How important is it to be under the authority of God’s minister? Our text makes it abundantly clear that the Lord blesses those who submit to the guidance offered by His faithful servants and that they should strive to be under that authority for length of days.

 

The apostle Peter, who was also a pastor, gave instructions to other ministers about their conduct. His godly counsel not only teaches pastors how to live, but also shows parishioners the kind of pastors they should seek to follow. He writes, “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Pet. 5:2-3).

 

Peter then speaks to the congregation, “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders [pastors]. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Pet. 5:5-6).

 

The Lord greatly blessed Joash while he submitted to the godly leadership of Jehoiada. Sadly, when Jehoiada died, Joash turned to ungodly practices and led a worthless life and died a tragic death. My encouragement to you is to find a church that honors God’s Word, with a godly pastor whose preaching and practice glorify the Lord. Remember, “Joash did what was right in the sight of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest” (2 Chron. 24:2). Never underestimate the influence of the man of God.

 

– Pastor Ken Burge Sr.