Faithful Pastors

A little gem from C. F. W. Walther, on faithful pastors:

Faithful pastors must not only avoid being lukewarm or cold. They also must be warm. Their hearts must burn with love for their Savior, Jesus, and for the congregation that their Savior has entrusted to their care, so that they may be able to say with St. Paul and all the apostles: "For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you."....

Every sincere preacher and minister of Jesus Christ should demonstrate much enthusiasm and earnest determination, even if the congregation responds with disdain, hatred, and enmity. A sincere pastor will suffer such experiences rather than gain anyone for himself by downplaying the truth, hiding it, or dulling its sharp points."

C. F. W. Walther, Law and Gospel: How to Read and Apply the Bible, 342