Today’s guest post comes to us from Peter Mead for EvangelicalFocus.com.

One of the greatest problems for preachers is pride. It is an insidious and relentless foe that will look to creep in at every stage of a life spent in ministry. What might we be proud about?

1. Knowledge. The preacher is a public speaker who is seen as an expert. Whether you have a PhD in theology or have simply studied a couple of resources, your listeners will tend to perceive you as an expert. And while knowledge is not a bad thing, what does knowledge do? It puffs up.
2. Ability. Whether it is spiritual gifting, or natural charisma, or learned skill, preaching involves some ability in public speaking – something many people dread deeply. Thus, there will be countless opportunities for pride as we speak to others.
3. Position. It may be elevation on a 12-inch podium before less than a dozen listeners, or it may be a prized pulpit for years on end, but pride in position is always knocking at the door of our hearts. Society may not revere the Reverend anymore, but many in our churches will certainly reinforce the honour of being a guest speaker, or a pastor, or a leader, etc.

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About Nelson Searcy

Nelson Searcy is an experienced church growth strategist, pastor, church planter and coach, consulting with churches around the world. As founder of Church Leader Insights and the Renegade Pastors Network, he has personally trained more than 3,500 church leaders in over 45 denominations through live events, seminars and monthly coaching. Nelson is also the Founding and Lead Pastor of The Journey Church, with locations across New York City and in Boca Raton, FL. Nelson and his church routinely appear on lists such as “The 50 Most Influential Churches” and “The 25 Most Innovative Leaders.” He is the author of over 100 church growth resources and 18+ books, including The Renegade Pastor: Abandoning Average in Your Life, Ministry and The Difference Maker: Using Your Everyday Life for Eternal Impact, and At the Cross with the People Who Were There. He and his wife, Kelley, have one son, Alexander.