Paul’s tone has changed in verses 12-20. Before he had the tone of a lawyer who was arguing his case against the false teachers and the carelessness of the Galatian believers. But in this passage he is speaking to them from the heart of a pastor who loves them dearly. As he does so, the Holy Spirit gives us some good insight on the marks of both great leaders and great followers. There is something for all those who belong to Christ and to his body, the church. Let’s start with some marks of a great pastor.
Marks of a Great Pastor
1. A great pastor is an in living out the .
2. A great pastor is more concerned about over .
- “Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?” – Galatians 4:16
3. A great pastor wants others to than they do about their .
- “They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you. Galatians ” – 4:17-18
4. A great pastor’s deepest desire is for to be in his people.
- “My little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!” – Galatians 4:19
Marks of a Great Congregation
1. A great congregation places a greater priority on a pastor’s than his .
- “You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 4:13-14
2. A great congregation is willing to display a for the work of the kingdom.
- “What then has become of your blessedness? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have gouged out your eyes and given them to me. ” – Galatians 4:15