ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PASTORS (BY SPURGEON)
“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)
This is a metaphor taken from the action of the priest at the sacrifice. The priest cut up the bullock, and then laid it in its different pieces according to order. Or, as some think, it is taken from the part of the father at the table, when he carves the meat and gives to every child its portion. Old Master Trapp says that “there are some ministers who are only fit to be Gibeonites, and certainly not to be Levites, for they hardly understand the cutting of wood, much less the art of cutting up the sacrifice of God.”
Brethren, it is well so to handle the word as to be able to give rebuke when rebuke is wanted, exhortation when it is needed, and comfort when consolation is required, for otherwise we do mischief. As it is said in the old fable of the simpleton, that he gave to the ass a bone and to the dog hay, so there are some who give wrong exhortations, not because they are wrong in themselves, but because they are wrong in their application.
SERMON ILLUSTRATION (BY SPURGEON)
Spurgeon was a master illustrator. You can use this illustration in your own preaching to describe the wonderful diversity and unity of the church.
Diamonds are not all of one shape; in a natural state the crystals are of various forms, and are further altered in the process of cutting: their colors, too, vary greatly. Each stone has its own peculiar character and consequent value: some are more precious, others less so. So is it with the people of God: they are not all alike; but each has his or her particular character, as diamonds have their color, form, and value.
THANKS FOR READING
Brothers,
We rightly divide the Word by bringing the right tone to every counseling situation. I use 1 Thessalonians 5:14 as a pastoral triage when walking into a difficult situation: “warn those who are idle, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” Keeping that verse in mind reminds me to give warnings to sinners, not comfort; help to the weak, not rebuke; comfort to the discouraged, not just practical help (as if I could solve all of their problems).
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Blessings to your ministry,
Doug H.
Creator of SpurgeonBooks