How to Determine if a Pastor Truly Serves God
Jesus said, “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” In other words, look at the pastor’s results: are they the fruits of a servant of God?
Check Against God's Word
One of the most important ways to determine if a pastor truly serves God is to check his life, words, and actions against God’s Word, the Bible. If his lifestyle, words, and actions are not aligning with it, then it is likely he is not serving God or has failed in part. False teachers often twist God’s word to their benefit.
Using the Bible as a Guide
The Bible provides us with a template to discern the authenticity of a pastor. For instance, consider the following verses:
Isaiah 50:15 And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord God shall slay thee and call his servants by another name:
These verses highlight the difference between those who are truly called by God and those who are not. They also remind us of the importance of humility and the call to repentance.
Distinguishing True Discipleship
Another way to determine if a preacher is truly from God is to evaluate whether they practice discipleship in line with God's teachings. True discipleship involves surrendering to God, understanding His instructions, and living a life that reflects these teachings.
The Role of Surrender in Discipleship
One of the core principles of true discipleship is simple surrender:
“You are your question, and you are your answer. You are the race and species of children that must become the key to the keyhole in God’s kingdoms of Heaven.”
This surrender is not a one-time act but a continuous process of aligning one’s life with God’s will. True disciples must be willing to be transformed by God's Word and to live according to His purposes.
The Importance of Following God's Guidance
As we delve into the Bible, we find numerous examples and teachings that guide us in how to determine if a pastor is truly serving God. Consider the following verses:
1 Thessalonians 4:15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord:
Matthew 13:13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not and hearing they hear not neither do they understand.
These verses illustrate that the lack of understanding and the inability to see the truth is often a sign of spiritual deafness and blindness. True disciples, on the other hand, are those who are able to grasp the meaning of God’s Word and live according to it.
Embracing Humility and Surrender
Humility and surrender are crucial for true discipleship. Consider the following verse:
Matthew 18:3 And saith, Verily I say unto you:
The kingdom of heaven is the final destination for those who become as little children. This humility, often disregarded by adults, is essential for true discipleship. It represents a willingness to begin anew, to be transformed, and to follow God's guidance without reservation.
Conclusion
By taking a close look at the lifestyle, words, and actions of a pastor, as well as studying God's Word, we can determine if a pastor truly serves God. True discipleship involves surrender and a continuous alignment with God's will, as exemplified by the teachings found in the Bible. Stay vigilant and seek the truth in all things.