30/07/2023
If the preaching of the gospel is the only sovereign, effectual means appointed by God for the regeneration and renovation of men's natures and lives, it is vain to expect that either of them will be wrought in such a way as to restore the beauty and glory of religion in the world, unless an able ministry is provided to teach the people.
For the truth to be kept pure on our lips and affect our hearts deeply, prayers must be made to God. Only by His grace will the ministry be enabled to keep the word of truth free from corruption.
John Owen writes these sobering words;
Many ministers are lazy, cold and indifferent tp their work. Few diligently and industriously give themselves wholeheartedly to the utmost of their strength and ability to the work of the ministry, with zeal for the glory of God and with heartfelt passion for the souls of men.
Many ministers are openly ambitious, insatiably covetous, proud, sensual, haters of those that are good, companions of the worst of men, showing depraved habits of the mind. How dreadfully do such men compare with the apostles and first preachers of the gospel!
May God once again send pastors after His own heart to feed the people with knowledge and understanding (Jeremiah 3:15).
Only the revival of a powerful evangelical ministry will draw the church back from its present apostasy into that glorious state which truly bring glory to God in the world. Amen