The pastor ought to have two voices: one, for gathering the sheep; and another, for warding off and driving away wolves and thieves. The Scripture supplies him with the means of doing both; for he who is deeply skilled in it will be able both to govern those who are teachable, and to refute the enemies of the truth.
Source: John Calvin on Titus 1:9 “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. ”
A Pastors duties are many, but this is one of the main duties of the shepherd of the flock. To guard and protect first, and then to feed the flock with the word of God.
Not by co-incidence but by (in my opinion) divine appointment, I had the Pleasure to meet Pastor Andrew Groves today, after a quick chat, After he left I quickly wanted to know Pastor Groves beliefs and history – a quick google search turned up this page – and it was the first of a few mutual beliefs that that gel with my beliefs.
I always hesitate to even address a Pastor as ‘Pastor’, when I don’t know their beliefs and mission, for many have self-appointed themselves or corrupted the true ministry of Jesus Christ. But here I see that this Pastor is one of God’s humble servants and is diligent in His ministry and outreach. Good work Pastor Groves in that you are willing to stand in the gap, and be used as God wills, in voice and deeds.
May God take you to an even greater place in His ministry, and His responsibilities.
Thankyou for your time and understanding today Pastor. God Bless.
Kevin Northcott
Thank you Kevin for your kind words. I hope we chat again sometime. Feel free to come along to Maclean Evangelical Church 5:30 p.m. Sunday. God bless. P.S. All my books are happily on the new book shelves!