https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AX2cpl4L5os
The question of who is qualified to preach in the pulpit is a controversial and sensitive one. Some people may argue that anyone who has a sincere desire to share the gospel and a gift of communication can preach, regardless of their education, experience, or ordination. Others may insist that only those who have been formally trained, examined, and approved by a recognised church authority can preach, based on their interpretation of biblical passages such as 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. However, both of these positions may be too extreme and miss the point of what preaching is and why it matters.
Preaching is not just a matter of delivering information or expressing opinions. It is a sacred act of proclaiming God's word to God's people, with the aim of edifying, instructing, exhorting, and transforming them by the power of the Holy Spirit. Preaching requires not only knowledge and skill, but also character and calling. Therefore, those who preach should be qualified in four aspects: doctrinal, moral, spiritual, and practical.
Doctrinal qualification means that the preacher should have a sound understanding of the core doctrines of the Christian faith and be able to communicate them clearly and faithfully. The preacher should also be able to discern and refute false teachings that may confuse or mislead the congregation. The preacher should be committed to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture as the basis of preaching.
Moral qualification means that the preacher should have a godly character and a good reputation. The preacher should exhibit the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and avoid the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). The preacher should also be above reproach in their personal and public life, avoiding any scandal or compromise that may damage their credibility or dishonour God's name. There are many people in the world who claim to have the authority and the knowledge to teach others about various topics, such as religion, politics, health, or science. However, not all of them have the proper qualifications or credentials to back up their claims. These people are often called "preachers" or "gurus", and they can be very persuasive and influential, especially to those who are looking for guidance or answers. However, they can also be very dangerous and misleading, as they may spread false or harmful information, exploit their followers, or cause conflicts and divisions among different groups. Therefore, it is important to be critical and cautious when listening to those who preach without qualifications, and to verify their sources and motives before accepting their teachings.
Spiritual qualification means that the preacher should have a genuine relationship with God and a dependence on His grace. The preacher should be a person of prayer, worship, and obedience. The preacher should also be humble, teachable, and accountable to God and others. The preacher should seek to grow in their faith and holiness, and to model what they preach. Practical qualification means that the preacher should have a clear sense of calling and a proven ability to preach. The preacher should have a passion for God's glory and people's salvation. The preacher should also have a gift of communication that can engage, persuade, and inspire the audience. The preacher should be able to prepare and deliver sermons that are biblical, relevant, coherent, and applicable.
These four qualifications are not meant to be rigid or exclusive criteria, but rather general and inclusive guidelines. They are not meant to discourage or disqualify anyone who has a genuine desire to preach, but rather to encourage and equip them to do so more effectively and faithfully. They are also not meant to create a hierarchy or elitism among preachers, but rather to foster a unity and diversity among them. Ultimately, the qualification to preach comes from God, who calls, gifts, and empowers those who He chooses for His purposes. That is not what I see from you at all.
Blessings
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