A Pastor's Jealousy.

_{By Khutso Mokgehle} 

I have been reading 2 Corinthians over the past week, I am not sure if it is too early to say that this is my favourite New Testament book, but I seem to say this after reading any of Apostle Paul's letters anyway, perhaps, I just admire Apostle Paul.

Well, this morning, it was the heartbeat of Apostle that grabbed my attention, chances are, it is mainly because my dad is a pastor. I know exactly how Apostle Paul felt.

" I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him." 2 Corinthians 11:2

I often hear Christians criticizing pastors for trying to take "ownership" of God's people. However, any pastor who is a true shepherd of God's flock tends (pun intended) to love God's sheep. This type of love is genuine.

A servant of God who is determined to ensure that God's children are transformed and heading towards heaven has clear goals and desires. It saddens, if not breaks their heart when they realise that all the hard work they put into teaching the flock the bible truth is going to waste. There is a certain level of jealousy that pastors' feel.

"... I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ." 2 Corinthians 11:3

Ministry is not a social club where we just get together for a common goal or course and nothing else, it is actually way more than that. In the book of Hebrews 10:25 the bible tells us that we should not neglect the meeting of saints, but what struck me most is the reason for this advice, "... comfort each other as you see the day of His return coming near".

The reason for the meeting of saints was to comfort each other as Christ is coming back! By understanding this verse, you will understand why a pastor who has an aim of making sure every soul that God has entrusted him with does get to heaven. And it will also give you a perspective of how he will feel when those people turn back on the truth, the doctrine and the cross. 

Unfortunately, this is one of those things one can fully comprehend once they have had the responsibility of God's flock. 

Also, it is a pity that a lot of false prophets and teachers are also considered "pastors", and they manipulate God's children by twisting scriptures as these to suit their narrative, however, it is important to distinguish the difference between a power-hungry impostor from genuine men of God who sincerely care for God's people.

Nevertheless, I encourage ministry leaders not to feel ashamed for being sad and distressed when people leave their fellowships to follow teachings of demons, it is proof that you understand your mandate and you had the best intentions for God's people. 

How to deal with the jealousy appropriately

In as much as you need to acknowledge that you are human and you feel saddened, God still expects you to conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ (Phil 1:27). 

1. Do not slander the people that have left. (Eph 4:29)
2. Pray God's blessing over them. (Matt 5:44)
3. Understand that God knew it was going to happen, so relax. (1 John 2:19)
4. Forgive them, if they have hurt or offended you in anyway. (Eph 4:32)
5. Be willing to accept them back if they ever return back. (Luke 15:7)

In conclusion, the backsliding of saints is not something new and the feeling of jealousy for the lost members is not uncommon, but in all these, God still expects you to act accordingly. Don't lose your crown.