Verse of the Day for February 23, 2012

“Here I stand. Testify against me in the presence of the LORD and his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated? Whom have I oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to make me shut my eyes? If I have done any of these things, I will make it right.”
- 1 Samuel 12:3 (NIV)

We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .

If you are a leader, what is the legacy that you will leave behind? What is your “exit strategy” for moving on from your current role, whether through relocation, abdication, or transition?

In our verse for today, Samuel is giving his farewell speech. He’s transitioning the role of national leader to King Saul. His is a planned departure, though far different than what he would have liked.

The people of Israel demanded a king like the surrounding nations possessed. In their pride and posturing, they rejected the Theocracy of God for the Monarchy of Men. Thus, Samuel and his leadership – - his judgments, guidance, and protection for decades – - were also rejected. Yet, was he bitter? Was he vindictive?

The answer is a resounding “No!” Samuel calls the people together and challenges them to find any fault with him. Publicly, Samuel is showing how he has been blameless before them. Indeed, they have not rejected Samuel for any weaknesses he may have possessed; rather they, as the LORD said, are rejecting God.

Samuel no doubt wanted to enter his “golden years” by handing the mantle of leadership to a younger Prophet/Judge. Yet, the people were unwilling to let that happen. They wanted to be just like the other countries. They wanted to show off how “sophisticated” and “worldly” they were.

In stark contrast to the shallowness of the people, Samuel stands rock-solid, demonstrating that he had the “right stuff”. The citizens were forced to find no fault in him and to take the full responsibility for what happened next upon their and the new King’s shoulders. Sadly, that’s exactly what occurred.

Leaders must face the fact that they may leave the scene in a manner not of their own choosing. How they depart, and how people view them, is something to be thought about NOW, not later. Our actions now determine how we can walk away – - blameless or blamed.

How are we doing at influencing our “exit strategy” now?

Verse of the Day for February 16, 2012

“Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.”
- 1 Timothy 5:19-20 (NIV)

We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .

We naturally want to believe the best about those who lead us. We trust them to be truthful, ethical, moral, and upright. We also know that leaders can be huge targets for rumor, slander, and muckraking. That’s why Paul applied a centuries-old Jewish judicial process when it came to determining guilt or innocence of leaders accused of wrongdoing (see Deuteronomy 19:15).

However, when a leader is found guilty of an offense, especially one in which trust is betrayed, Paul is also clear about the justice to be meted out. The perpetrator is to be reproved in public, or in front of the group in absentia, for two very clear reasons:

1. To serve as an example to other leaders not to make the same mistake, and
2. To let the followers know that the other leaders take such matters seriously.

How leaders deal with the public failings of other leaders demonstrates how much they care about the spiritual health of those who follow them. Sweeping things under the rug, giving them a light treatment, or handling such things out of sight of the congregation deprives the followers of seeing a strong moral stand, not to mention providing a shining example of the standard to which Jesus followers should be held. Churches that do not have an ironclad policy of dealing with accusations and/or leaders’ offenses are doomed to suffer the consequences of compromised leadership and spiritually stunted followers.

How are we doing at helping our leaders stay accountable?

Verse of the Day for February 2, 2012

“Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”
- James 3:1 (NIV)

We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .

The Bible has several good things to say about teachers. In fact, Paul exhorts us to teach one another in the areas of godliness, knowledge of the Word, and worship. However, James’ warning against taking teaching “lightly” is well worth heeding.

You may recall from prior articles that one of the qualifications of a leader is that he is “able to teach”. That doesn’t mean that the leader *is* a teacher. Rather, it means that the leader can teach when called upon by situation or need. The fact that all leaders mentioned by Paul in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 must hold the truths of Scripture “deeply” speaks to the fact that they will need to instruct from time to time based upon those truths.

Teaching is one of the most formal methods of mentoring. It places the teacher in both a role of authority as well as that of role model. The combination of these two roles, when found in someone *not* genuine or trustworthy, holds a two-pronged danger – - the corruption of truth and abuse of the mentee.

Our news often contains stories about school teachers arrested for one type or another of abuse. In fact, there’s a rather large and disgusting story unfolding here right now in the Los Angeles area. The point is that persons placed on pedestals can let power push them to improper behavior.

Those who seek to be leaders need to understand that, by virtue of their position, they are automatically judged more strictly by God. There’s no escape for the leader that abuses or takes advantage of followers. If justice is not rendered in this life, it will most assuredly be rendered in the next.

How are we doing at watching our motives so that our lives teach only what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable? (Philippians 4:8)

Verse of the Day for January 26, 2012

“Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach.”
- 1 Timothy 3:1b-2a (NIV)

We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .

Paul uses the Greek words “episkope” and “episkopos” that are translated “overseer” in our verses for today (the KJV renders these “bishop”). These words may sound somewhat familiar as they are where the title of the Anglican Church in America, the Episcopal Church, derives its name. The instance in verse 1 refers to the office and the instance in verse 2 refers to the holder of the office. Is this important?

When we look at the senior leaders in a church, many of whom are called “Elders”, we must first realize that they fulfill a role and/or hold an office or title. According to the New Testament Greek Lexicon*, episkope means “investigation, inspection, visitation
that act by which God looks into and searches out the ways, deeds character, of men, in order to adjudge them their lot accordingly, whether joyous or sad
oversight
overseership, office, charge, the office of an elder
the overseer or presiding officers of a Christian church”

The holder of the office, the person, is, according to that same lexicon, “a man charged with the duty of seeing that things to be done by others are done rightly, any curator, guardian or superintendent the superintendent, elder, or overseer of a Christian church.”

Thus, there is a role and then there is the man charged with filling that role. There are expectations and required tasks. The man must be fit for both task and title.

When we look at leaders today, there isn’t always this match. Somebody holds a title but they don’t execute the tasks very well. Or there are those leaders who do the tasks but, for whatever reason, people have seen fit NOT to put them in the role. Both cases are examples of injustice and poor judgment.

In 1 Timothy 5:17, Paul says we are to honor elders who serve well. So, we must not keep those whose qualifications and behaviors demonstrate leadership attributes out of the office of overseer. Conversely, we must not let those who do NOT display those attributes into the office.

Are we appreciating our leaders who serve well? Are we affirming servants with leadership attributes by giving them the title and tasks they deserve? These are questions that must be answered in the positive if the church is to make any difference in the world.

* http://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/nas/episkope.html

 

Verse of the Day for January 19, 2012

“Deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.”
- 1 Timothy 3:8-10 (NIV)

We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .

So, what does it take to be a deacon/server on God’s leadership team? Here are some observations from our verses for today.

1. If we are not respectable, there’s little hope that we can ever effectively serve others or lead them.

2. We must say what we mean and mean what we say. The words that we speak must not be flippant – they must come from the heart.

3. As Paul says, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (Eph. 5:18). If our actions are controlled by drugs, alcohol, or worse, we aren’t in control of ourselves. How can we shepherd others or advocate the “full sway of the Spirit” in the lives of others?

4. If we are not trustworthy with money, can we expect that others will entrust us with their eternal dispositions?

5. People are looking for leaders who truly believe what they say. If we only have a shallow faith, how can we help others when they come to their own “dark night of the soul”?

6. The only way to earn the trust of people is to earn the trust of people. Churches that take a shortcut to put popular people in leadership irrespective of their track records will regret it every time.

Of course, it’s easy to gloss over these qualifications because, if one is not seeking a leadership role, it’s easy to say, “That doesn’t apply to me.” But, the challenge is, which one of any of these qualifications doesn’t apply to every believer? In other words, why shouldn’t everyone seek to aspire to this level of faith-based behavior?

These are qualities that Jesus held in full-measure. How are we doing at emulating Him?

Verse of the Day for January 12, 2012

“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve . . . said, ‘It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.’ This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose [and] presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. ‘”
-Acts 6:1-7 (NIV)

We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .

Inequity in God’s family? Yes. Even within just a year of Jesus’ resurrection, the church was experiencing bias, prejudice, and lack of fairness. Cultural and ethnic forces brought about inequitable treatment of those who needed kindness and generosity the most.

Leaders at the top of any organization have core responsibilities to watch over the entire group. They need to delegate myriad tasks to those who are closer to the “action” and who have a better relationship with the people they serve. Thus the first “deacons” were named because of their duty – - to serve others.

Much has been written about “servant leadership”. It’s a concept that, when executed properly, improves everyone’s lot. Whether in a corporation, a non-profit agency, or a school, when leaders serve the people they lead, needs are met and dignity is enhanced.

So many of our “role models” today take instead of give, dictate instead of serve, and abuse instead of raise up. The biblical leader takes seriously the “upside down kingdom” principle and understands that posturing and braggadocio don’t put food in mouths or clothes on backs. Leaders with egos are dangerous to the populace!

What does it take to be a deacon/server? More on that next time.

Verse of the Day for January 5, 2012

“Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, ‘What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?’”
-Exodus 18:13-14 (NIV)

Today we begin a series on Biblical Leadership. Now, more than ever, we need spiritual leaders who know why they are needed and understand their calling.

God’s people have always needed leaders. The reason is simple: we’re human; our condition requires intervention. And, the way God chooses to intervene most often is through other humans.

In Moses’ day, it was clear that there were disputes to resolve and decisions to render. People stood for hours and/or days waiting for their “intervention”. Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, observed that this in itself was injustice and did not serve the best interests of the nation. Thus, he recommended that Moses

“select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves… you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.” (vv. 21-23)

This worked for two reasons:

1. It kept Moses from burning out
2. It got the people exponentially closer to closure

As we look at churches today, we may not notice the heavy load put on the Pastor or Staff. We may have been quite comfortable previously in letting the “professionals” handle ministry. But, that’s unrealistic and unbiblical. Lay people, whether volunteer or remunerated, are needed to lead in their spheres of responsibility. We can’t default to the clergy; God wants His whole team in the game.

Are you game?

Verse of the Day for Dec. 29, 2011

“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ – - which means, ‘God with us.’”
- Matthew 1:22-23 (NIV)

“And surely I am *with you* always, to the very end of the age.”
- Matthew 28:20 (NIV)

Matthew starts his gospel with a genealogy and the story of Jesus’ (Immanuel’s) birth. He ends it with Jesus’ promise to be “with us”.

As we leave 2011 and enter 2012, let us remember that God has not broken His promise. He is “with us” in the good times. He is “with us” when all around is chaos. He is “with us” in our deepest hurts and highest joys. There is no place we can go where He cannot reach us or be near us (Ps. 139:7-10).

That should inspire us to try new things, to step out on faith, and to go boldly in righteousness (doing right things, for the right reasons) out into a world that needs light and truth. The world doesn’t need more chastisement and failed leadership; it needs more love and authenticity.

If we truly believe that God is “with us”, what will we do differently in 2012?

Verse of the Day for Dec. 22, 2011

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”
-Luke 2:19 (NIV)

And just what were those things that Mary treasured and pondered?

Luke tells us that it was the shepherds’ adoration and their experiences that made Mary pause and consider. These affirmations that her Son was indeed the Messiah must have been good news piled on top of a mother’s relief at birthing a healthy child, promised by an angel.

What are the things *we* are treasuring and pondering? Do we, like Mary, have affirmations of Jesus’ deity and lordship that we are treasuring and meditating upon? Or, do the Scriptures seem cold and distant to us, much like God might?

The key to understanding Jesus, and appreciating what a gift He has for us, is found through His Word. Your correspondent wishes you and yours a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year that finds you growing closer to God for:

“My goal is that [you] may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that [you] may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that [you] may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
-Colossians 2:2-4 (NIV)

May you enjoy the unveiling of this blessed mystery during these holidays!

Verse of the Day for Dec. 15, 2011

“For no word from God will ever fail.”
- Luke 1:37 (NIV)

In the angel Gabriel’s message to Mary announcing that she will birth the Messiah, he utters the fantastic words in today’s verse. It was more of a guarantee than a promise; an ironclad truth that cannot be altered.

In our world today, a person’s word is becoming less trustworthy. There was a time when one’s word was his/her bond. Yet, as we’ve seen in study after study, the incidence of lying is increasing and people feel less guilt the more they lie.

That’s one reason why people may doubt the accuracy and truthfulness of God’s Word. We see a diminishing supply of role models for truthfulness (think of politicians, for example) and think that is “just the way things are”. Yet, the danger in ascribing human failings to be “reality” is akin to calling a freight train a feather – - it is a non sequitur.

As we begin to celebrate the Christmas season, we may be tempted to downplay the sheer miracle of God becoming flesh. We may hear “scientific” explanations of the Star of Bethlehem or the possibilities of mass hypnosis of shepherds. Yet, these are to be suspected because, as with many attempts to devalue Deity, they try to make the origin of such wondrous events in the Scriptures to be other than God Himself.

The center of Christmas is God, not nature. The explanation of events is miraculous, not mediocrity. The ramification of God’s intervention is eternal, not seasonal.

How are we doing at believing God’s Word?