Sermon
The Goal is Love, a Message for Leaders
Stonebrook Community Church
Speaker: Matt Heerema, with Brad Barrett
January 15, 2025 · 17 min
LeadershipIdentity in ChristSpiritual DisciplinesChurch / Ecclesiology1 Timothy 1:5–61 Corinthians 31 Corinthians 4:1–5
Summary
Using 1 Timothy 1:5, the pastor argues that church growth should never be the primary goal; instead, leaders must operate from love flowing from a pure heart, good conscience, and sincere faith. Authentic ministry means serving without ulterior motives, maintaining accountability within community, and clinging to historic Christian faith—trusting God for the growth while leaders simply plant and water.
Highlights
Ministry cannot be about you. Ministry can't be about me. Ministry can't be about your reputation. Ministry can't be about your identity being fulfilled.
I'm gonna be faithful as I can with as clear of a conscience as I can have, with as pure heart as I can have, and as sincere of a faith as I can have on this planet. And then I'm gonna wait for judgment day.
Clear conscience is a community project. If somebody is telling you something is up, you should listen.