For His Works Sake
Twice in the same day, from different sources, I heard this comment: I really didnt like some of his ways, but he is the one who pulled this church out of its slump. These are strange words — not because they are so improbable, but because there are so few people who will give credit to one against whom they have some personal criticism.
Ranchers will keep a mean tempered bull, not because they like his disposition, but because he builds the quality of their herd — and that is why they bought him in the first place.
A Research Laboratory will maintain an eccentric scientist, putting up with many strange whims, because that one-track mind of his produces the brain storms which keep that company in the lead.
But churches will fire preachers and expel overseers for doing the very things most needed, and for which they are best qualified to perform. Scores of preachers are dismissed to appease someones meaningless grouch; for every one dismissed because he wouldnt study and work hard at the job he was supposed to accomplish. Why is this so??
Well, the mean tempered bull is supposed to up-grade the herd. His effect is upon cattle, and as long as the rancher can stay out of his way — so the effect is not a maimed horse or rider — the bull is tolerated. The eccentric scientist, or absent-minded professor, who produces the desired effect in lab or class room, and has no adverse effect upon those in control, is allowed to continue. But the preacher, elder, teacher who affects ME had better watch out.
Here is the core of the matter. We do not mind OTHER people being taught or affected — just stay off of MY toes. Do not question MY conclusions, nor ask ME to change. it is so very hard for us to be truly objective, accepting Christ as our standard or mark (Phil. 3:14) and really appreciate what others may do to teach us more about Him, or bring us to follow Him more closely.
All men are imperfect — the scholar has his purple moods; the speaker, his mannerisms; one man is blunt and another is polished to a fault. We must learn to think in terms of GODS WORK IN GODS WAY —- how does this mans work contribute to or hinder the purposes of GOD? Then, we will hear more of this strange commendation of a man for his God service, and we may even learn to like him.