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Words are powerful. But a minister’s example has a louder echo.
Paul once wrote:
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
— 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV)
This wasn’t arrogance. It was a spiritual dare: “Watch how I live. Test it. You’ll see Christ.”
This is the challenge for every minister in the Church of the Nazarene. Beyond their preaching, counseling, or teaching, ministers are called to lead by the quiet authority of a life deeply rooted in holiness and humility.
“The minister is to be an example to the church: punctual, discreet, diligent, earnest, and in purity, understanding, patience, kindness, love, and truth by the power of God.”
— Manual ¶502.3
This list is not mere etiquette—it’s evidence of someone walking in the Spirit.
Let’s reflect on these traits:
- Punctual – Not just about timekeeping, but about honoring others and being trustworthy.
- Discreet – Guarding hearts and conversations with wisdom.
- Diligent and Earnest – Serving with full commitment, not half-heartedness.
- Purity and Understanding – Living above reproach, but full of empathy.
- Kindness, Love, and Truth – A powerful trinity that reflects the very nature of Christ.
“We commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles… in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:4, 6-7 (NIV)
People may forget sermons, but they will never forget:
- how their pastor responded in crisis,
- how they treated the poor,
- how they handled temptation or correction,
- how they prayed when no one else was looking.
The Church of the Nazarene recognizes that true spiritual authority doesn’t come from position—but from character. A minister leads by example when they live their message, not just deliver it.
Words inspire. But life transforms.
I really appreciate how this article highlights that ministry is not just about preaching but living out the message Thank you for sharing this perspective
This challenges me deeply as a young minister How do we stay consistent when no one is watching
Thank you for reminding us that character matters more than position This is something our communities need to hear more often
Punctuality and discretion are so often overlooked in leadership yet they build trust and respect This is a timely reminder for me
Sometimes I wonder if ministers feel the pressure of being perfect all the time Is there space for human weakness in this calling
A life of patience kindness and truth is a beautiful but difficult calling I admire those who live it out daily
I love that the article encourages ministers to lead by example It inspires me to be more intentional in my own walk of faith
Ministers are watched more closely than we realize This makes me reflect on my own example and the impact it has on others
This article helped me understand why ministers must be diligent and earnest Their example shapes the whole church community
Thank you for this thoughtful article I especially appreciate the focus on humility and living authentically rather than just teaching
I have questions about how ministers can balance being discreet yet transparent How do they know what to share and what to keep private
This post truly shows that words alone aren’t enough The way ministers live their lives speaks louder than any sermon
Such a powerful reminder that ministry requires endurance in unseen moments I needed to hear this today
I appreciate the call for kindness and love in ministry It’s so important in a world that can be harsh and judgmental
How can churches support ministers to live out these traits without burning out There must be a way to nurture them too
The challenge to live what we preach is universal Whether minister or layperson this applies to us all
I often think about how ministers are role models for the congregation This article puts that responsibility into clear words
Very inspiring I hope more ministers read this and take these characteristics to heart
I’m grateful for this clear reminder that ministry is about character It encourages me to pursue holiness in my own life
Thank you for addressing such an important topic It’s easy to forget that leadership is a daily lived example not just public speeches
Sometimes I struggle to understand how ministers manage all these expectations Does anyone else feel this way