Andrew Restrepo

Hello everyone, Although I feel like I've recently come to my own conclusion regarding this topic, I want to hear your opinions on it. Recently, during a discussion, it was made known to me that friend has been questioning the relevance of the New Testament epistles. 2 Timothy 3:16 says: "All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness". The argument my friend brought was this: When this scripture was written it was referring to the only scriptures which existed at the time which were the Old Testament scriptures. Being that the New Testament was not written, we must give more attention and place more importance to the words of Jesus versus the words of Paul. I've done some research but would love to hear from all of you. If (allegedly) the New Testament scriptures were not written then how does 2 Tim 3:16 refer to the epistles and the majority of the new testament? And if it doesn't refer to them, why must we listen to the epistles if they're not God-breathed? Thanks everyone. http://www.theroadtoemmaus.ca

I completely agree. The church is not perfect and we should definitely cover one another. The bible explains the process by which we address sin and gossiping is not one of them! http://www.theroadtoemmaus.ca

Wow! This is all such amazing feedback. The day to day interactions with other Christians is sooo important. It's true - plenty of great teachers or charismatic speakers often don't have the compassion or patience to bare with people on a daily basis. And I really appreciate the comment about God calling us, not necessarily us choosing to become a Pastor. Your advice is invaluable! God bless you. Can't wait to hear from others.

Thanks for the encouragement! I think that a very important component that many of us Christians can often neglect is the need for community and accountability. So many of us walk our Christian life alone, because we don't trust in others or we feel superior to others, but the Bible calls us to walk out our faith in community. I think of James 5:16 which tells us to confess our sins one to another so that we may be healed. Surely, just as the Holy Spirit enables us to say no to sin and to pursue God in consecration, God also desires to use our brothers and sisters to assist us in our fight against sin and temptation. God bless you.

Amen! Jesus is worth everything; what a testimony that is to have forsaken those things to pursue Jesus. Yes, I find myself doing this quite frequently. I'm passionate about not only serving others but encouraging them through the Word of God. Yes, I've preached several sermons. Many of my brothers and sisters in Christ have seen certain giftings in me and have provided platforms for me to share the Word of God on a regular basis. This has grown me and inspired me to communicate the Word of God effectively and according to His spirit's leading. This is perhaps one of the most daunting but also one of the most motivating areas for me. I am not naturally disposed to enjoying education - I'm actually not the biggest fan of school. But, if I love God, why would I even turn down the opportunity to learn about Him in an intensive manner? And, I've learned how important it is to study the scriptures in their original languages especially if you seek to teach others. Thanks for the feedback everyone!

Hello everyone, Lately I have become much more interested in Pastoring. This interest is not at all something I plan to act on flippantly, but I have been spending more time listening to the testimonies of various pastors. I wanted to ask you for your testimony: How did you become a pastor? What was it that settled it in your heart to pursue pastoral ministry? I would love to hear your stories and receive some advice on how you'd counsel someone who is interested in pastoral ministry. Thank you.