It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. (Philippians 1:15-18)
Preachers aren’t perfect. As a pastor, I’m ashamed to admit that, but it’s true. Preachers aren’t perfect. I’ve preached sermons to impress people instead of to glorify God. I’ve looked at other pastors as competition instead of coworkers in God’s kingdom. I’ve kept my mouth shut when something needed to be said. Preachers aren’t perfect.
They weren’t perfect in Paul’s day either. That’s what Paul noticed as he looked out at the Christian Church from his chains: “It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.” Sound familiar? Envy. Rivalry. Selfish ambition. Insincere. Preachers aren’t perfect.
So maybe you should just give up on church. Maybe you should turn your back on pastors. Maybe you should go it alone. Many people have. Millions of people have been turning away from Christian churches because of preachers. Are you thinking about leaving too?
Know who loves that? The devil. The devil loves using the faults of preachers to keep people from hearing God’s Word. Why? Because the devil wants you in hell! He wants to cut you off from Jesus.
Instead, look at Paul’s conclusion: “The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached.” God uses sinful pastors to preach salvation in Jesus. Preachers aren’t perfect, but Jesus is! So don’t go to church for the pastor. Find a church that teaches the gospel of Jesus. Then, even when the pastor isn’t perfect, don’t let anything keep you from hearing the gospel. That’s the most important thing: That Christ is preached! Your faith doesn’t depend on any preacher. It depends on Christ.
Dear Lord God, forgive your Christian Church for our envy, rivalry, and selfishness that too often drive people away from you. By your grace, let Christ be preached to us and many others. Amen.
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