How do we know that true ministers are like clouds?

The analogy of ministers as clouds is deeply rooted in their role as conveyors of spiritual truths. Just as clouds gather water and release it to sustain the earth, true ministers receive teaching and grace from God, which they then convey to their congregations. The parallel draws from Deuteronomy 32:2 where doctrine is likened to rain that nourishes tender herbs. Moreover, ministers must be filled with the Spirit's gifts to effectively communicate God's Word, thereby producing fruit in the lives of believers. Therefore, their effectiveness as spiritual leaders depends upon their relationship to the 'Fountain of all fullness'—Christ Himself.