Grade A Preacher Research Paper

Introduction:

This four-part series will be titled, Grade A Preacher. This lesson series will examine the qualities of character, personality, and ability that a preacher must have to be an effective preacher of the Gospel, according to 2 Timothy. This series will focus on what 2 Timothy teaches about the nature of a preacher and what comes along with that role. Each lesson will focus in on a different aspect of what Paul considers to be a certain quality of a preacher.

The primary focus of this series is to evaluate leadership in the Church based on Paul's writings in 2 Timothy. In this second letter to Timothy, characteristics of leadership are laid out by the Apostle Paul as a foundation for preaching the Gospel. This series will remind

7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life-not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that

A preacher must be zealous and courageous in the midst of suffering.

Paul tells Timothy that he will experience suffering because of his position. Paul urges Timothy to be zealous and to stir up the spirit of God. Suffering is something that comes along with proclaiming the Gospel. Paul tells Timothy that God does not give us the spirit of fear but of "power, love, and self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7). In this point in the lesson, preachers should reflect on the areas of fear and suffering in their life or within their ministry. Some preachers may face fear in finances, church planting, church transitions, or taking steps of faith.

Like Timothy, preachers today will face suffering for the sake of the Gospel. No matter how the suffering occurs, as a follower of Christ, suffering should be expected. It is important for preachers to note that fear hinders the work of God. God does not give us fear but power to continue to spread the Gospel. Investing in the gifts of God will prepare church leaders to view suffering as a part of the Christian