“The Christian preacher is commissioned with a particular task, that of reminding people over and over again of God’s Word and its claim on their lives. We find this theme often in the New Testament, from both Paul and others. Paul told the Romans, “Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God” (Rom. 15:15). To the Philippians he wrote, “Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe” (Phil. 3:1). Even Jude got in on the action and said, “But I want to remind you, though you once knew this, that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe” (Jude 5).” (Jim Shaddix, The Passion Driven Sermon, 15)
Those who listen to my preaching on a regular basis will attest that I constantly find myself reminding our congregation of the Scriptures, God’s promises, and how his grace has been demonstrated in our lives.
Reminding people of things is an important part of pastoral care, as well as an important part of discipleship. From time to time, we all need to be reminded of things. In fact, gospel-driven relationships are probably notoriously committed to reminding each other of the “God-factor” at work. What has God done? Where is God taking us? Why has he acted? How did he accomplish salvation? These questions are answered in ways that serve to remind us of God’s great grace.
Pastors: remind God’s people of God’s Word, grace, and great love!
Luke is a pastor-theologian living in northern California, serving as a co-lead pastor with his life, Dawn, at the Red Bluff Vineyard. Father of five amazing kids, when Luke isn’t hanging with his family, reading or writing theology, he moonlights as a fly fishing guide for Confluence Outfitters. He blogs regularly at LukeGeraty.com and regularly contributes to his YouTube channel.
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