HOW CHURCH MEMBERS SHOULD TREAT THEIR PRIESTS

How a Church member should treat his or her Priest is very important because the way we treat spiritual leadership affects the health of the Church and our own spiritual growth.

Here are biblical ways a Church member should treat their pastor:

1. With Honor and Respect
1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour…”
A Priest deserves honor, not because he is perfect, but because of the office he occupies.
Avoid insults, mockery, or careless familiarity.

2. With Prayer Support
Priests face spiritual battles members may never see.
Hebrews 13:18 – “Pray for us…”
1 Thessalonians 5:25 – “Brethren, pray for us.”
Instead of criticizing your Priest, pray for his strength, wisdom, health, and family.

3. With Obedience to Godly Leadership
Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves…”
If the pastor is leading according to Scripture, members should cooperate and support the vision.

4. With Financial and Practical Support
Galatians 6:6 – “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.”
Support your Priest materially and practically so he can focus on ministry.

5. Avoid Gossip and False Accusations
1 Timothy 5:19 – “Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.”
Do not entertain rumors. Protect your church from division.

6. Show Appreciation
A simple “Thank you, Reverend” goes a long way. Encourage him when sermons bless you.
1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 – “…esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.”

7. Support the Vision of the Church
Every Priest carries a God-given vision. A loyal member works to build, not compete.
Psalm 133:1 – “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

8. Correct Him Properly If Necessary
Priests are human. If there is a genuine concern:
Speak respectfully
Follow biblical order (Matthew 18:15)
Avoid public embarrassment

Note:
A Church member should treat their Priests with:
(A).Honor
(B).Prayer
(C).Loyalty
(D).Obedience (within biblical limits)
(E).Encouragement
(F).Love

When members treat their Priests well, the Church becomes strong, peaceful, and spiritually fruitful.

©Worldwide Anglican Church 2026