James had a lot to say about Christian
teachers/pastors/leaders in James chapter 3. This chapter should challenge all Christian
workers to make sure they lead according to God's pattern and will. These
leaders (teachers and pastors) will be judged with a stricter justice.
It is time for each Christian worker
to stop, take stock of what you are saying, ensure it is a word from the Lord,
and is theologically sound. If you lead just to receive fame and increase your
following, and do not prepare the day's teaching strictly from God's Word, your
judgment will be greater and more strict.
God's Christian worker is like the bit
in the horse's mouth or the rudder on a ship. Be careful how you lead the
people (the horse and ship) so that the winds of the thoughts of the time do
not slant your teaching to be even slightly skewed from the Word of God. Be
strong in the face of persuasion not to fall victim to the teachings of secular
society and embrace what they say and water down the truth of God. Even though
you are just a small part of the body of Christ, like the tongue, your words
and teachings can cause a raging fire that destroys God’s people and Christ’s
church. You will be held accountable to a stricter judgment.
Be warned of God’s stricter judgment.
Be faithful to God and His Word. Carefully teach and guide His children, His
church. Your reward will be great in heaven. "Press on toward the goal for the
prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:14 [NASB])
