“Know thyself” is an ancient philosophical proposition.  Scripture gives some insight on why this is so hard, “the heart is desperately wicked, WHO CAN KNOW IT?” Couple that with this statement “all men are liars” and “we have a problem Houston”!  Authenticity is hard to arrive at as a person or as a pastor! Honesty and knowledge go hand in hand in creating a life and or a ministry that is real (authentic) and not fabricated.  We must know first of all that we are unique in creation (as a human) and recreation (as a saint). This DNA of all we are, on both the physical and on the spiritual side, is essential for creating a proper image of our self and of our pastoral profession.

I heard a person say once that most of the people who enter the pulpit ministry are emotionally ill.  It certainly draws the wounded bird for sure.  Some have guilt to work off and others just have a need to be needed.  They are preacher junkies!  This type of leadership has worked havoc on our churches time and again.  To be authentic means to be healthy in heart and knowledgeable in mind about God’s work and purpose for calling us to lead in His church. Authenticity is hard work, it is not an accident.  A truly authentic pastor spends time learning about himself and people.  It is not healthy to use the ministry to cover our sickness or weakness and lead people to think we are something we are not.  It is not healthy to copy others and become someone else other than who you are.  God called you just the way you are and His Word and the Holy Spirit is constantly working in us to make us men of truth (authenticity).
Just a note of caution, there are proper boundaries in ministry that we need to understand.  Authenticity is not standing naked before your people. Good common (or uncommon) sense can go a long way in ministry.  There are some things know one wants to know about  you.  We actually are not that interesting anyway.

Authentic pastors need authentic mentors and good accountability partners to be honest with.  Most pastors are lone rangers and are dangerous to themselves, their families, and their churches.  We are always in need of growth and development, “study to show yourself approved”. Authentic pastors must become good mentors to other preachers, “be thou and example of the believers in word, conversation, and deed”.  Authenticity is a life long journey!  Come on preacher buddies, let’s get real ( and reasonably transparent).

LP

General note:  I am married to Carolyn and we have three children and four grandchildren.  I have been at Rejoice for thirty six and one half years.  I am a FWBBC grad in the class of 1970