3/15/26
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
God’s ways, revealed in His Word, often press gently but firmly against the human ego. Our hearts frequently long for life to unfold differently than the path God calls His people to walk. When Scripture calls us to faith, forgiveness, obedience, love, godliness, and contentment, those invitations can stir resistance within us, especially when the truth challenges our personal preferences. Yet even in that tension, the Lord is gracious, using His Word to shape our hearts and draw us closer to Himself.
Spiritual leaders who have received a high calling from God and who live God-centered lives are worthy of honor. The Church is called to remember those leaders who first brought them the Word of God and to watch their lives carefully, considering both their example and their faithful walk with the Lord.
We are called to imitate their faith: their settled conviction that God is, that He is the Creator and Ruler of all things, and that He has provided eternal salvation through Christ. As we follow their example, we too are to walk worthy of this God-centered calling, learning to rest in Him with deep trust and confidence in His power, His wisdom, and His goodness.
One of Scripture’s great anchors is the everlasting truth that Jesus Christ is eternally unchanging. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Spiritual leaders and the Church are sanctified through the blood of Christ. He is our Model, our Guide, and our Great High Priest. Through Him we have redemption and the hope of Heaven, and through Him we are called to continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God. This praise is the fruit of our lips, thankfully exalting, confessing, and glorifying His holy name.
Our Christian lives require more than easy believism; action is essential. We are commanded to please God and to joyfully honor those He has placed as spiritual leaders over us. Your Pastor is your Soul Guardian. Christians are called to honor their spiritual leaders with respect, support, and faithful prayer, knowing that in doing so, we serve the Lord Himself.
Together, let us commit ourselves both to being equipped through God’s Word and to honoring the spiritual leaders He has appointed over us, walking in faith, offering continual praise, and living lives that reflect the unchanging glory of our Savior, Jesus Christ.