[26] “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” – Matthew 10:26 (NIV)
One of the most prevalent attacks ministers of the gospel face is the fear of man. Many preachers cannot rebuke congregants that intensely because they have been surrounded by people who hate to hear corrective words from the Bible preached to them. How sad! As a minister, be careful of those you allow into your circle.
When Jesus was sending out His disciples to preach the gospel, one of the things He told them was that they should not be afraid of the people. In other words, they should preach the gospel without the fear of man. He knew that the disciples would be persecuted and hated by the same people they were sent to preach the gospel to because He faced similar persecution. Yet He told them to fear not. Today, this same word goes to you. FEAR NOT WHAT MAN WILL TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR SERMON, DEAR PREACHER. PREACH THE GOSPEL!
Every preacher of the gospel sent from God knows there ought to be preparation before preaching. During the time of preparation, it is what we keep hearing from the Lord that makes up the sermon, not concocted rhymes, quotes and crafted ideas for presentation purposes, even though sometimes these get added in the notes for the sake of the people’s understanding. But usually, there are some things Jesus will reveal to a preacher that will be hard (not necessarily ‘impossible’) for them to say in public. Why? Because of what men will say.
Can I encourage you, dear preacher? Don’t give up ministering because of criticisms, low patronage of your sermon or people leaving the church. No! The Lord who called you will strengthen you. Just stay faithful to God’s commission. He will lift you.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, empower me to preach the gospel boldly to people without fearing what men will say about me. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 315
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