A pastor once received a thought-provoking question from the Lord: “How many of your church members reflect you, let alone Me?” This question shifted his perspective and transformed his ministry approach. He understood that ministry is about representing Christ.
Friend, ministry is raising men after Christ. However, people will learn Christ from the person they see physically (1 Corinthians 11:1). Every pastor should be able to say like Jesus, “If you have seen me, you have seen My Father (John 14:7-9).” How many ministers today can say like Peter and John, “Look on us (Acts 3:4)?”
Sometimes, in a bid to sound humble and to avoid being idolized, ministers often make the mistake of saying things like, “Don’t follow me; follow Christ. Don’t look at me; look at Christ.” As sincere as this statement might seem, it also reveals a faulty understanding of ministry. Ministry is representation (John 5:17-19).
A New Testament minister represents God but does not replace Him (2 Corinthians 3:1-6, Hebrews 5:1-4). If a pastor cannot boldly say, “Do as I do,” he is not fit for ministry. Ministry is “do as I do,” not just “do as I say.” Ministry is representation, not just presentation.
Pastors and spiritual leaders are always under the strictest scrutiny because of the weight of their assignments before God (James 3:1). Ultimately, people will not do what you say; they will do what you do (Acts 1:1). You must not carry a powerful message with a weak life (Romans 1:4, 2 Corinthians 4:10-11, Hebrews 7:16).
As a pastor, if you are not living a holy life personally, your members will keep struggling with sin, even if you constantly teach holiness. Who you are and how you live will rub off on the people (John 6:63). As a Christian, be careful who you sit under. Don’t just follow results; follow Christ-like chearacter.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria