leadership

In an evangelical culture obsessed with various creative and often professionalized terminology for leadership, desiring to produce "change agents" ready to transform the culture around us, it is nothing short of fresh and enlightening to draw from the depth of Scripture for the source of what spiritual leaders and spiritual servants should truly seek after:

Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. ³ Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; ⁴ but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word. (Ac. 6:2-4 nkjv).”

In the early church pastoral oversight devoted itself to the word of God and to prayer, and those that assisted them in service were wise, full of character and had the evidence of the Holy Spirit flowing through their life.

A simplicity is to be found in this text, for these early followers of Jesus Christ sought these very foundations for their ministry, rather than trendy methods and man made wisdom. We will do well if we follow their example in the avenues of service where we have been called, and in the spheres of influence in which we are given.

fighting God

"'But if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it-lest you even be found to fight against God (Ac. 5:39).'"

These words by the respected, but non-believing Jewish teacher Gamaliel (Paul's very own instructor) are strangely prophetic in that they summarize Jesus' statement to Peter "on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it (Mt. 16:18 nkjv)."

God's plan's of redemption, both for Israel and the Church, cannot and will not be hindered, though Satan, nations, and even you and I fight against Him.

If God's will cannot be undermined, and His ways will come to pass, then the question remains, "will you trust Him, even when it means giving up your control?"