In a world where the demand for powerful messages and captivating sermons grows by the day, it is easy for pastors, evangelists, teachers, prophets, and apostles to fall into the trap of studying the Word of God solely to preach. However, I say to you: Do not study to preach; study to show yourself approved.
This statement is a clarion call to all ministers of the gospel to shift their focus from outward performance to inward transformation. It draws from the apostle Paul's admonition in 2 Timothy 2:15:
"Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Here’s what it truly means to “study to show yourself approved” and why it is vital for anyone in ministry:
1. The Priority of Personal Transformation
When you study the Word of God, your first objective should not be to gather material for a sermon but to grow spiritually. The Bible is more than a textbook; it is the living Word that has the power to transform your heart and mind. As a minister, your ability to lead others depends on your personal relationship with God.
A preacher who only studies to impress an audience may deliver inspiring words, but a preacher who studies to grow will radiate the presence and power of God in every aspect of life.
2. Seeking God's Approval Over Human Applause
Ministers are often tempted to seek validation from the congregation. Dynamic delivery and engaging illustrations can earn applause, but true ministry is about pleasing God, not people.
When you study with the intention of showing yourself approved unto God, you prioritize His standard of faithfulness and accuracy over the fleeting approval of man. It is better to preach a simple, Spirit-led message that pleases God than to present a flashy sermon that wins human accolades but lacks divine power.
3. Building Integrity in Ministry
Studying the Word to deepen your personal walk with Christ ensures that your preaching is authentic. Ministry is not just about delivering a message but about living the message. When you study to grow, your sermons become a natural outflow of your relationship with God, making your words both credible and impactful.
A preacher whose private life reflects the truths they teach is a powerful witness. The authenticity of their ministry inspires trust and draws others to Christ.
4. Preparing Beyond Performance
Ministry is not a performance; it is a calling. If your study of the Word is only for the stage, you risk becoming a performer instead of a shepherd. Your preparation must go beyond crafting impressive sermons to cultivating a heart that loves God and His people.
When you study with sincerity, you gain insights not only for your audience but also for your personal growth and challenges. This makes your ministry relatable and rooted in reality.
5. Becoming a Workman Who Need Not Be Ashamed
Paul's admonition to "rightly divide the Word of truth" is a reminder that ministers must handle Scripture with accuracy and reverence. This requires diligent study, not just for sermons but for a deep understanding of God's will.
When you study to show yourself approved, you become confident in your calling, equipped to face challenges, and unashamed in presenting the truth. You are prepared to answer questions, correct errors, and guide others with wisdom.
A Charge to Ministers
As ministers of the gospel, let us not reduce the study of Scripture to a professional obligation or a tool for public speaking. Instead, let us embrace it as a sacred opportunity to connect with God, grow in our faith, and align ourselves with His purpose.
True ministry flows from the overflow of a heart that has been transformed by the Word. When you study to show yourself approved, you will not only preach better sermons but also live a life that glorifies God.
Final Thought
The call to ministry is a call to intimacy with God. Before you stand before people, kneel before God. Before you speak, listen. Before you preach, live the message.
