1675. Creating an Unsafe Leadership

Creating an Unsafe Leadership

"All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not" (Mat_23:3).

So far as the Pharisees truly represented Moses and his law, they could be followed in safety, but they could not be followed beyond that point.

Some one probably said that Christ was causing friction in the smooth-running and well-oiled machinery of the Jewish religion.

He went so far as to advise men to refuse to follow the works of their leader.

Ministers may well be followed if they follow only Christ. Paul never asked more than this. He wrote to the Corinthians: "Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ" (1Co_11:1).

The Apostle Paul could preface his words by saying, "Even as I please all in all things, not seeking my own profit, but that of the many, that they may be saved" (1Co_10:33, \1911 Bible).

It would be quite a different matter if twentieth century Pharisees were men of the Paul type; if they received their programs from God, and then presented them to the church, saying: "Follow this program, only as it follows Christ."

But Pharisees are unwilling to pursue this method. They want their suggestions followed.

It is the duty of saints to "prove all things; hold fast that which is good" (1Th_5:21).

They must seek to know what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Christ said: "My sheep hear My voice, * * and they follow Me; and a stranger will they not follow" (Joh_10:27, Joh_10:5).

John wrote; "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches" (Rev_2:7).

Another thing must be said–no class of men have any right to demand what they are unwilling to practice.

What right have the Pharisees to demand hard work of strong and stalwart missionaries at a meager support, then demand for a work no harder and a life no stronger a fat and well-fed larder?

We are speaking to our own soul as well as to yours. Shall supporters and contenders for "faith missionaries" refuse to lift a hand until a stated salary is in sight?

May God help us. Let us not ask of others more than we are willing ourselves to do. May our preaching be always self-practiced.

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR