Devotion:
Read 1 Timothy 3:1-13.
The Apostle Paul was vital in the development and spread of the early Church. He visited cities and villages all around the Mediterranean Sea, teaching and preaching about Jesus Christ. He started many house churches. As he finished his time in one place, he moved on to others. Each of those congregations needed leaders. In this letter to Timothy, he offers characteristics needed in those who will be overseers or supervisors in the church. It is interesting to note what he chooses to include in this particular list.
If you were making a list of what is expected of leaders in the Church today, what would you include? I first want to know about their relationship with Jesus Christ. Is their life focused on him and his mission? Do they believe in the grace he offers and are they committed to living the sacrificial love that he showed us? Do they truly love God and love people? Secondly, are they a good follower? You cannot be a good leader if you do not first know how to follow. This is especially true in the Church. To be a good leader among the people of Jesus Christ, one must first see themselves as one of his followers, as well as being willing to be supervised and held accountable by other leaders of the Church.
How about you? What do you look for in a good leader in the Church?
Personal Worship Option:
I invite you to pray for two matters. First, ask if God is calling you to be a leader in the Church, either within the life of your congregation or as a pastor in some other place. Second, ask God to guide you in helping young people discern a possible call to ministry.
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