Pastors should practice what they preach.

Young pastors are constantly trying to come up with better techniques for teaching Biblical truth. It’s a natural progression for any young leader to want to grow in their craft. Wanting to improve is not necessarily a bad thing.

I’m no longer a young pastor, but I still subscribe to a dozen podcasts, listen to audio novels and keep a keen eye out for any practical teaching examples that may come my way. I started this practice years ago, I hope I never lose my drive to improve.

Little by little, I believe that I am increasing my ability to introduce the Gospel to unchurched people and share Biblical principles with fellow Christians.

I’ll always be a work in progress.

The other day I watched a sobering video clip by Innovate4Jesus and North Coast Training. In this clip, author and speaker Francis Chan specifically addressed young pastors and their pursuit to improve their craft.

He noted the trend that young pastors often have a strong ability to teach, but their lives are not always displaying what they’re teaching. (I’ve dropped the video clip below this post.)

We will be judged.

Francis’ words immediately brought to mind these words from the book of James.

“Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” (James 3:1)

 This is a reminder that all preachers and teachers will be judged for what we teach and how we teach. Moreover, we’ll be judged on the character and lifestyle in which we lead and whether or not it is connected to what we preach and teach.

Thank you to Pastor Francis for the great reminder to practice what we preach, literally!

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts:

• How can we help our pastors practice what they preach?
• If you’re in ministry, where has your walk faltered?
• What are your greatest areas of struggle, keeping you from practicing what you preach?