MISPLACED PERSONS
In the wake of wars we find displaced persons. In shopping centers we hear of "misplaced children." Across the spectrum of society we see people who are misplaced. We euphemistically say, "They are out of their water," i.e., like fish on dry land. We see politicians or appointees in offices they are not competent to fill. Some aspire to be actors, who should be in the audience.
Unfortunately we see some misplaced persons in the pulpits of our churches.
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Some are comedians or clowns who mistakenly think that entertaining is preaching. |
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Some are unskilled workers evidently unable to find employment in the job market so they give preaching a try. They perform no better in that occupation than they did in others. Their churches suffer. Preachers are expected to present themselves approved unto God, workmen that need not to be ashamed (II Tim. 2:15). |
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Some are academics who supplement their income while pursuing their first love, which is some field of secular knowledge. Their lack of zeal demonstrates that their heart is not in their secondary job. The point is not about full-time or part-time work, it is about priority. |
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Tragically we sometimes see indolent men, who have no energy or interest in working in the job-market, so they seek a preaching job as the least demanding on their time and energy. They see godliness as a way of gain ( I Tim. 6:5). |
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We have had a few unbelievers who stayed on the church's payroll until they were found out or until they found a convenient time to declare themselves and move along. They re like "hidden rocks" in our harbors (Jude 12). |
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At the present time we see not a few who hold a denominational view of Christianity yet are trying to make a living in a non-denominational church. Of course they are trying to persuade their congregations to embrace their broad-minded point of view. |
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We have a growing number of men who see themselves as "agents of change" who preach among us, while disdaining a church committed to the ancient plan and pattern of New Testament faith and worship. They work ceaselessly to implement changes that have no solid basis in Scripture and can only harm the Lord's family. Such teachers who go beyond the teaching of Christ have not God (II John 9). |
The church of Christ is the kingdom of our Lord on this earth (Matt. 16:18-19). It is his bride (Eph. 5:23-25). It is the most precious, sacred institution of which we can ever hope to be part. I implore elders and leaders of congregations to be careful for the flock of God. Never employ a man just because he presents himself to you as a preacher. Search and find a dedicated servant of God who is ready to spend and be spent for the sake of the his Master (II Cor. 12:15). Carefully interview him as to his faith and loyalty to God's Word. Investigate to be sure he is the man he claims to be.
The welfare of the Lord's church depends on your so doing. Those who fail to do so may well weep bitter tears for their neglect. The church needs no misplaced persons in her pulpits.
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