The minister’s shortcomings simply cannot be concealed. Even the most trivial soon get known. … However trifling their offenses, these little things seem great to others, since everyone measures sin, not by the size of the offense, but by the standing of the sinner.
John Chrysostom (347-407)
He who is required by the necessity of his position to speak the highest things is compelled by the same necessity to exemplify the highest things.
Gregory the Great (540-604)
Since you [O Lord] have appointed this blind guide to lead them [your people], for their sakes, Lord, if not for mine, teach him whom you have made to be their teacher; lead him whom you have bidden to lead them; rule him who is their ruler.
Aelred (1109-1167)
Prayer, meditation, and temptation make a minister.
Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Those whom the Lord has destined for this great office he previously provides with the armor which is requisite for the discharge of it, that they may not come empty and unprepared.
John Calvin (1509-1564)
I go out to preach with two propositions in mind. First, every person ought to give his life to Christ. Second, whether or not anyone else gives him his life, I will give him mine.
Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758)
1997 by Christianity Today/Leadership Journal.
