Servants of the Lord—Servants in the Church!

“But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless.” 1 Tim. 3:10.

They are to serve in the church—not dominate and demand that others serve them. They are to hold the mystery of faith with a pure conscience, and they must rule their own children and house well.

In the past, people liked to be called “Rabbi, Rabbi,” but these days they would rather be called “Pastor, Pastor,” a title that makes them feel a head taller than their fellow brothers. Completing a class at some sort of religious institution authorizes them to use this highly coveted title.

But what do the Scriptures say? “But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren.” It’s as if He had said, “Do not be called ‘Pastor.’”

The church, which is Christ’s body, consists of many members. All of these members have their own unique characteristics and must be treated individually, each in their own way. It is not enough to just hold a sermon now and then for the whole congregation. Each individual must be exhorted, guided, borne, and helped over and through difficulties. Paul exhorted each one with tears. On those members of the body who seem to be less honorable, we are to bestow greater honor, so that there is equality.

Yet, what usually happens nowadays? The members who have the most earthly possessions, who have the most worldly wisdom (which is earthly, sensual, and demonic), and who are in the highest worldly positions are the members who are honored and appreciated more than the poor wretches who are just regarded as bodies who can fill the pews, but who will never be esteemed as valuable people; individuals that the Lord can form into a vessel of honor—perhaps a vessel more valuable than the rich men of this world. “But you have dishonored the poor man. Do not the rich oppress you and drag you into the courts?” Jas. 2:6. “But if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors.” Jas. 2:9. Then it is not surprising that every vestige of freedom disappears.

The primary task of a servant in the church is to help those who are oppressed, to break the yoke of bondage, and to set the captives free. To do that, he must know how each individual is doing. This ministry requires humility, impartiality, and understanding about the needs and desires of each individual. Someone who has received such understanding and such a ministry considers the title “Pastor, Pastor” to be repulsive—an encumbrance he would rather be without.

Peter, do you love Me?—Yes, Lord.—Feed My lambs. Peter, do you love Me?— Yes, Lord.—Tend My sheep. Peter, do you love Me?—Yes, Lord, You know I love You.—Feed My sheep.

Because Peter loved Christ, his ministry increased more and more; but there was one condition: Everything he did had to be done out of a love for Christ. The lambs had to be fed, the sheep tended, and then fed. They were not all to be dealt with in the same way.

Only through love can you discover how to deal with each individual. Self-love only focuses on people who have the most money or who are the most highly esteemed. In order to become someone great and to get ahead, it is necessary to be called “Pastor, Pastor,” just as they were formerly called “Rabbi, Rabbi.”

The church has next to no use for such “rabbis.” On the other hand, these “rabbis” desperately need the church.

When we are dealing with a person who is to be instructed in the knowledge of God, we have to have a goal in mind. We must never lose sight of the goal, even in the midst of struggles and difficulties. Everything that exalts itself against the knowledge of God must be broken down. Usually this work requires the cunning of a serpent and the innocence of a dove. However, if eternal bonds of love have been formed, a person can endure being broken down, especially if the servant has understood to offer them something better instead.