New Zealand is known as one of the countries with a well-established welfare system. The easiest example is that all hospital consultations and treatments are provided free of charge. Among the most notable systems is the ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation). When an accident occurs, the state takes responsibility for everything—from handling the accident to treatment and aftercare. Although the process can be somewhat slow in non-emergency cases, overall, it has been positively received and is regarded as an effective system.

As a recent example, I myself once slipped and fell in a rather silly way a few months ago. As a result, I injured my tailbone and suffered unbearable pain. I could neither sit nor lie down properly. In such cases, one can receive chiropractic treatment, along with a proper diagnosis through ACC. Once a diagnosis is made, a unique claim number is issued, which also allows supplementary treatments such as acupuncture or moxibustion from an oriental medical practitioner. I personally received chiropractic treatment five times over the course of five weeks.

In addition, I visited an oriental medicine doctor once a week for twelve weeks. The severe pain subsided remarkably within just four days, but since the remaining treatments were covered under ACC, I continued with them. These treatments were more than just medical care; they also served as an opportunity to restore balance to my body and relieve muscle tension—a kind of “bonus,” so to speak. During each visit, the practitioner would repeat the same remarks: “Oh, your muscles are very tight.” “Your posture is not good.” “Please stretch regularly.” He would even demonstrate the stretches for me. I would try them occasionally when I remembered, but soon I would forget. Then, when I returned the following week, I would hear the same comments again.

If I had continued these visits for twelve weeks, by now it would make sense for me to have developed the habit of stretching regularly for my health. Yet, sadly, that is still not the case. But is this really only my story? Upon reflection, I realize that a similar pattern is often found in the ministry as well. Having served as a pastor for over 25 years, I believe I have developed some discernment in observing the spiritual condition of my congregation. Sometimes, just by the way a person sits in worship or the attitude with which they participate, I can sense their spiritual state.

For example, those who are always late to worship will always find some excuse to justify their lateness. Those who are distracted during worship always seem to have a reason as well. But spiritually speaking, such people are like patients in need of treatment. When a pastor exhorts or counsels them, they often nod their heads and say, “Yes, yes.” Yet by the following week, they return to the same patterns again.

So should pastors or church members continue repeating such exhortations? Yes, absolutely. They must be repeated. For this is not mere nagging. It is a process of awakening oneself, a work of cleansing hidden sin through repetition. Sanctification is still an ongoing journey.