“Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you.” – Titus 2:15

Scripture reading: 1 Timothy 4:6-16; Titus 2:11-15

This is the toughest verse in Titus. This verse is tough because the very thing that Christians need—the gospel ministry—can also be the thing they disregard. This verse is tough because ministers are disregarded.

Ministers are disregarded when people complain. People complain about preaching—sermons are too long; too deep; not practical enough; sermons are not addressing all the issues people think should be addressed. People complain about the minister’s visiting—he doesn’t visit enough; he is not approachable; he doesn’t mingle enough. People complain about the minister’s time—criticizing how he uses his time. Ministers are also disregarded when they give biblical, sound advice and wisdom, and are subsequently ignored. They are disregarded when they are compared with “celebrity pastors” and conference speakers. Ministers are disregarded when they are expected to have the knowledge, power, and presence of Jesus.

Do you prepare to listen attentively to sermons? Do you pray for the minister’s preparations for preaching? When was the last time you encouraged your pastor? Do you respect his day off? Do you respect his family time? If you need a pastoral visit, have you communicated that to your pastor? Do you appreciate the high calling your pastor has from the Lord Jesus Christ to preach and teach sound doctrine, in season and out of season, to proclaim the treasure of the gospel even though he himself is only a vessel of clay? Maybe you need to change your expectations and love your pastor despite his weaknesses.

Suggestions for prayer

Pray for your pastor’s calling and work—as a husband and father; for his preaching, teaching, visiting, counseling, and meetings. If you have a complaint or grudge against a pastor, pray for a soft heart toward him and opportunity to reconcile. Give thanks for the gospel ministry.

Rev. Todd De Rooy currently serves in Redeemer URC, in Orange City, Iowa. He has served there since being ordained in 2008. It is their earnest prayer that by the grace of God, they would renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.