Monday, August 31, 2009

A Pastoral Charge by John Murray

Here is a pastoral charge by John Murray, delivered in 1960. He focuses on two functions of the pastor: (1) preaching the Word and (2) pastoral care.

Under preaching he charges the pastor (a) to have the time and energy needed to prepare well; (b) to depend on the Spirit for understanding and effectually proclaiming the Word; and (c) to think much of the privilege.

Under pastoral care Murray charges the pastor (a) to shepherd the church of God; (b) always be read to given an audience to your people; and (c) to remember that you are the servant of Christ.

It's well worth reading the whole thing.