Category Archives: Calvin

BANNER: 7 Characteristics of Calvin’s ministry

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Pastor Ian Hamilton (a Banner Trustee, and author, as a Scot serving a church in Cambridge, England), also spoke (twice) at the recent Banner of Truth Trust Minister’s Conference — once on Calvin as a Pastor, and then bringing the closing sermon of the conference from 2 Corinthians 4.

calvin painting_2In the first, Hamilton listed for us “7 Characteristics of Calvin’s Ministry” —

1/ It was carried out with a view of Christ as Chief Shepherd.

2/ Love to Christ is the animating principle of ministry; our motive.

3/ It reflects the servanthood of Christ.

4/ A conviction that preaching and teaching the gospel is the primary task of the pastor; in season, and out of season he preaches the Word. *NB: The preacher has two voices: one to feed the sheep, and one to frighten the wolves.

5/ Much use of pastoral visitation, house to house.

6/ He never wearied of telling believers to get out of themselves and in to Christ!

7/ A ministry shaped and impregnated with the overflow of his own union with Christ.
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O Lord Jesus, help me, and my fellow pastors, in our frailty and feebleness to serve You and Your flock better. For your glory, Lord. Amen.
pdb

How does a godly heritage help us?

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The 2009 US Banner of Truth Ministers’ Conference last week began with a sermon by Mark Johnston on Hebrews 13:7. That text and some of my notes follow….

Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. (esv)

This year we are celebrating the 500th anniversary of the birth of the great Reformer, theologian & pastor, John Calvin. Is it right to celebrate and remember such men? Yes! Why?

(1) As an encouragement to persevere. All those named in Hebrews 11 endured, and embody great faith in God.

(2) As a model of faith & life. Despite some differences in cultural and historical contexts, we are instructed to learn what we can from those who’ve gone before. See Calvin’s personal godliness (amidst ongoing illnesses and the threats on every front).

(3) As those who lead us to Christ!. They do not rally men to themselves, but lead them to Christ — who is the same, yesterday, today and forever!

Amen. pdb