Let's consider some other ways you can help your pastor be more effective: (1) Understand that it's your pastor's responsibility to enlighten you, not entertain you. Writing to Timothy, Paul says, "Preach the Word...correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction." Encouragement we enjoy; correction and rebuke we must learn to accept. "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." (Hebrews 12:6). Your pastor is God's instrument for your spiritual growth, not for your entertainment. When you don't like the sermon, maybe it's "scratching where the real itch is." Don't resent the messenger; instead review the message in light of God's Word. Emulate the Berean Christians who ". . they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." (Acts 17:11). (2) Talk to—not about—your pastor. If you've an issue, you've a scriptural obligation to talk first to the Lord, then personally to your pastor—and always with love and grace (See Mt 18:15; Ephesians 4:15). Remember, pastors are cut from the same bolt of cloth as you. They forget things, have "off days," make mistakes, and are occasionally insensitive. And a good pastor will receive the truth when it's spoken in love. They'll consider your concerns, admit when they're wrong, and seek to grow by it. On the other hand, talking about your pastor creates strife in the church. Like yeast, it ". . a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump" (1 Corinthians 5:6). Bottom line: ". . Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm." (1 Chronicles 16:22) by talking about them behind their back, and don't give credence to those who do.
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