Journal: Masters Seminary Journal
Volume: TMSJ 04:2 (Fall 1993)
Article: The Modeling of Ministers
Author: George J. Zemek, Jr.

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MSJ 4:2 (Fall 93) p. 165

The Modeling of Ministers

George J. Zemek

Professor of Theology

An often neglected part of leading a local church is the element of providing an exemplary lifestyle for the flock to follow. Modeling has its origin in the creation of man in God’s image, but through the fall and new creation of man in Christ, it has assumed a renewed importance. NT usage of the τύπος (tupos, “type”) and μιμητής (mimētēs, “imitator”) word-groups provides a good idea of the responsibility of church leaders to live as good moral examples before those whom they lead. Only when they do so can pastoral ministry fulfil the biblical standards of that office.

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Reportedly, a cleric once said, “Do as I say; don’t do as I do.” This frank adage has unfortunately characterized many past and present preachers, many of whom have reputations as great teachers of God’s Word. However, when measured by the Bible’s qualifications for communication and character, such “ministers” come up woefully short.

Saying-but-not-doing in its multiplied forms and settings has always been particularly detestable in the eyes of the Lord. Jesus spoke to the crowd about the scribes and Pharisees, telling them to follow their instructions from Moses, but not to follow their personal example, because “they keep on saying and yet are not doing” (Matt 23:3, note Greek present tenses). His indictment ultimately embraced a whole lineage of dark examples of hypocrisy throughout fallen mankind’s history.

All men are accountable to God for profession without practice (e.g., Jas 1:22–27); yet certain ones by virtue of their office are responsible at the highest level of divine accountability for prescription without practice (e.g., Jas 3:1). Therefore, it is no wonder Paul emphasized to Timothy and to Titus God’s mandate not only for exhortation but also for exemplification (1 Tim 4:12–16; Tit 2:7). Similarly, Peter, in his directives to elders, spotlights the showing dimension of shepherding

MSJ 4:2 (Fall 93) p. 166

(1 Pet 5:1–4).

The Scriptures on spiritual leadership are intimidating to contemporary ministers of the gospel. How can we who are...

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