Pattern of Good Works

By Ellis Crum

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     An evangelist has many responsibilities toward his brethren. If he is to follow the example of the "seventy" and early workers in the vineyard he will "eat such things as are set before" him. He will not always preach a health diet, nor make a waitress out of his hostess by saying, "I don't eat white bread," "I don't like this," or "I never eat that." As a Christian, he will be interested in encouraging everyone to do what is best for their bodies and well being. He must be careful, however, that he does not get so wrapped up in some food supplement or other interest that it supplants his thinking and conversation about spiritual things. Furthermore, while we are speaking of a preacher's habits, it would seem to me that he should desire to be as little trouble as possible while he is a guest in the homes of the brethren. Surely he can make his own bed, clean out his bath tub, and do many other little things to help compensate for the extra work his presence naturally makes.

     In his own home and in the homes of others he will talk freely about spiritual matters. When controversial subjects are brought up he will not "clam-up" and refuse to talk. He will discuss the subject calmly and frankly. He will give his honest judgment on the matter as based upon his understanding of the Word of God. As a preacher of the gospel he will never bring in personalities or appeal to prejudice. It is amazing how both sides in a controversy try to claim the dead as being on their side. The only dead saints with any authority are the apostles and inspired writers! "When they make themselves their standard of measurement and judge their own value from personal comparisons, then they do not behave wisely" (2 Cor. 10:12, Berkeley Version).

     An evangelist should not refuse to talk to any honest person who is sincerely seeking to know the truth. However, evangelists should exercise a self imposed censorship when it comes to talking controversial matters, or brotherhood problems, in the presence of new Christians or weak members. Remember: "strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age" (Heb. 5:14). Evangelists should be careful to only use "Sound speech, that cannot be condemned" (Titus 2:8).

     Among other duties of an evangelist are such things as exhorting, instructing, rebuking, and admonishing the lukewarm. Even the most faithful need to have their "pure minds" stirred up "by way of remembrance" (2 Pet. 3:1). To the Philippians in chapter three and verse one Paul wrote: "To keep writing to you [over and over] of the same things is not irksome to me, and it is [a precaution] for your safety" --The Amplified New Testament He also has a duty to "Charge them that are rich in this present world, that they be not high-minded, nor have their hope set on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy" (1 Tim. 6:17, American Standard Version). He should warn the careless and comfort the afflicted; he should visit and pray for the sick. These, of course, are not exclusive duties of preachers, but are obligations resting upon all Christians. However, Paul told Titus, "In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works." He likewise charged Timothy, "be thou an example of the believers."

     Evangelists in the early church were trained by men already in the field. The apprenticeship method of teaching has long been recognized as one of the best methods of training. It is the divine method of training evangelists, but how it is neglected today! As evangelists we must train young men for this great work of spreading the gospel. "And the [instructions] which you have heard from me, along with many witnesses, transmit and entrust (as a deposit) to reliable and faithful men who will be competent and qualified to teach others also" (2 Tim. 2:2, Amplified N. T.). To the extent of

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our ability and facilities our home is open to any young men desiring to train for evangelistic work. Preachers of today need to do more of the type of work outlined in Acts 16:3, where Paul took Timothy with him on his travels.

     Some evangelists seem afraid to share their knowledge or give information to young preachers. They are seemingly afraid these young men will preach "their sermons" or use "their notes" and they will be left on the shelf. Such an attitude is contrary to the teaching of 2 Timothy 2:2. There is no room for envy or jealousy--evils which divide the church and destroy influence. Remember: there is room for everyone in the kingdom of God. Congregations should keep older preachers busy training and teaching others.

     Evangelists (and their wives) should be careful in their talking that they do not paint such a dreary picture of a preacher's life that no one will want to undertake this great work. Of course the hardships should be pointed out; however, Timothy was urged to "endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ," not complain about it. Evangelists sometimes get to dwelling on their hardships so much that they feel too sorry for themselves. Paul referred to all of his sufferings as only "light afflictions."

     The New Testament preacher should be a peace maker. His duty is to reconcile men to God and each other! He will need to do a lot of "preaching" on Matthew 18:15. He will learn from experience that those whom he would expect to treat him best will sometimes treat him the worst. Even though brethren will order him out of their house, or shout and make railing accusations against him, he must have the patience to meekly and quietly endure it all. "And what happens will be yours when people blame you and ill-treat you and say all kinds of slanderous things against you for my sake! Be glad then, yes, be tremendously glad--for your reward in Heaven is magnificent. They persecuted the prophets before your time in exactly the same way" (Matt. 5:11, 12, Phillips' Translation). An old sculptor and his helper were out in the rain one day selecting a stone for his next masterpiece. A friend enquired if he couldn't wait until a better day to make his selection. His reply was, "When it rains the true color comes out of the stone!" So it is with Christians. The "showers of adversity" test us today; they bring Out our true color.

     I am sorry to say that there are many moral cowards in the church. They are not afraid to talk behind their brother's back, but they won't go to the brother in person. Evangelists need to teach members to go to their brother-not go after him in some article or slander him in secret! It is amazing how some people, including some preachers, can be so nice to your face, yet try and crucify you when out of your presence. A double minded, double tongued, or two-faced person is condemned by both God and society. Suspicion is the poison of friendship. Let us cultivate friendship, follow after peace, and promote unity. May we manifest a greater love to the saints, and may we improve our attitude and develop a sweeter disposition. Henry Drummond once said: "God's love for poor sinners is very wonderful. but God's patience with ill-natured saints is a deeper mystery."