God’s standards for leadership in the church are high. Unfortunately, today many evangelical churches today either deny or ignore those standards. Some congregations and denominations pick and those pastoral qualifications that seem most relevant and appropriate for the times, that satisfy personal preferences and that do not conflict to sharply with contemporary social standards and practices. Lowering standards for those God calls into vocation ministry, and who uniquely represent Him before the world, as well as before the church, is tragic. The church can rarely survive a failure of leadership. Pauls’ theme in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 is to help Timothy understand what to look for in the local church when appointing leadership in the church. It is critical for us to understand that while reviewing these characteristics, These things are already in a follower of Christ, not something that a pastor is to subscribe to, in light of his office. This passage of scripture outlines 5 areas that a man must be viewed as “blameless.” This is the major overriding characteristic outlined in this passage dealing with both, Pastor and deacon. Leadership must be the cream of the crop or they will destroy all that the Lord is attempting to … READ MORE

In discussing the value of gifts to the church, and how they should be implemented in the church, Paul, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, said in 1 Corinthians 12:31 “… I show you a more excellent way.” While it is the Holy Spirit that gives gifts, it is the church’s responsibility to recognize the gifts and put them into use in the local church. When we refuse to allow the church to suggest our role in the church we are guilty of robbing the body the gift that the Lord has presented to the church. God understands the needs of the church and it is our responsibility to fit in and use our gifts for the glory of God and the benefit of the body. The motive for service is not exaltation, but rather love. I do what I do for two basic reasons: One, is love for God – recognizing that God has equipped me to do a work, I serve in the capacity that God enables. Second, Love for others – I do the work that I do because it helps you to grow and mature. The wonder of this is seen in the fact that … READ MORE

The most vital ministries in a church always included some that are not obvious. The faithful prayers and services of a few dedicated saints who hold no office frequently are the most reliable and productive channels of spiritual power in a congregation. Yet, those with less noticeable ministries are sometimes vulnerable to misunderstanding, and often toe neglect or lack of appreciation. These people should be protected by fellow believers just as the body protects its vital organs. To do the work of God effectively, each part needs to function in unison. This working allows the body to function effectively, and creates a unity of purpose within its members. What a Great God we have who makes all those who are followers of Christ, valuable in His service. One of the struggles with the multi-church movement, with “hired” participants is that those who are not apart of the “inner circle” often feel like they are not wanted or needed in the ministry of the church. No church can function without every person doing their part in the ministry of the body. Ephesians 4:12 reminds us that the teaching gifts given to the church are given, “For the equipping of the saints … READ MORE