Murray on ministry
Iain D. Campbell points us to an outstanding and brief charge given by Professor John Murray to a new pastor by the name of Brauning. It captures some vital truths for ministers to remember, whether or not we are just setting out. (Note: it is poorly-edited: does no-one at a Seminary have time to proof-read a couple of pages of one of its most illustrious names?)
Murray’s outline is as follows:
A minister’s first duty is that of preaching or teaching the Word. We are to labour in the Word and doctrine. Three counsels follow:
First, do not burden yourself and do not allow others to burden you with other business so that you are deprived of the time and energy necessary to prepare adequately for your preaching and teaching administration.
The second thing I want to impress upon you is that you realize deeply and increasingly, your complete dependence upon the Holy Spirit for understanding of the Word and for the effectual proclamation of it.
Third, I wish to mention, in that precise connection, that you are to think much of the privilege.
A minister’s second duty is that of pastoral care. This is an all important aspect of a minister’s responsibility and privilege. Three further counsels follow:
Shepherd the church of God.
Second, in connection with this very same subject of pastoral care I charge you to be ready always to give an audience to your people.
Now thirdly and finally, I charge you to remember that you are the servant of Christ in this pastoral care which you will exercise.
Fill in the gaps here: it is well worth it.
UPDATE: Martin Downes has produced an edited version, which I will probably steal shortly. In the meantime, read it here. Thanks, Martin.
UPDATE: OK – I stole it.
