Accountability, accountability, accountability...

"And now, a word to you who are the elders in the churches."

If that doesn't make you quiver then I am not sure what will. This is the way that 1 Peter 5 addresses certain issues within the church at the time.

It seems like in social media or on the news there is always some sort of report on how a Christian pastor committed adultery, a worship leader left his wife to marry someone else, and maybe another pastor accused of embellishment of funds. And NO, this is not persecution; this is more about putting your money where your mouth is.

I am a strong believer in honoring those who deserve honor, specially when they work for the kingdom. This is a noble position and it is often criticized. However, I will let some off easy and others I will not because today there seems to be a lot of people who are in the ministry for the wrong reasons.

"And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t Lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor." 1 Peter 5:1-4 NLT

I need say nothing....but here are my 3 takeaways.

1. Care for and be a pastor to your people (1 Peter 5:2)

This not only applies to you pastors out there, but also to the rest of the leadership. You are not king, you are not the boss. This people do not have to share in the burden if they do not want to, so learn to appreciate them.

2. Serve with no hidden agendas or ulterior motives (1 Peter 5:2)

It is unbelievable but I consistently see ministers more worried about the money, title and accolades than with the burdens that surround being a follower of Christ. Worship leaders are also really bad at this. Serve because of what God did for you, not for the check $$$.

3. Be a good witness (1 Peter 5:3)

This should be a given, but I'll say it anyway. Your ministry will have way more impact if your testimony supports it. God can and will use you to do amazing things for HIS love for people, but do not mistake that for a FREE PASS to behave in a less than desirable way.

I know this was rough, and it was rough for me when God spoke to me through these 4 verses. This is the hope we have in our God, that all these things are for our benefit, to make us prosper in all areas of our lives. I encourage you today to take a hard look and analyze your priorities, agenda, and do a temperature check to make sure your heart is still where it should. Your spouse will thank you, your people will thank you, more than anything - you will be within God's grace. There is nothing more beautiful than that.

in Christ,

-Andy Tapia