“Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness” (James 3:1). Being a pastor is not a right. It is a rather terrifying responsibility. Take time every day to reflect upon the fact that you will be judged by Jesus for how you fed and cared for His beloved people.

Whenever a pastor falls, especially one who is famous (or infamous), it affords the church in general and pastors specifically an opportunity to do some serious reflection. I serve as pastor of a local church. I have served on a church staff since I was a 20 year old college sophomore. Twenty seven years later I daily realize how much I still need to grow.

Like so many, I have thought and opined quite a bit about Mark Driscoll and the fallout at Mars Hill Church. I have thought about the many warning signs early on in Driscoll’s ministry that some gave voice to but few heard. I have thought about some of the failures of Mars Hill to hold her leadership accountable. But most recently I have been reflecting on the condition of my own heart.

The following is a bit of my own interior dialogue that I welcome you to listen in on.

1.    Shepherd the flock that God has given you.

“Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly” (1 Peter 5:2). Whatever else a pastor may have time to do he must not allow it to interfere with this most basic duty. This means preaching and teaching, visiting the sick, admonishing the errant, battling wolves, and comforting the wounded. All this takes time and requires personal sacrifices. This is what pastors do. Very few of us can shepherd a local church and lead a movement at the same time.

2.    Do not despise anonymity.

Some of the finest pastors are those whose names most of us won’t know until we get to Heaven. If you are serving in relative anonymity do not envy those pastors who enjoy the lights of fame and influence. There are far worse fates than not being famous.

3.    You are highly replaceable.

Paul referred to himself and his fellow apostles as “jars of clay” (1 Cor 4:7). The term Paul uses refers to the most common of household vessels. These clay pots were typically used to store certain goods of varying value. They were also commonly used for refuse. These vessels were cheap, not especially strong, and replaceable. The church will never need you. When you break or are thrown out the Lord will easily replace you. Carry the gospel well. Feed the flock competently. But never teach God’s people that you are indispensable.

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