Online Articles
The Perpetuity Leadership #1
Regarding the perpetuity of teachers or preachers of the Gospel, Paul instructed Timothy to "...commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." ( 2 Tim 2:2) Paul, by and through the Holy Spirit understood the need for training men to assume this role for the generation to come. We are bound by the same perpetual injunction Paul delivered to Timothy in his 1st century writing. Many local churches, Elders, and preachers understand this, and put forth excellent efforts to fill the boundless need for men who can "preach the unsearchable riches of Christ." May God bless your efforts.
No one denies the chaos that prevails in many local churches because men do not meet the qualifications of 1 Tim. 3 and Titus 1, thereby allowing the congregation to be led with direction, rather drifting aimlessly without anyone who can use the compass. What will we do about it? Though not specifically stated, are Elders not bound by the injunction of 2 Tim. 2:2, to see that men are readying themselves to serve the Lord and His people in this capacity? Certainly! The attitude reflected by some seems to be that somehow "it will take care of itself." Qualified leaders do not just materialize. It takes planning and preparation. We must begin counseling our young men at an early age that the Lord has set a goal for them to achieve ...... to serve Christ and His church as an Elder. We must teach them to understand the value of the highest office on earth, in the greatest institution man has ever enjoyed; an Elder of the church of Christ. If we do not influence them to this end, who will? Christian parents are the first in a line of individuals who must no only look out for their young boy's spiritual well being; but also how their son may one day look out for the spiritual well being and betterment of others.
Many men in the church find themselves too far down the road of their spiritual life, before they learn to take serious note of the role and qualifications of an Elder. Some are never able to make up the lost ground to serve. In some cases this is because no one had an interest in, or cared enough to invest the time to see that they were taught to esteem and prepare for the job. Older men must help young men see the long term consequences of career choices that will impede their opportunity for leadership in the Lord's church.
Before our young men are even old enough to choose a mate, they must be taught to consider their future wife in view of the vital importance of this work. They must be taught to select a woman who wants to compliment and help empower them for this work. It is sad to see men who are married to worldly women who are not an asset to the possibility and opportunity to be a leader in the Kingdom; but rather a liability and relentless drain on all his resources, thereby disqualifying him.
Next week we will review more needs that must be addressed to see that the future of leadership in the church is insured. Think about it.
