Jesus as Model Pastor
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the health of the church. The minister is to be a shepherd.... He leaves
the ninety and nine within the fold; however dark and tempestuous
the night, however perilous and unpleasant the way, however long
and tedious the search, he does not weary, he does not falter, until
the lost is found. But when it is found, does he act indifferently?
Does he call the sheep, and command the straying one to follow him?
Does he threaten and beat it, or drive it before him, recounting the
bitterness and discomfiture and anxiety that he has had on its account?
No; he lays the weary, exhausted, wandering sheep on his shoulder,
and with cheerful gratitude that his search has not been in vain, he
returns it to the fold. His gratitude finds expression in melodious songs
of rejoicing, and heavenly choirs respond to the shepherd’s note of
joy. When the lost is found, heaven and earth unite in rejoicing and
thanksgiving.—
The Review and Herald, August 23, 1892
.
Preacher-Teacher
Jesus’ ministry consisted not merely in sermonizing, but in
educating the people—We should seek to follow more closely the
example of Christ, the great Shepherd, as He worked with His little
company of disciples, studying with them and with the people the
Old Testament Scriptures. His active ministry consisted not merely
in sermonizing but in educating the people. As He passed through
villages, He came in personal contact with the people in their homes,
teaching, and ministering to their necessities. As the crowds that
followed Him increased, when He came to a favorable place, He
would speak to them, simplifying His discourses by the use of parables
and symbols.—
Evangelism, 203
.
Christ’s preaching was simple and direct—His words were sim-
ple and direct, and no one need look in the dictionary to ascertain His
meaning. A child could comprehend His teaching. And as He did His
work, so are we to do ours, following His example.—
The Signs of the
Times, July 8, 1889
.
Jesus sought to meet the minds of the common people—We
may do much in a short time if we will work as Christ worked. We
may reflect with profit upon His manner of teaching. He sought to
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meet the minds of the common people. His style was plain, simple,
comprehensive.—
Evangelism, 565
.