Mark DeverDr. Dever had the task of speaking to us in the opening session concerning the “Pastor’s Understanding of His Own Role.”  Immediately, when I heard his topic, I anticipated what he would have to say to us concerning this topic because of his love for church history and his conviction for solid, expository preaching. 

Again, what is below are my notes.  My prayer is that in some small way, you may benefit as did I.

Together for the Gospel
4-26-06 Session #1
Dr. Mark DeverThe Pastor’s Understanding of His Own Role
1 Corinthians 4

There is a striking contrast between real pastors and fake ones.  There are three marks of a real minister:

The minster has a cross centered message (v. 1-7).  We are called as ministers only so long as we give His message to the people.  God’s people have never made God’s Word.  Rather, God’s Word has made God’s people.  In Genesis, God spoke the world into existence out of nothing.  In Genesis as well, God spoke His covenant with Abraham.  In Exodus, God spoke to Moses His commandments.  In Ezekiel, god told his prophet to preach to the dry bones in order to give them life.  In John 1, we are told the the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.  In Romans 10, we are told that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.  Pastor - preach the Word. 

We are mere stewards of His message and a steward, above all, is faithful.  Our conscience being clear is not enough….the Word is the Judge.  No mere human can judge, Chrsit and His Word are our judgement.

Paul tell’s us in verse 5 that we preach God’s Word to be commended by God.  As messengers of God, we are to be esteemed as messengers pointing to Christ and Christ alone. 

What do you have that you did not receive???

The minister has a cross centered life (v. 8-13).  C.J. will discuss much of this in his address on “Watching Your Life and Doctrine.” 

Paul’s life was a bit more humble than the wise Corinthians.  They reigned, he was last.  They were wise, he was a fool for Christ.  They were honored, he was dishonored for Christ.  They were strong, he was weak.  As a pastor, what do I think of myself?

The only way to truly follow Christ is to die, daily, to self-interest.  Real minsters live cross centered lives.

The minister is a cross centered follower (v. 14-21).  Ministers are examples….don’t forget this!   Paul tells the Corinthians in v. 14 that he was writing to warn, not shame them.  This is all on the basis of Acts 18 where he becomes their spiritual father.  The implication that we want to emulate to our churches is, “Trust your leader to live a cross centered life!”

We must lead by example.  We must humble ourselves…it is our duty.  Our congregation is proof of our minsitry because we are their example!

Over the entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 4, Paul displays both humility and confidence.  Humility before God and His throne and confidence in Christ to provide the necessary strength, boldness, mercy, grace, and love to live as an example before his people. 

The cross is the center but praise God it is not the end!  Praise God that Christ lives again!