephesians 4:11-16 Three NT book dedicated to the work

What is he called? Preacher – an official announcer (a heralder for the king, etc.) Romans 10:14-15 1 Timothy 2:7, Paul a preacher and apostle 2 Peter 2:5, Noah, a preacher of righteousness 2 Timothy 4:2, “preach the word”

What is he called? Evangelist – a proclaimer of the good news The “gospel” Ephesians 4:11 Acts 21:8, Philip the evangelist 2 Timothy 4:5, “do the work of an evangelist”

What is he called? Minister – διάκονος (diakonos), one who serves A preacher is: - A servant of the Lord - A servant to brethren - A servant to all who he can reach

What is he called? Minister – διάκονος (diakonos), one who serves Ephesians 3:7, Paul, a minister 1 Timothy 4:6, a good minister of Jesus Colossians 4:17, “fulfill your ministry” 1 Thessalonians 3:1-2

These are descriptions, not titles What is he called? Teacher – to impart knowledge or give instruction. A preacher is given to imparting God’s word 1 Timothy 4:11, command and teach 1 Corinthians 4:17, Paul taught everywhere the same thing 2 Timothy 2:24, able to teach These are descriptions, not titles

Qualities of a preacher A Christian – he needs to believe to effectively proclaim His word Disciplined – self-control, Galatians 5:23, 2 Peter 1:6

Qualities of a preacher Must not quarrel – 2 Timothy 2:24, one who engages in heated disputes or a fight (cf. James 4:2). A preacher should not be looking for to cause trouble. Defending the truth does not mean you have to be hateful, or enjoy arguing!

Qualities of a preacher Gentle to all – 2 Timothy 2:24, he is diplomatic and tender in dealing with others. Gentleness (meekness) will disarm and help one gain respect Gentle to ALL!

Qualities of a preacher Able to teach – 2 Timothy 2:24, 2:2. To impart information effectively. Preaching is “to storm the will” Not all can effectively preach. Some, even with good intentions, do damage. Such is not necessarily permanent

Qualities of a preacher Patient – 2 Timothy 2:24 One who is long suffering, even when wronged. “Patient when wronged” (NASB) Not resentful and will take the time to work with brethren who are struggling. Realizes people don’t change overnight. The pulpit is not the place for personal grudges or getting even.

Qualities of a preacher Humble – 2 Timothy 2:25-26 One who is meek and does not think too highly of himself. Not arrogant or prideful or unapproachable. Galatians 5:23, 1 Peter 3:15 – gentleness, meekness

Qualities of a preacher Humble – 2 Timothy 2:25-26, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.

Qualities of a preacher Watchful – 2 Timothy 4:5, watchful (sober, alert) in all things. A preacher needs to be aware of what is happening and address it. Preferably before it becomes a problem!

Qualities of a preacher Faithful – 2 Timothy 2:2, worthy of trust. Reliable 1 Corinthians 4:2, Ephesians 6:21 – Tychicus, a faithful minister

Qualities of a preacher A godly attitude – he needs to respect God, His word, his brethren and his work. Cf. Philippians 2:14, do all things without complaining.

Qualities of a preacher Conviction – he believes in what he is doing. He understands the importance of his work and will defend the truth, regardless of the cost. Cf. Proverbs 23:23, 2 Timothy 4:5

Qualities of a preacher NOT necessary to be a preacher That he be married or have children High secular education A dynamic personality Stylish and fashionable Of social status An entertainer Of a certain age

Let us seek one who stands before us who will preach what we need to hear rather than what we want to hear