A preacher of the gospel shares in both the spiritual and material benefits within the church community in which they serve. As a general statement, (in American culture) too often Pastors are viewed as superhuman people who only exist to serve the needs of the congregation. Very little thought is given to how the attitudes and actions of church members impact their spiritual, emotional and financial well-being. What is sometimes forgotten is that clergy are people… with the same needs as those in the laity. As result more and more Pastors lament suffering neglect in these areas due to the lack of Biblical reciprocation of care that they extend towards their church family.

Paul was dealing with a similar situation among the Corinth congregation. His two letters (1 & 2 Corinthians) to them reveal issues he was having in this area, to include those who did not respect his God-given authority as an Apostle within the church. In Part 2 of this sermon series, he continues to challenge their unbiblical view of Christian liberty and community care as it relates to a minister of God.

Focus Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:7-14

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The currency of the church to impact the moral thermometer of American culture is in decline. In a similar downward trend, so is the value and respect for Christian ministers within the church. As a general statement, we live in time where Pastors are expected to be CEOs with divine powers like the Holy Spirit as those who can:
· Do all things as we should possess all spiritual gifts and practical skills.

· Discern & interpret all people's feelings and emotions at all times.

· Be everywhere fulfilling all the needs of the congregation.

As a result of these unbiblical expectations, burnout among Pastors is also on the rise, as many are resigning (or being removed) from ministry. Further, serving God’s people can be very difficult at times, as (sometimes) your good can be returned with evil. Your mistakes and shortcomings can be met with unending criticism rather than compassion, patience and understanding. Your adoration for the members, can be returned with contempt and disrespect.

Unfortunately, this is not a new reality for church leaders, as Paul had to endure those who questioned his authority (and his church community rights) as Apostle and minister of the Gospel. In some cases, they objected to him as a person, for they complained about his appearance and public speaking skills. He apparently lacked charisma they longed for, as they grumbled against him (2 Cor 10:10), “…his bodily presence is weak, and his speech is of no account.”

Gifts and talents he did not possess was at times weaponized against him to marginalize his role in the church community. Paul had to remind the church of his ministerial rights as one who was sent by God to shepherd them in faith. In Part 1 of this sermon series, he:

· Reminds them of the Biblical qualification of an Apostle.

· Begins his defense for communal rights as an Apostle.

Sermon Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:1-6

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In Ephesians 2 we learn that God has made his people alive with Christ and is building them together into a holy temple as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. As in any large-scale building project, challenges and discouragements can come that need to be overcome. God speaks to his people in Haggai 2:1-9 when they faced challenges in re-building the physical temple in 520 B.C. These words serve his people today to instruct and encourage them to persevere in faith "toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 3:14

Scripture Reading: Haggai 2:1-9

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