Dad Is The Pastor

If there has been one consistent theme that I have been sensing among pastors and denominational leaders from all evangelical backgrounds is that we are weak on evangelism. The gospel is being proclaimed from the pulpit, but not from the pew. I think that there are many factors that have contributed to this but one of the greatest is the breakdown of Biblical Christian community in the home.

Billy Graham once said, "If your Christianity does not work at home, don't export it." In that regard, it may be to the credit of many families that they don't bother to evangelize the lost. I believe that one of the best means to improving our evangelistic efforts, however, is to strengthen Christian community in the home. This has to begin with male leadership. I don't know whether it was the dads abrogating their roles or pastors taking it from them that has led us to where we are but both are wrong and must be avoided. Dads need to be taught, encouraged, and held accountable by their fellow male believers that they are to be the pastors for their families first. Dads should be initiating regular family worship and prayer time with their families and discipling their children in Biblical wisdom. Its not a suggestion it is an imperative (Deut. 6). I'd be willing to bet that if our Christianity began to work at home we wouldn't be having discussions as pastors on how to improve our evangelism. But then what do I know, I'm just a modern day puritan.

A godly man promotes religion in his family; he sets up piety in his house as well as in his heart…. A godly man's house is a little church…. A good man makes known the oracles of God to those who are under his roof. He reads the Word and perfumes his house with prayer.
Thomas Watson—A Godly Man's Picture

The Puritan Way

In my study of the Puritans, I have learned that stereotyping is satans way of keeping us from goodness. The Puritans, as a lot, have been far too criticized and looked over as antiquated and backwards. I am learning to look at these our spiritual fathers in a whole "new light" (no pun intended Daniel and Shubal). Consider the following:

1. Puritans had a much better sense of humor than you might expect.
2. They didn't go around lifeless, dull, and dispassionate (in fact it was quite the opposite was true.)
3. They knew what it meant to make churches out of their families with Dad's serving as pastors.
4. They were intent on authentic worship and discipleship.
5. They believed in social action and reached into the community to help all in need.

If you have a hard time believing this, I urge you to surf over to itunes and look for the itunes U section. There you will find a series of wonderful lectures by Dr. J.I. Packer on all aspects of Puritan ideology, philosophy, and practical pursuits. The best part of all is that these podcasts are 100% free. Take advantage of this glimpse into the real life of Puritanism. What you find might just surprise you.

Click on this link to go to the Packer podcast lectures.