Applying Christ’s Cautions to Modern Ministry
God Still Speaks: The Prophetic Call Remains
“God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began.” (Acts 3:21, NKJV) This declaration reminds us that God’s voice has echoed through history, offering guidance, correction, and comfort. From the earliest prophets to the apostles and leaders of today, God’s pattern has been to communicate directly with His people—especially in times of challenge or transition.
Ephesians 4:11-16 affirms that Christ Himself has given diverse spiritual gifts—including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—to equip the saints and build up the church. Each role, including the prophetic, is vital for nurturing unity, maturity, and resilience within the Body of Christ. Prophets are not just messengers of future events; they are bold voices for truth and accountability, needed as much now as they ever were.
The Prophet’s Responsibility: Sounding the Alarm
Charles Swindoll writes, “If you or I see something or know something that has the potential of bringing harm to others, to give a bold, strong warning is our duty! Not to do so is neglect.” Prophetic ministry demands courage. It is not about stirring fear or negativity, but about compassionately alerting God’s people to dangers—whether spiritual complacency, doctrinal error, or moral compromise. To warn is to love, to care, and to shepherd well.
Jesus’ Warnings in Matthew 23: A Timeless Caution
Jesus reserved some of His strongest words for the religious leaders of His day. In Matthew chapters 23 and 24, He exposed the hypocrisy and pride of the scribes and Pharisees. He issued seven “woes,” condemning their tendency to demand more of others than of themselves, their love of public praise, and their attachment to religious titles and privileges.
Jesus cautioned the crowds: “Do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach” (Matt. 23:3). His critique was not about the Law itself, but about the failure of the leaders to embody its spirit—choosing appearance over authenticity, burdening others while making no sacrifices themselves.
Titles and Honors: Temptations for Leaders
The religious elite coveted honorific titles like “Rabbi” and “Father,” seeking admiration and status. Jesus challenged this, teaching that “you are all brethren” and that no one should seek to be exalted above others. Charles Spurgeon echoed this by warning that all titles which inspire pride or create hierarchy are forbidden in the true church of Christ.
Yet, Jesus wasn’t outright banning spiritual titles—Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, referred to himself as a “father” and “teacher” in his letters (see 1 Corinthians 4:15; 1 Timothy 2:7). The issue is not the title, but the heart. When titles foster pride, division, or a craving for recognition, they betray the gospel’s call to humility.
Modern Lessons for Spiritual Leaders
We live in what some have called a “new Dark Ages,” a post-Christian era where genuine spiritual leadership is more critical than ever. Christian leaders today must heed Christ’s warnings by:
· Practicing humility above all, remembering that “the greatest among you will be your servant.”
· Rejecting the pursuit of titles, status, or public acclaim.
· Holding themselves to the same standards they teach others.
· Respecting spiritual offices without idolizing those who occupy them.
· Being willing to address uncomfortable truths for the good of the flock—even if it means sounding an unpopular warning.
Servant Leadership: The Heart of Christ’s Teaching
Jesus closed His rebuke with a powerful principle: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Matt. 23:12). True Christian leadership is marked not by power, privilege, or applause, but by servanthood, empathy, and self-sacrifice.
Conclusion: Living the Lesson
Today’s spiritual leaders are stewards, not sovereigns. God continues to speak, and He calls His leaders to humility, authenticity, and courageous love. When leaders heed Jesus’ warnings—prioritizing service over status, and truth over tradition—the church is equipped to thrive, unified in the love and maturity described in Ephesians 4.
May all who lead in Christ’s name do so with the heart of a servant, the courage of a prophet, and the humility of a disciple—ever attentive to the loving warnings and wisdom of the Lord.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 