And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake. Be at peace among yourselves. (1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13 NKJV)
God has blessed us with three important relationships in the local church—a pastors, fellow believers of like precious faith, and the move of the Holy Ghost in our midst. How should we relate to our pastors?
First, you recognize them as called and anointed of God to equip you for service. God promises to give His people pastors that will feed them with knowledge and understanding.
Second, you esteem them highly because of the important role they play in the body of Christ. Every believer needs a pastor! The greatest respect you can give a pastor is to follow his example and put into practice his teachings. Nothing gives a pastor greater joy than to see his/her children walking in truth.
Finally, we are to be at peace with the body. When you follow the pastor’s vision from God (what he sees in the future) and the mission (what we do to get there) that he establishes for the local church there will be a flow of God’s Spirit, harmony and peace in the church. That is music to a pasor’s ears!
How we relate and cooperate with our pastor(s) is important to our spiritual progress and will determine if we finish strong. Are you cooperating with your pastor?
Finish Strong! 