The Pastor’s Calling & The Pastor’s War | 1 Timothy 1:18–20

What does it really mean to be a pastor? In this message from , Pastor Sam Kraemer walks through 1 Timothy 1:18–20 and shows how this passage functions as a kind of job description for church leaders—and a guide for the whole church. The Apostle Paul charges Timothy to "wage the good warfare", reminding him that ministry is not passive—it is a calling marked by responsibility, courage, and spiritual battle. In this sermon, we explore two essential truths: 1. A Pastor Must Be Called to the Ministry Pastoral ministry is not something someone simply chooses—it is something God confirms. There is an inward call: a Spirit-given desire to serve Christ and His church. There is an outward call: a recognition and affirmation from the church that a man is gifted and qualified. This matters not only for pastors—but for the church. Because the church is responsible to recognize, test, and affirm faithful leaders. 2. A Pastor Must Be Ready to Wage War Ministry is not just teaching—it is spiritual warfare. Pastors are called to fight: Satan, the enemy who seeks to destroy Sin, which wages war against the soul False teaching, which threatens the truth of the gospel Paul's warning is sobering: some have shipwrecked their faith. And yet, even in hard cases, church discipline exists not to punish—but to restore.