Join us for an insightful sermon delivered by Pastor Allen Victor from Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville.

In this message, we explore a two-fold perspective: one directed towards preachers and the other towards congregants. Is your pastor a true and genuine shepherd, and does your pastor possess the qualities of a true shepherd?

Pastor Allen dives into 1 Thessalonians 2:1-20, examining the attributes that distinguish a genuine shepherd from those who may fall short. Discover the key qualities of a true shepherd as we delve into the Word of God.
Outline:
1. He Does Not Quit When Times Get Hard (Vs 1-3)
· Understanding the trials faced by true messengers of the Gospel.
· Why is the message of the Gospel often rejected?
2. He Seeks to Please God Rather Than Man (Vs 4)
· Discerning whether a preacher’s message is man-centered or God-centered.
· The danger of itching ears and sound doctrine.
3. He Is Not in It for the Money (Vs 5)
· The importance of shepherds living with and understanding their flock.
· The contrast between genuine shepherds and those motivated by greed.
4. He Is Not in It for the Glory (Vs 6)
· Exploring the concept of celebrity pastors and their impact.
· Reflecting on the humility of John the Baptist.
5. He Feeds the Sheep, Not Eats the Sheep (Vs 7)
· Emphasizing the pastoral role of nurturing and protecting the flock.
6. He Is Affectionate and Sacrificial (Vs 8)
· Drawing parallels between modern pastors and shepherds.
· Highlighting the sacrificial nature of true shepherds.
7. He Is a Blessing, not a Burden to the People (Vs 9)
· Examining the financial aspect of pastoral care.
· Discussing appropriate compensation for pastors.
8. His Walk Matches His Message (Vs 10-12)
· The importance of consistency in a preacher’s life.
· Avoiding hypocrisy in ministry.

Culminating in a reflection on the results of having a genuine shepherd, Pastor Allen Victor explores the transformation that occurs when the Word of God is faithfully preached and received by the congregation.
1. The Result: Transformation and Separation (Vs 13-16)
· How genuine shepherds foster trust and transformation in their congregations.
· The inevitable separation from the world’s values.
2. The Congregation Becomes Dear to the Shepherd (Vs 17-18)
· The deep connection between pastors and their congregations.
· The obstacles faced in maintaining this connection.

Finally, Pastor Victor concludes with his greatest desire for the congregation at Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, echoing the apostle Paul’s sentiments in 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20.

Join us in this enlightening sermon as we explore the qualities of true shepherds and the transformative power of the Gospel.

For more information about Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville or to support our ministry, visit our website at https://ccfjax.org and https://CCFJax.org/give.

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