Minister [Not] Master

Abstract

Sternberg narrows in on his focus in his introduction: “As we consider the public ministry of the church and come to grips seriously with the Scriptural concept of ministry, the bottom line of that word is “servant”… This may not totally mesh with the fact that ministers are often looked to, and spoken of, as spiritual leaders. Even the people of the world look at a minister as a type of leader. To the world, it is a case of either/or; Christ wants us to see it as a case of both/and - both servant and leader, but without acting as, or giving the impression of being, a master. This is not as easy as it sounds. Each of us would have to agree, I am sure, that this can lead to confusion and a certain amount of tension. But really, it all goes back to Paul’s words, doesn’t it? “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” What is the minister’s attitude?”