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Pastoral Ministry
minded, and in constant communion with Heaven. Then those who are
converted under their labors will partake of their spirit, and emulate
their graces.—
The Review and Herald, August 8, 1878
.
Converts may set their affections more upon their minister
than upon their Redeemer—The fact that a minister is applauded
and praised is no evidence that he has spoken under the influence of
the Spirit. It is too frequently the case that young converts, unless
guarded, will set their affections more upon their minister than upon
their Redeemer. They feel that they have been greatly benefited by their
minister’s labors. They conceive that he possesses the most exalted
gifts and graces, and that no other can do as well as he; therefore
they attach undue importance to the man and his labors. This is a
confidence that disposes them to idolize the man, and look to him
more than to God, and in doing this they do not please God nor grow
in grace. They do great harm to the minister, especially if he is young,
and developing into a promising gospel laborer.—
Evangelism, 330
.
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