Evil disqualifies a person from this type of charge. Leadership isn't received because of natural charisma, but by doing things according to GOD's will. The dedicated leader doesn't believe solely in things that he sees but, through faith, he sees beyond those things. 2) The butler-servant or administrator: from the Greek oikonomos or oikonomis, which means "butler", such as a pastor nowadays. Complete selflessness (Acts 26:19) 3:1-13) The unanimity was spiritual and practical, not just theological, since we see that they shared their lives and possessions. 19. The characteristics that the leaders of the church should possess are carefully outlined in verses 1-13 and in Titus 1:5-9. Links. The impious leaders of the world consult the horoscope and diviners, in search of directions for their lives, but pious Christian leaders seek the direction of the LORD 1) through the written Word, the Bible, and 2) through dreams and visions (2:17). Home 14. Signs, miracles and wonders aren't chance acts, but evidence of divine anointing, which should be sought and welcomed. 1) Many are called sovereignly. 8. The ability to lead doesn't rest on human righteousness, but in the receptivity one has to hear GOD's voice. 28:1,2) Vulnerability means to be totally frank, hiding nothing and refusing to defend yourself. Jesus demonstrated the psychological security essential to being a servant-leader. The answer resides in the fact that after each error David repented; and something equally important: he learned from his own mistakes. 4:1,2; II Tim. 9:19-22). The leader doesn't condition his appeal to the sentiments or moods of the moment. 21. And, above all, he paid attention and listened to GOD's prophets. The characteristics that the leaders of the church should possess are carefully outlined in verses 1-13 and in Titus 1:5-9. Almost always when we read about David, he is doing something wrong; however, GOD praised the essence of his leadership. Almost always when we read about David, he is doing something wrong; however, GOD praised the essence of his leadership. John reprimanded the religious (v.8), called people to be generous (verses 10,11), denounced dishonesty (verses 12,13) and demanded a just administration of authority (v.14). However, the calling that leaders experience is different, and exhibits distinct modalities. `Ie%;z/SH 4 ao3\|7A?s$tf8YStHS}:P;/,j~>]pAwxw2pCyWJFwSj^e7D"C,/.J%}HQ~Qv-=u3;8X[Zk~os|#~rw)z>jBpM<3N+c'Q,mtQshs@LxBZs&yuHcbcw!67h+s|[}MzH:| ~yx:f44RF)G+(EMc&>-h9#dqdhpEQ`%OrLP0WR*+[ Dgkm(6iyxs!xUH7hZ hHWQEH#Nu?Ds3$YCK0L7JX $1! Unbelief sees the obstacles, faith sees GOD. Jesus' tribute to the ministry of John the Baptist (Matt. Evaluation of character (I Tim. Although Gideon wisely refused to serve as king of Israel (8:23), upon his death, his son Abimelech hired some assassins to kill his brothers in the hope of taking the government into his hands. Instead, an evaluation is made of the leader's ethic and morals, sustained and proven. 16:13-20) Site Index 12:2). The servant-leader fulfills his functions being sure of himself, that is, knowing what GOD has entrusted to him, and resting on the confidence that GOD's hand orders his personal destiny (see this in v.3, in regards to Jesus). 4. The word says, literally, "administrator of the house", a position generally fulfilled by a slave in the 1st century of the Christian era. Surely, with Gods calling comes Gods enabling. By Jesus refusing to defend himself on the night of his arrest, Peter's protective action caused the High Priest's servant lose an ear. Abraham's ability to lead was proved in three areas of faith: 1) Faith to risk (12:1-5). {V/nDl g;F#U0wd[v"ofQP?|c'CjCtie1Z:`tqxvmc/6_W*2`as>rM]B-`Hry+kwZ>vL^h:sVB1+"EYPjvTj[wR=OWTAmIB 0H. 2:3,4), who gives his life for others (John 10:11), who seeks to serve before being served (Luke 22:27). One of the tasks of the Holy Spirit is calling leaders consecrated to the kingdom. Leaders are subject to more rigid standards in order to exemplify Jesus in their conduct, words and actions. On his missionary journey, Paul planned a journey to the north, to Bithynia. 6:8,9) However, the calling that leaders experience is different, and exhibits distinct modalities. 11:29). The apostle adapted to cultural, social and political changes and, in this way, never lost his relevant position (I Cor. And while they waited on GOD, the Holy Spirit instructed them (v.2). Humility (Judges 6:1-8;35) But this mandate, itself, is effective in the increase of the life of the gospel when it's obeyed by leaders who first live the truth, purity and power of the gospel. He reads the Word of God and good books consistently. The apostle adapted to cultural, social and political changes and, in this way, never lost his relevant position (I Cor. 10. The apostles established the foundation for the role of a leader: 1) Perfect the saints for a fruitful life and the work of the ministry (Eph.
2) "You will take with you" (from the Hebrew veatta hakrev, 28:1). 2) Others are called through human beings. He seeks, asks for, and uses Gods wisdom. 20:26-28). Their minds are cleansed of impurity (II Cor. GOD judges leaders, not in terms of what they achieve, but in the manner that they do things. 7:13,14; 22:14; John 15:16). 12:28). 2. 8:19,20; 9:1,12). She assigned him the task of recruiting an army to defeat Sisera; she wasn't afraid to become an example of valor and heroism by offering herself as bait for the ambush. Jotham, his youngest brother and the only one who escaped, climbed Mount Gerizim and prophesied that a kingdom founded on sin would soon be undone, and three years later, this happened. When Jesus took the towel and washbasin to wash the feet of his disciples, he not only assumed the humble role of the servant, but he evidenced psychological security, essential in a leader. The leader who inspires others constitutes a model of integrity and valor. Occasionally, the leader directs by putting an arm around his subordinates to affirm them, encourage them or identify with them. The dominant idea among the leaders of the New Testament was that the ministry belonged to the Christian community in its totality. She assigned him the task of recruiting an army to defeat Sisera; she wasn't afraid to become an example of valor and heroism by offering herself as bait for the ambush. 2:3,4), who gives his life for others (John 10:11), who seeks to serve before being served (Luke 22:27). The child Samuel was called while he slept (I Sam. But, we realize that no confusion exists in the divine order when we see that there are two types of leaders in the Bible, since both are necessary in a healthy and balanced church or organization. Peter's answer (v.16) transcended human possibilities; thus Jesus commented that such a response came from GOD (v.17). Abraham's ability to lead was proved in three areas of faith: 1) Faith to risk (12:1-5). But this mandate, itself, is effective in the increase of the life of the gospel when it's obeyed by leaders who first live the truth, purity and power of the gospel. 6. The preliminaries for receiving GOD's guidance through dreams and visions are the Word of GOD and a mind that is transformed and inclined toward things from above. But that night he dreamed about a man who said, "Come to Macedonia and help us" (v.9). Humility (Judges 6:1-8;35) The leaders of the kingdom, however, are judged not so much by what they achieve, as by the character that they reveal, that is, according to what they are, and not what they do. He knows the difference between ambition and vision. David was humble and someone ready to learn; he listened to his critics and the prophets. This high standard is applied not so much to the leader's successes as to the state of his heart and his spirit. Gideon offers seven keys for a devout leadership, characterized by his humility and disposition to serve. 3) he was alert to changes. Joshua was continually confronted with various alternatives, and the majority of his decisions went against popular opinion. He told the 300 who remained with him to observe and follow his example (7:17); 5) he gave the glory to GOD before and after the victory (7:15; 8:3,23); 6) he humbly gave credit to others who truly deserved it *8:1-3); 7) he refused to establish a dynasty after having fulfilled the divine charge (8:22,23). Joshua was continually confronted with various alternatives, and the majority of his decisions went against popular opinion. 12. As long as a person isn't inclined to wash the feet of others, he isn't qualified to be a leader of the kingdom. 6. He gives his followers autonomy, and not only deals with them as individuals, but encourages their individual initiative. The administrative leader (I Cor. Fearlessness (Luke 3:1-20) The New Testament recognizes three types of administrative leaders: deacon, steward and supervisor. Because of this dream or vision, the Apostle changed his route. Abraham knew that sacrificing his son would destroy any hope of fulfilling the promise that pointed him out as the future father of many nations. Being vulnerable as a leader means staying totally open to everyone else, without hiding anything, and refusing to defend oneself. Miracles, wonders and signs were commonly accepted in the early church; and the leaders took the initiative in making room for this ministry. Thus was how the missionary work was initiated, through which, finally, the gospel must be preached to all the world. The wise leader knows when to loosen the reins, but he won't give up full control until GOD indicates it. The servant-leader fulfills his functions being sure of himself, that is, knowing what GOD has entrusted to him, and resting on the confidence that GOD's hand orders his personal destiny (see this in v.3, in regards to Jesus). Truth in Action He lived what he wrote, "because the gifts and calling of GOD are irrevocable" (Rom. Consecrated leaders do things the way GOD does. Kybernesis is a Greek term taken from life by the sea, and is used to designate the helmsman or pilot who keeps the boat on course. The pious leader is one who is inclined to help others, who considers everyone else above himself (Phil. The dedicated leader doesn't believe solely in things that he sees but, through faith, he sees beyond those things. Faith (Gen. 12:1-20; 17:1-27; 22:1-19) In Antioch, the prophets and teachers fasted and prayed in search of GOD's direction for the church. Lead the way GOD does (Judges 8:22,23; 9:1-57) 3:1-18). 13. The leader who seeks to benefit himself, at the cost of others, is on the path to self-destruction. Gideon understood that GOD wanted Israel to be a theocracy (GOD as King). Unbelief sees the obstacles, faith sees GOD. Leaders should be mature people and show a high ethic; otherwise, the leader should accept being removed till his conduct is verified. The leader who seeks to benefit himself, at the cost of others, is on the path to self-destruction. Fearlessness (Luke 3:1-20)
1:7); 3) The leader who manages the helm or the supervisor who fulfills the role of apostle or bishop. He was humble and modest, but in crucial moments, when clear and firm decisions were necessary, he was exacting and authoritative. The basis for a permanent ministry is a sustained dedication. The leaders in the New Testament agreed as much in spiritual as practical things. 4:8-11; 11:23-33). Occasionally, the leader directs by putting an arm around his subordinates to affirm them, encourage them or identify with them. Servant Leadership for the Local Church. There is no better way to develop leadership than to give a person a job and let him realize it. The supervisor should intervene and take charge of the situation, always when the delegated leader moves in the wrong direction or there is some type of confusion. Lead the way GOD does (Judges 8:22,23; 9:1-57) Thus was how the missionary work was initiated, through which, finally, the gospel must be preached to all the world. High standards of leadership (James 3:1) If a leader abandons these ethical standards, he or she must accept to be stripped of the leadership duties, until an adequate time transpires for a new verification of his character (Gal. Moses' authority came from GOD by direct revelation (33:11), while that of Aaron came from his office, through divine indication. 2:2). Then the LORD declared, emphatically, that the leadership in his Church would act and rest, not on human ability to reason, but rather on its readiness and receptivity to hear GOD through "revelatory knowledge", or rather, those things that GOD manifests through the work of the Holy Spirit (Eph. Kingdom Dynamics Also, the leaders of the early church prayed for miracles (Acts 4:30), and saw them, not as casual acts or occasional successes, but as evidences of the anointing of GOD in those who continually glorified Christ throughout the Church, and that, consequently, should be sought and well-received. The spiritual advance requires faith, and unbelief never sees anything but difficulties. Paul was totally dedicated to the task of spreading the gospel and establishing churches in all the then known world. Gideon demonstrated sever characteristics of the consecrated leader: 1) unwillingness to govern unless GOD called him (6:36-40); 2) continual dependence on GOD (7:1-8); 3) willingness to turn faith into action (6:25-27; 7:15-22); 4) disposition to use the gifts that GOD gave him to lead others. By Jesus refusing to defend himself on the night of his arrest, Peter's protective action caused the High Priest's servant lose an ear. The consecrated leader should call people to raise their faith in GOD, not to follow prevalent opinion. Subscribe today and receive a FREE minibook download: StrivingTogether for the Cause of Christ. 8:19,20; 9:1,12). This manifests a character trait of leaders who are guided by the Holy Spirit. Both directed the people toward the future, resisting the adoption of a negative attitude and helping raise a new generation that would serve GOD in faith. Moses didn't have special vestments, but Aaron needed "sacred vestments", that gave him beauty and glory (28:2).
The leader who inspires others constitutes a model of integrity and valor. The unanimity was spiritual and practical, not just theological, since we see that they shared their lives and possessions. 3:1-18). All men and women are "called" to GOD (Rom. John the Baptist began his prophetic ministry not only with the positive message of announcing the coming of the Messiah, but bravely calling the people to repentance It would have been much easier to simply proclaim the good news, but John was obedient to the prophetic ministry that challenged people in their careless attitude and their sins. And, above all, he paid attention and listened to GOD's prophets. GOD's voice (Matt. Unity and harmony (Acts 1:14) 12:28). 12:2). His life demonstrated three basic concepts of leadership: 1) he was dedicated to the goals and spirit of his calling (Phil. The dual character of spiritual authority, represented by Moses and Aaron, is something necessary and complimentary. Unbelief sees "walled cities and giants", rather than the presence and power of GOD. Paul was totally dedicated to the task of spreading the gospel and establishing churches in all the then known world. His biblical vision has led the church to become one of the most dynamic independent Baptist churches in the nation. 1:17,18; 3:14-19). Few things induce a greater reaction in people than the sense of dealing with someone who sympathizes with and understands their needs, which they find when the leader shows meekness and self-assurance. Dr. Paul Chappell is the senior pastor of the Lancaster Baptist Church and president of West Coast Baptist College in Lancaster, California. Signs, miracles and wonders (Acts 2:22) In I Timothy 3 and Titus 1 much attention is paid to details, but here James reminds those who are in a position of leadership, that they would be considered responsible regarding following the example of Jesus Christ, as much in spirit and the conduct that they manifest, as in their words and attitudes. In contrast with his humble father, Abimelech was ambitious, believing that the end justifies the means. 3:1-4:17). Following are 20 attributes that I believe characterize the life and leadership style of a biblical, Christ-like leader: This list could intimidate us because none of us can embody these qualities on our own. Kybernesis is a Greek term taken from life by the sea, and is used to designate the helmsman or pilot who keeps the boat on course. 3. Authority (Exod. 18. Everyone leads someone. Joshua and Caleb were prepared to do what was unpopular and called the people to a positive faith. Resist popular opinion (Num. The inspired leader supplies a model of integrity and courage while fulfilling his functions with a high level of excellence. But if there are no problems with the leaders' heart, the good behavior will always com after, and good leadership will be manifested. 5. Signs, miracles and wonders (Acts 2:22) 5 0 obj Every person who enjoys great popularity, has a strong will, or a prophetic vision, needs an Aaron, the priest who ministers most directly to the peoples' needs. He is submissive to and filled with the Holy Spirit of God. The lifestyle and lessons of Jesus established a model for a new class of leader: the servant-leader (Matt. He told the 300 who remained with him to observe and follow his example (7:17); 5) he gave the glory to GOD before and after the victory (7:15; 8:3,23); 6) he humbly gave credit to others who truly deserved it *8:1-3); 7) he refused to establish a dynasty after having fulfilled the divine charge (8:22,23). Only one man is designated in the Bible as someone close to GOD's heart; the man who enjoyed such happiness was David, the king of Israel. 4:11,12); and 2) Pass the truth on to successive "generations" of converts, that is, commit it "to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (II Tim. The apostles established the foundation for the role of a leader: 1) Perfect the saints for a fruitful life and the work of the ministry (Eph. The young Isaiah was worshiping in the temple when he was called by GOD (Is. 1:7); 3) The leader who manages the helm or the supervisor who fulfills the role of apostle or bishop. GOD called Moses and directly commanded him: "take charge" (from the Hebrew veatta). The wise leader knows when to loosen the reins, but he won't give up full control until GOD indicates it. 2) Faith to trust (17:1-27). This manifests a character trait of leaders who are guided by the Holy Spirit. In contrast with his humble father, Abimelech was ambitious, believing that the end justifies the means. 11. 18. The discipline of prayer and fasting form part, through divine mandate, of the life of leaders. The dedicated leader is prepared to risk all for his trust in GOD and to adventure into the unknown. The disciplined practice of fasting, and constant prayer, are means already put to the proof to that end, and as such, obligatory in the lives of leaders (Matt.
Vulnerability can expose us to misunderstandings, but can also bring healing. "Quench not the Spirit" 9:15). He has been married to his wife, Terrie, for over forty years and is the father of four married children all serving in Christian ministry. <> 2) Others are called through human beings. 2) Faith to trust (17:1-27). Deborah convinced her followers to go beyond their own vision. 6:1-9). The lifestyle and lessons of Jesus established a model for a new class of leader: the servant-leader (Matt. Later, he confronted the immorality tolerated by the leaders (Mark 6:18), and was eventually arrested and decapitated for this reason. 10:5), and don't conform to the standards of this world, but are transformed by the renewing of their mind (Rom. Immediately Jesus proceeded to cure his enemy, making himself vulnerable, running the risk of being hurt also, and that his action would be interpreted as another hostile movement. The ordination of leaders consisted primarily of the selection of individuals of maturity and proven character, to lead in such a way that the entire church could function effectively in worship, service, evangelization and carrying out the individual spiritual gifts. GOD's calling (Is. Gideon demonstrated sever characteristics of the consecrated leader: 1) unwillingness to govern unless GOD called him (6:36-40); 2) continual dependence on GOD (7:1-8); 3) willingness to turn faith into action (6:25-27; 7:15-22); 4) disposition to use the gifts that GOD gave him to lead others. David was humble and someone ready to learn; he listened to his critics and the prophets. The answer resides in the fact that after each error David repented; and something equally important: he learned from his own mistakes. 16. His life demonstrated three basic concepts of leadership: 1) he was dedicated to the goals and spirit of his calling (Phil. 10:5), and don't conform to the standards of this world, but are transformed by the renewing of their mind (Rom. This high standard is applied not so much to the leader's successes as to the state of his heart and his spirit. The New Testament recognizes three types of administrative leaders: deacon, steward and supervisor.
Even when all are called, GOD designates those leaders who must guide others. Leaders are subject to more rigid standards in order to exemplify Jesus in their conduct, words and actions. 13:1-14:45; Joshua 6:1-27; 10:1-43) Joshua and Caleb were prepared to do what was unpopular and called the people to a positive faith. Almost everyone is called to lead in some capacity.
Authority (Exod. 1) "And you will command" (from the Hebrew veatta tezave, 27:20). That the leaders of the early church always gathered in Jerusalem, tells us that they were united and in harmony with each other and with GOD (2:46; 4:24; 5:12; 15:25). The New Testament seems to recognize three basic types of administrative leadership: 1) The servant-leader or deacon; from the Greek diakonia, which means "service or ministry" (II Cor. 15. 1:5). In I Timothy 3 and Titus 1 much attention is paid to details, but here James reminds those who are in a position of leadership, that they would be considered responsible regarding following the example of Jesus Christ, as much in spirit and the conduct that they manifest, as in their words and attitudes. Leaders are judged with a higher standard that those who follow them. The spiritual advance requires faith, and unbelief never sees anything but difficulties. Leadership isn't received because of natural charisma, but by doing things according to GOD's will. Without exception, miracles, wonders and signs accompanied the ministry and preaching of the early leaders of the Church. Their minds are cleansed of impurity (II Cor. Abraham knew that sacrificing his son would destroy any hope of fulfilling the promise that pointed him out as the future father of many nations.
1. Inspiration (Judges 4:1-5:31) 1:17,18; 3:14-19). GOD's calling (Is. Abraham's aptitudes were proven in three aspects of faith: the attitude in the face of danger, trust in GOD and submission to His will. The word refers to those who "manage" the church (I Cor. 3:7,8); 2) he communicated his convictions to others (II Tim. 11:11) and lifted him us as a testimony to faithfulness and boldness as characteristics very worthy of leaders. % Fasting and prayer (Acts 13:1-3) 21.
Signs, miracles and wonders aren't chance acts, but evidence of divine anointing, which should be sought and welcomed. 3) "And you will speak to all the wise of heart" (from the Hebrew veatta tedeber, 28:3). Dont let this list discourage you, but let it direct you to the power of God.
As long as a person isn't inclined to wash the feet of others, he isn't qualified to be a leader of the kingdom. Gideon offers seven keys for a devout leadership, characterized by his humility and disposition to serve. David is better remembered as a very sinful man; he committed adultery, killed others, lied, betrayed his nation, committed several errors of judgment, wasn't an excellent administrator and, finally, couldn't even attend to his home adequately. 28:1,2) 27:1-28:43) Take command (Exod. 16:13-20) 3:1-13) So any believer and leader, newly promoted in the body of Christ, may retain the image of their founder, Christ, whose life and character are not only preached, but are present in all those who lead others in his name. Vulnerability (Matt. 11. 17. 27:1-28:43) Without exception, miracles, wonders and signs accompanied the ministry and preaching of the early leaders of the Church. 4:11,12); and 2) Pass the truth on to successive "generations" of converts, that is, commit it "to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (II Tim. Taking command is manifested in many ways by the wise leader. Evaluation of character (I Tim. 1) Many are called sovereignly. 6:8,9) 2:1,2) and bore all the difficulties necessary to achieve that end (II Cor. A spirit susceptible to instruction (Acts 13:32) Leaders are judged with a higher standard that those who follow them. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress. For that reason, when the Holy Spirit speaks to them through visions (diurnal mental images) and dreams (revelations during a dream), they hear the message without difficulty (see also Psa. Here Peter reminded the people that Jesus' credibility was based on his miraculous ministry. Abraham and Sarah were already long past the age of procreation. John the Baptist's ministry is characterized by the courage of his preaching and his decision to proclaim what nobody wants to hear. Governors, soldiers and business leaders, are rarely judged by their personal lives. 9. He has godly friends and stays accountable.
16:7; Acts 9:10; 10:3,17; 18:9). They have to put their sight and affections on the things from above and not on those of the earth (Col. 3:2). He possesses a sense of urgency for Gods work. 16. Dreams and visions (Acts 16:6-10)
If a leader abandons these ethical standards, he or she must accept to be stripped of the leadership duties, until an adequate time transpires for a new verification of his character (Gal. Gideon understood that GOD wanted Israel to be a theocracy (GOD as King). 4:8-11; 11:23-33). The leaders of the kingdom, however, are judged not so much by what they achieve, as by the character that they reveal, that is, according to what they are, and not what they do. It's possible to achieve great successes and even to maintain an orthodox comportment and, nevertheless, manifest an unholy and loveless spirit. 7:13,14; 22:14; John 15:16). But, even though Abimelech had a natural charisma, he neither had the mind of GOD, nor had he been anointed or designated by Him. If He has called you to lead, then His power can make you what you ought to be. His biblical vision has led the church to become one of the most dynamic independent Baptist churches in the nation. 3:1-4:17). 9:19-22). The dedicated leader is prepared to risk all for his trust in GOD and to adventure into the unknown. Few things induce a greater reaction in people than the sense of dealing with someone who sympathizes with and understands their needs, which they find when the leader shows meekness and self-assurance. The supervisor should intervene and take charge of the situation, always when the delegated leader moves in the wrong direction or there is some type of confusion. Vulnerability means to be totally frank, hiding nothing and refusing to defend yourself. 2:2). Unity and harmony (Acts 1:14) 3) "And you will speak to all the wise of heart" (from the Hebrew veatta tedeber, 28:3). 26:47-54; Luke 22:47-51; John 18:10,11) This duality in the spiritual authority gave place to misunderstandings and, sometimes, to conflicts. 12:28) Occasionally, to avoid misunderstandings, an administrator needs "to take charge", speaking directly to all the laborers instead of directing them through other subordinate leaders. Security (John 13:1-17) Samuel went to David and anointed him with oil (I Sam. 1:5). 12:28) 12. These "deacons" follow the model of the men who were set apart in Acts 6:1-6, to serve the widows in Jerusalem. On his missionary journey, Paul planned a journey to the north, to Bithynia.
Also, the leaders of the early church prayed for miracles (Acts 4:30), and saw them, not as casual acts or occasional successes, but as evidences of the anointing of GOD in those who continually glorified Christ throughout the Church, and that, consequently, should be sought and well-received.
