LAY PERSONS: SUPPORT YOUR PASTOR

It is difficult being a pastor at this time in Baptist history. Pastors forty and younger have never ministered when this controversy was not an issue.

This editor recently had a conversation with a strong moderate pastor. He has carefully educated his congregation regarding SBC events. It has been painful.

A graduate of Southern Seminary, he had recently heard of Al Mohler’s position on fivepoint Calvinism. He made the following statement: “My people need to know this, but if I tell them, many will accuse me of being the trouble maker, and I did not do anything. Many just want me to ignore it, no matter how nonBaptist SBC leaders act.”

That is sad, but often true. The messenger of the bad news gets the blame when he did not do anything. Lay people, support your pastors. Encourage your pastors to stand in the pulpit and tell the people the truth. Only an informed congregation can make healthy choices.

Lay people, who faithfully give their tithes and offerings need to understand what their money is supporting and have the freedom of supporting alternatives that are truly Baptist in nature and practice.

When others criticize your pastor for displaying convictions and courage, support him; defend him; be there for him. These are difficult days and courage and integrity are needed. Support your pastor when he tells the truth from his heart.

April 1995