Paul is not delivering his personal opinion; he is delivering the message of Christ. He is the messenger of Christ and on that basis, he is addressing these believers as the one sent by Christ. Think about how the church should view the pastor as he delivers God’s Word. On what terms is he speaking to the people?

In our culture, many people think that the pastor is speaking his own opinion. But the pastor is not accountable to people. He is accountable to Christ. Thus, the congregation needs to come to church with the understanding that the Word it hears is not the pastor’s opinion, that he is not coming in his own authority, but that he is sent by Christ the King. This will affect the manner in which you listen to the Word of God.

The pastor needs a correct view of himself and the office to which he is called. Christ is the one who called you to the ministry. Therefore, if you deliver God’s message as intended by him, the church is bound to listen.