Pastoral Ministry

Earlier in chapter two he used these metaphors to inspire Timothy: “Think of the soldier, Timothy. Think of the athlete, Timothy. Think of the hard working farmer, Timothy.” Those are Paul’s ministry metaphors, images that inspire labor and courage and perseverance and discipline and self-denial. You can’t read the Pastoral Epistles and come to the conclusion that pastoral ministry is a soft occupation; an “indoor job with no heavy lifting.” No, pastoral ministry is not for the lazy. It is not for the casual. It is not for the indifferent. In fact, it is not just enough not to be lazy. It is not just enough to do your work. The text says, “Do your best.” Exercise the utmost diligence and do it persistently.

-Jeff Purswell