Due Diligence

Due Diligence
Words of Faith 6-1-2023
Dr. Jeffrey D. Hoy © 2023
Jeff.Hoy@faithfellowshipweb.com
Faith Fellowship Church - Melbourne, FL
www.faithfellowshipweb.com
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1 Timothy 4
[13] Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. [14] Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. [15] Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. [16] Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

I learned a long time ago that the goal of a preacher is not to make the biggest splash but to be consistent over time. It is not the single meal that determines value but the quality of the balanced menu over the years. Little tricks and fads don't produce much fruit. But a preacher who is as faithful as possible-- diligent each day, each week, each year-- will see fruit over time. Progress is the point. Not perfection.
Paul commended reading, preaching, and teaching, but this was only part of the picture when he advised this young Timothy. The pastor or minister must watch his life and doctrine closely. A shepherd is responsible for the feeding and care of the flock. An unfed shepherd has no food. God works through the shepherd even in spite of us at times, but much is entrusted to the shepherd. Salvation is ministered through the life and teaching of a pastor. Because of this, due diligence is necessary.
Due Diligence is a term used to describe the careful performance of an investigation, usually of a business or person, or the performance of an act with a certain standard of care. Due Diligence can be a legal obligation, but it commonly applies to voluntary investigations. Paul called for personal "Due Diligence" on the minister's part. Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
No, Paul was not saying that a believer does not have direct access to God through Jesus apart from a pastor-teacher or leader. But a pastor must never take their place of influence and care lightly. Lifestyle is important, and so is doctrine. Frankly, this is different from the stuff we put down on an application or write one time in an ordination paper.
Paul is talking about the daily due diligence of walking with God and examining one's life before Him. Paul is talking about more than just checking in with God for weekly inspiration. Paul is talking about persevering in the dynamic and personal walk with God that fuels an authentic life and genuine spiritual leadership.

Father God, help me in the Due Diligence of my walk with You. Help me see any barriers that keep me from growing in You or walking with You. Help me to discover the depth of Your gifting in my life. Help me carefully walk in conduct and doctrine in ways that honor and glorify You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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© Jeffrey D. Hoy 2023
Dr. Jeffrey D. Hoy - Faith Fellowship Church (EFCA)
2820 Business Center Blvd.
Melbourne, Florida 32940 (321)-259-7200
Jeff.Hoy@faithfellowshipweb.com
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