Sine Timore Aut Favore (2): A Motto for Preachers
Barry Gritters reflects on the Latin motto 'Sine Timore Aut Favore' (without fear or favor) as a standard for faithful pastoral preaching. The article examines how ministers can gradually fall into guilty silence on certain sins due to fear of congregational displeasure or loss of favor, rather than through doctrinal reconsideration, and appeals to Scripture's warnings against this compromise of prophetic witness.
Previous article in this series: January 15, 2015, p 173. Sine Timore Aut Favore is the old Latin expression for "without fear or favor." An older elder always used these words when he prayed before the consistory entered into the sanctuary for worship: "Lord, fortify our pastor to preach without fear or favor." That is, enable him to preach and apply truth without fearing the reactions of any who may hurt him, and without favoring any who may continue to give him gifts if he remains silent...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org