Much already written in this series indicates the relationship between a preacher and the church with which he works. Such matters as his primary responsibility in heralding the Word of salvation, the scope of gospel preaching, his right to locate with a congregation, the carnal tactics that he might face, his humility in relation to his work and to others with whom he will work (such as elders), and his influence on others based on his own family relationship were covered. The reason for the emphases in these articles is that his work will be impossible at worst and impeded at best if he fails to attend to these matters.

Another area of importance is his relation to the congregation. With all previous considerations assumed as the foundation for his work, we here consider some other practical matters. In relating to people in the local church, an evangelist must remember that he is responsible first to Christ and then to the church. All of his dealings with the church must conform to Christ's will. When it is possible for him to please both Christ and the church, he ought to try to do so. Occasional teaching about an evangelist's relation to Christ and the church will provide a strong foundation for understanding about such matters. Because he works with the church, he needs to have an agreement about the time that he can spend in preaching elsewhere. The church should respect his responsibility to preach where he has opportunity, but he should also respect the church's need for him to be part of their local work. Application of the principles of respect and consideration taught by the Lord will help both parties in this relationship (Mt. 7:12). While it is not his duty to visit the sick, the sorrowing, or the lost for the congregation, he has a duty as a Christian to do such (Mt. 25:31-46). Some have taken little responsibility in these areas because of their arrogant assumption that a preacher has more important work to do and ought not to have to condescend to this level. A preacher who will not humble himself to "wash the feet" of his brethren or friends will lose his influence with most people, if he ever had any. What a time for showing the compassion of Christ! In this he does the Lord's work. Such occasions as sickness, death, and tragedy provide the basis for rich friendships and opportunities for pointing souls heavenward. As a practical means of developing close relationships, it would be advisable for a newly located preacher to visit all families in the congregation. Such time will be well spent for it will provide him the appreciation, closeness, and regard of the members, which will in turn make for a more solid and enduring work (1 Cor. 16:15-16). Out of new relationships will spring opportunities for the stranger in town to begin teaching the saved and the lost.