Mike’s Musings ….
Iron Sharpenenth Iron
“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17)
Where does the doctor go when he needs to see a good physician? Where does the barber go when he needs a good haircut? Obviously, they go to others in the same profession; others they trust to do for them that which they would do should circumstances be reversed. (Matthew 7:12). Likewise, gospel preachers go to those who will do for them that which they would do should circumstances be reversed. “Iron sharpened iron” means “like minds sharpen each other.” This past Thursday morning, four gospel preachers did just that – we endeavored to sharpen each other’s minds!
As we chatted before our study, we noted that each of us had mentors who helped to shape us into the preachers we are today. We noted how we miss such men of strong understanding and then realized we must sharpen each other! We are the older ones now (the youngest in the group is forty-three). While we endeavor to help shape younger minds who express a willingness to preach the gospel, we realize we must keep ourselves sharp in the grace and knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18). None of us are exempt from teaching the gospel, nor are we exempt from continuously learning the gospel!
I muse on this reality: If time continues, there will be a need for gospel preachers and some men will endeavor to fill that need. Some of us continue to admire the vivacious way our mentors proclaimed God’s truth and ponder if we have in any way “softened” its effectiveness. We also muse as to whether we have been able to sharpen not only our minds but also those of others who are endeavoring to continue in the work. Much more, have we been able to influence younger minds to take up the sword, and faithfully learn to use it! If not, why not? It isn’t about making a name for ourselves: it’s about the power of God (Romans 1:16 – 17). Let us keep sharpening one another in the most holy faith, and encouraging other men to become committed to preaching.