I have been thinking about the wonderful ministry of pastor John MacArthur who recently passed from this earth into heaven and the life to come. For nearly five decades he preached the Bible as the authoritative Word of God. He shepherded the flock at Grace Community Church and influenced ministry-minded students at The Masters College. With great admiration, “Wow”! By contrast, in Zechariah’s day, God was displeased with the priests and prophets He appointed to guide the people and ensure a culture that reflected His character.
My anger burns against the shepherds,
and I will punish the leaders;
for the Lord Almighty will care
for his flock, the people of Judah,
and make them like a proud horse in battle. Zechariah 10:3 NIV
How pleased would God be with the way I am fulfilling the ministry entrusted to me?
God, as this day begins- what a sobering reminder that it is the Church that is responsible to define the values and morays of the culture. Forgive us for not fulfilling this calling and for relinquishing it to pop-culture icons in music, Hollywood, and sports. Thank you for the outspoken Christians in these fields. May our pulpits preach faithfully the Word of God and avoid heavenly punishment.
