Pastor Timothy Sudolcan

“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons.” – Philippians 1:1

THEME OF SERMON: God’s people should love his church!

MAIN POINT 1:

Pastors spiritually lead the church

What is a pastor?

1. A pastor (Elder/Overseer) is a faithful man who is called by God to teach his word, provide spiritual oversight, and care for the church.
2. Single or plural. (Acts 20:17-18)
3. Character over competency. (1 Timothy 3:1)

What are they called to do?

1. Give Spiritual direction and care. (1 Peter 5:1-4)
2. Faithfully preach and teach God’s word. (2 Timothy 4:1-2)

Why is it important for the church?

1. The pastor should remind us of the great shepherd. He is an example.
2. Helps keep God’s purpose at the forefront, but never at the expense of the body.

MAIN POINT 2:

Deacons serve the church

What is a Deacon?

1. A deacon is a servant of the church who primarily cares for the practical matters of the body.

What are they called to do?

1. Care for the physical and practical things in the church. (Acts 6:1-3)
2. Resolve conflicts when they arise and restore harmony to the fellowship.

Why is it important for the church?

1. The deacon desires to be the hands of feet of Jesus.
2. This helps the church carry out every aspect of its purpose.

MAIN POINT 3:

The congregation governs and carries out the ministry of the church

What is the congregation?

1. The gathering of a local body of believers united in fellowship, under the direction of Jesus, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

What is the congregation called to do?

1. We have important responsibilities as individuals in the body, but when we gather, we have a collective responsibility. (Matthew 18:17)
2. Carry out the Work of the Ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-12)
3. Carry the final authority over important matters. (Acts 15:22)

• A. Under the Lordship of Christ and the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

Why is it important for the church?

1. It protects the church from tyrannical pastors and false teachers.
2. It protects the church from the members adopting a passive attitude toward God’s mission.
3. It promotes faithfulness to God’s design.

The church is pastor led, deacon served, and congregationally governed.

CONCLUSION:

God’s people should love his church!

Promotes Dependence

1. It reminds us of our great task and our weakness to carry out that task in our own strength.

• A. “We need the church – it's God-given ordinances, structure, and fellowship – as we travel this perilous road because there are many powerful enemies lurking in the shadows. The church must battle against Satan, the world, and the flesh, who never rest in their efforts to harm us, distract us, and lead us away from the Lord Jesus.” Tom Hicks.
• B. If the enemy can’t destroy the church, he will get you away from the

church.

Promotes Worship

1. God’s visible wisdom and care for his people should lead us to joy.

A. Is your joy and love for God and his people growing? (1 John 4:20-21)