Considering the Pulpit Masters

As a result of Paul’s discussion of his own ministry, we also learn much about his adversaries in Corinth- the “super-apostles.”  This is important because their errors are found in many pulpits today.  Just as the Corinthian Christians were drawn to the “super-apostles,” many contemporary Christians are prone to follow their progeny.

Paul’s ministry, like Peter’s, was characterized by humility, knowing that this too was due to God’s mercy (2 Cor. 4:1; 1 Peter 5:1-4).  This stands in direct opposition to the self exaltation practiced by the “super-apostles.”  They carried letters of commendation and gloried in their abilities.  Brimming with self-confidence, they thought themselves competent for any task.

Paul boasted not about himself but in God Who chose to use this fragile jar of clay (2 Cor. 4:10-11).  He knew success did not depent upon himself, but upon the power of God.  Therefore, Paul felt no need to rely upon himself, but upon the power of God.  Therefore, Paul felt no need to rely upon half-truths or manipulation in order to further the Gospel.  He taught the truth plainly.  This is rooted in Paul’s convictions that God does not lie and His word can be trusted (v. 13).  The “super-apostles” used Scripture to further their own agenda and maintain their power.  They told the people what they wanted to hear, and not what they needed to hear.  This furthered their popularity and power, lining their pockets with money (2 Cor. 2:17).

They saw success as from the Lord.  They belittled the poor and persecuted Paul.  Paul knew that such affliction showed forth God’s power more clearly.  This has been typical of many great leaders of the church such as Luther, Calvin, Spurgeon, and Edwards.  They suffered from physical and emotional distress, and ecclesiastical failure.

Paul, like Peter, was convinced that a minister was a servant of the congregation, not its lord (2 Cor. 4:5; 1 Peter 5:1-4).  Their power is to build up, not destroy (2 Cor. 13:10).  They exist to serve the congregation.  The “super-apostles” reversed this so the congregation existed to serve them.  They used the people to enlarge their egos and bank account (2 Cor. 12:14).

Our leaders are prone to seek power and wealth.  We are prone to submit to such leaders.  Pastors need to keep the examples of Paul and Peter before them lest they destroy their people.  Lay people must keep the examples of Paul and Peter before them as models for the type of pastors they should seek.  This passage as much to tell us today.

[“The Pulpit Masters” was originally published in the September 1996 issue of Tabletalk Magazine (p. 41) published by Ligonier Ministries.  I had originally entitled it “Attack of the Pulpit Masters” in honor of a Swirling Eddies’ song but the title was deemed too long, and obscure)