Ministry is a sacred calling. However, some behaviors, often tolerated or overlooked, can destroy credibility, hinder spiritual growth, and even cause scandal in the Church. It is therefore crucial to identify them and reject them with wisdom and humility.
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1. Spiritual Pride
Why?
A proud pastor becomes hard to teach and creates walls instead of bridges.
a) It chokes the humility that attracts God's grace.
b) It fosters competition instead of collaboration.
c) It drives people away rather than drawing them in.
James 4:6 – “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
2. Emotional or Spiritual Manipulation
Why?
Using fear or guilt to control people goes against the Spirit of Christ.
a) It produces dependent and immature believers.
b) It breaks the trust between pastor and congregation.
c) It dishonors the freedom we have in Christ.
2 Corinthians 1:24 – “Not that we lord it over your faith...”
3. Neglecting One’s Own Family
Why?
The home is the first mission field of a pastor.
a) Imbalance weakens the marital relationship.
b) Children may develop bitterness toward church.
c) It contradicts the biblical model for leadership.
1 Timothy 3:5 – “If anyone does not know how to manage his own household...”
4. Lack of Accountability
Why?
A pastor without supervision or accountability is a ticking time bomb.
a) It opens the door to abuse of power.
b) It hinders necessary correction.
c) It leads to isolation and eventual fall.
Proverbs 11:14 – “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.”
5. Obsession with Popularity
Why?
Chasing human approval diverts from divine mission.
a) It waters down the message.
b) It seeks to please crowds rather than God.
c) It replaces faithfulness with entertainment.
Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of men...?”
6. Jealousy Toward Other Ministries
Why?
Each ministry has its grace and season.
a) It leads to criticism instead of intercession.
b) It hinders cooperation among ministers.
c) It exposes inner insecurity.
Romans 12:15 – “Rejoice with those who rejoice...”
7. Lying and Exaggerating in Testimonies
Why?
Truth is one of the pillars of authentic ministry.
a) It builds a false image of the ministry.
b) It eventually discredits the pastor.
c) It misleads the congregation instead of edifying them.
Proverbs 12:22 – “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.”
8. Voluntary Isolation
Why?
Cutting off from other ministers is a dangerous trap.
a) It deprives one of support and brotherhood.
b) It encourages unchecked errors.
c) It promotes a false sense of self-sufficiency.
Hebrews 10:25 – “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...”
9. Unclear or Dishonest Financial Management
Why?
Financial transparency is a powerful testimony in the world.
a) It protects from accusations.
b) It builds the trust of members.
c) It reflects good stewardship of God’s Kingdom.
2 Corinthians 8:21 – “We aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man.”
10. Abandoning Personal Service for Mere Functions
Why?
The pastor is also a servant, not just a supervisor.
a) It disconnects him from the realities of the flock.
b) It causes passion for souls to fade.
c) It weakens the example for upcoming leaders.
John 13:14 – “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet...”
Inspiring Conclusion
Dear servant of God, these behaviors are not just small issues—they can be slow poison to your ministry. The Holy Spirit is calling you to a life of integrity, humility, and transparency.
Be a pastor who lifts Christ, not his ego.
Be a shepherd, not a tyrant.
Above all, remain teachable and open to correction.
Prayer
Lord, purify my heart and my attitude. Remove from me anything that could tarnish Your work through my life. Give me the courage to reject destructive behaviors and the wisdom to be a true example to Your people. Amen.
About the Author
Pastor & Missionary JEFISTAN KOMBI
Lead Pastor of Last Harvest Church in Goma (DR Congo) and Port Elizabeth (South Africa).
Bible Teacher at IBTAD (Assemblies of God Theological Institute), minister trainer, and missionary under Apostle Louison Tunasi (Last Harvest Mission).
Contact & Collaboration:
Email: jefistankombi@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +243 8 0877 0877
Was this message a blessing to you? Don’t hesitate to write to us or share it with other pastors. Together, let’s build authentic, solid, and lasting ministry.
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