Miller: Indications a man is called to preach

LITTLE ROCK – Identifying and understanding one’s calling is critical for pastors as they seek to effectively use their gifts for God’s glory, Hollie Miller shared during the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Pastors’ Conference at First Baptist Church, Little Rock.

Miller, pastor of Sevier Heights Baptist Church, Knoxville, Tenn., shared “indications a man is called to preach” from 1 Timothy.

Miller said, “There is a spirit of humility in his heart.” Referring to 1 Tim 1:12, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service,” Miller said there must be a spirit of humility and inadequacy.

Also, “There is a commitment to godliness,” said Miller, adding pastors should have a burden to live a godly lifestyle. “I can hardly remember a sermon my pastor preached when I was growing up, but I remember he lived a godly life,” he added.

“The presence of a (spiritual) gift,” is another indication a man is called to preach, said Miller, referring to 1 Tim. 3:2-3, “An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money.” 

There is “the recognition of others,” said Miller. “Other men of God will begin to see in you that God has set you apart in some way.”

Miller warned that for every one of the indications of calling to preach, there are indications of “danger for the pastor.”

“Men, watch out for pride. I am amazed how much pride and ego there is (out there) ... Remember, peacock today, feather duster tomorrow."

He warned pastors not to “lose the passion” and to allow their “call to become a career.” 

“If God called you to preach, spend time getting ready to preach. Stay with your spiritual gift. Watch out for spiritual carelessness ... I'm talking about giving the very best you have to God,” Miller said.