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PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT, JUNE 11, 1982
PAGE 4
Often such a sermon can cause quite a stir in other areas, with questions
from brethren like, "Why doesn't our minister preach on that subject?" or
"What's our minister trying to hide from us?" In some cases, the minister
may have been planning sermons on that very subject, only to be preempted by
a tape from another congregation.
Normally, local sermons and Bible studies are geared to the local congrega
tion where they are given. The minister has been preparing that congrega
tion for the message, and may say things that would be perfectly under
standable to that congregation, but that may be misconstrued or misinter
preted by another one which does not have the same background.
Pastors should see to it that tapes of sermons in their local congregations
are not indiscriminately circulated to other churches or individuals, but
remain only in the local church library.
If you find that brethren in your congregation are from time to time listen
ing to tapes of messages from other local areas that they have received from
friends or relatives and no real problem or question comes of it, don't
worry about it. However, if a problem does arise, try to handle it by
explaining the principles written above and helping them to see why some
statements can be misinterpreted. Also, explain to them that's the reason
why it is not good to be circulating the tape to others. But don't make an
issue out of it. Treat it tactfully and in a low-keyed manner. After alT;°
the tapes� sermons from God's ministers, not contraband.
If a minister desires to listen to a tape of another minister's sermon for
his own edification and enrichment, that is fine. But he should not play
that tape for his congregation. If he feels the message would be an impor
tant one for his congregation, he should give it himself, designing the
message for the needs of his own congregation, but using the tape only as a
resource.
The only tapes that should be played for Sabbath services or Bible studies
are those sent from Headquarters marked, "to be played in all churches." If
any question arises about whether or not a tape should be played, or if you
feel you need to play another minister's tape for your congregation for
some special reason, please call in.
For those ministers who are receiving tapes from Pasadena on a regular or
irregular basis, these tapes should be used for your personal edification
or instruction, not to replace your messages to your congregation. These
tapes should not be placed in your church library. If your church library
contains tapes of Bible studies or sermons, they should only be those which
have been given in your congregation.
Your cooperation will help to keep the confusion and questions regarding
tapes to a minimum.
Appreciation for the Second Ministerial Refreshing Program
Dear Mr. Armstrong:
Thank you for the second refreshing program. Like the first it
gave us time to drink in and digest the spiritual feast and
recharge our batteries.