Wanted: Moderate Ministers

My good friend Colin Adams (above left, the one with hair) and I are continuing our study of Richard Sibbes' The Bruised Reed, and enjoying it greatly. Chapter 5 is entitled "The Spirit of Mercy Should Move Us". In it Reverend Sibbes urges ministers to show the same patience and kindness toward the 'less-mature' that our Savior did. I'll let the Puritan speak for himself:

Where most holiness is, there is most moderation ... We see in Christ a marvellous temper of absolute holiness, with great moderation. What would have become of our salvation, if he had stood upon terms, and not stooped thus low unto us? We need not affect to be more holy than Christ. It is no flattery to do as he does, so long as it is to edification.

The Holy Spirit is content to dwell in smoky, offensive souls. Oh, that that Spirit would breathe into our spirits the same merciful disposition!

Not many heroes of the faith are known for their great moderation, but this indispensable quality is a hallmark of more mature servants of the church. May it be found in us!

NB - Colin would never toot his own horn, but that surely doesn't mean I can't boast on his behalf. He's a faithful, powerful, expository preacher of the Word! Hear for yourself (his latest sermon, on the respective prayers of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Jesus' parable, Luke 18). To hear others go here and enter your preferred critera. Colin is the Assistant Pastor/Pastor of Student and Youth at Charlotte Baptist Church here in Edinburgh, Scotland. And in case you were wondering, he is quite moderate.