Pastoral maturity involves moving from self-confidence and reliance on one's own abilities to a deeper dependence on God's grace and promises, recognizing that weakness and humility are actually how God intends us to serve.
Traditional funerals openly address death and help believers prepare with biblical hope, unlike "celebrations of life" that may downplay grief and theology.
Long-term commitment and faithfulness, rather than seeking quick success or larger platforms, are essential for meaningful growth and lasting impact in ministry.
Richard Baxter’s The Reformed Pastor highlights the need for pastors to care for themselves and their congregations through personal holiness, understanding their flock, and engaging in pastoral work, especially personal instruction and catechesis.
