Sunday Words of Encouragement October 9, 2016

We had a good Sunday morning. Our Sunday School teacher talked again about spiritual warfare. We had a lovely time of worship and we acknowledged Pastor for “Pastor appreciation” month.
Pastor continued with the Healthy Church series. He reminded us from last week that Church health begins with a passion for Jesus. He noted that Paul’s letter to Titus sets out strategy to prepare the church for growth. Each chapter is set up with a What a Why and a How section. Chapter one addresses leadership. The church needs involved leaders. The stakes are high for the church; the kingdom.

Leadership defined: If someone is following you, you are a leader. Titus 1:5-9 identifies the elders as the overseers who manage God’s household (the “What”). It is important Because there was a problem as leaders were taking followers in the wrong direction. (The “Why” in verses 10-12.) Verses 13-16 reflect the “How” or what action needs to be taken to fix the problem.

Point: The healthy church has protective leaders who are submitted to Christ; who proclaim the Truth and lead from a pure heart.

The ‘Jethro principle’ (Moses’ father-in-law) applies to leaders who are to be appointed to help with the ministry tasks. Leaders need to evidence availability and willingness. All of us have the potential to lead even if only small teams. Jesus gave us the example of a servant leader. He led people by serving them. The healthy church needs leaders who will help to expand the church pie (not just share the existing pie). Titus shows a process for growing the church.

I found this old hymn on serving though not quite on leadership:

Verses for Today:
Titus 1:7-9 ESV
7 For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, 8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound[g] doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

Lord, help me to be available and willing to follow You and lead as You will!