Sermon Tone Analysis

Introduction: Today we have the joy of celebrating the ordination of pastor TC Kinney.

I want to begin our time by reading a portion of God’s word from I Timothy 3:1-7.

Today we are not performing a ritualistic ceremony that somehow passes the rights and privileges for the office of pastor to TC.

We are not just going through formal organizational traditions in order to make TC something that is is not.

Rather, ordination is simply this… Jesus’ church recognizing Jesus’ work.

What does that mean?

Jesus is responsible to make a man ready to be ordained for pastoral service.

It is our responsibility as members of Christs’ body to recognize that work of Christ.

How does God make a man ready for shepherding and how do go about recognizing that work?

The goal of our time together is to answer this questions from God’s word.

Called by God

For conversion

II Timothy 1:8-9 “The calling of conversion is a work of God”

T.C., Have you welcomed the good news of the gospel, showing evidence of your conversion by turning away from sin and trusting in Christ alone for your salvation?

Members of Hillcrest, do you recognize the work of God in calling TC to be converted?

For service

I Timothy 3:1 “The desire to serve as an elder is a work of God.”

The prophet Jonah as an example of God changing desires.

T.C., Do you desire the noble task of the office of overseer?

Members of Hillcrest, Do you recognize the work of God in calling TC to desire the noble task of the office of overseer?

Gifted by God

To teach

I Timothy 3:2 “Able to teach” The ability to teach God’s word is a gift from God. (Romans 12:7) Doesn't mean that all teachers are pastors, and that all pastors teach in the same way.

However, if a man is called to desire the office of pastor, he must be able to teach.

And that ability is something that God gives.

Also, this doesn't mean that teaching is the only ability, or gift that a pastor may have.

For example; in I Timothy 4:14-16 the apostle Paul tells pastor Timothy to…(Read) An elder/pastor must at least be able to teach God’s word.

And whatever other gifts he may have then he should use those for the glory of God and the building up of the body.

This teaching part of pastoral ministry is so important that Paul charges and warns Timothy in II Timothy 4:1-4 .

And TC, I extend this charge and warning to you, as well as myself by reading it again for our reminder.

TC, By the power of the Holy Spirit who has gifted you, will you teach the whole counsel of God’s word found in the 66 books of Holy Scripture?

Members of Hillcrest, Do you recognize the gift of God in TC to rightly teach the Word of truth?

Fulfill your ministry

1. II Timothy 4:5, TC , we have recognized Gods calling and gifting in you.

He is leading you and will provide the opportunity for you to shepherd His flock.

With thankfulness and great expectation for how God is going to pour you our for His service we commision you to fulfill your ministry..

2. How?

I Peter 5:1-4

Conclusion: Brother, there is great joy in being called to under shepherd the body of Christ.

Often, that joy will come in the form of suffering.

Bearing burdens.

Heart wrenching prayer.

Often it will come from encouraging words from members, witnessing the spiritual growth in new converts and old converts, being invited into key moments of people’s lives where you get a front row seat to the activity of God.

However, the major blessing and joy of serving in the office of shepherding elder is that when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

As Christ preservers through you to bring about His good purposes, you will be used up… and this is for your good.

Your King will not abandon you, Your Shepherd will not leave you alone, Your Savior will make you ready to receive the joy of your salvation!

A crown of glory.

Closing Prayer: having deacons and members gather around TC.