Sermon About Leadership: The Church's Need for Godly Leadership Acts 6:1-7

The Church's Need for Godly Leadership Acts 6:1-7

Internal issues can hinder our growth. What should we do as a church to accommodate growth?

How should we solve the growth issues we face?

The role of a leader has been studied and debated for centuries. Some believe that the role of a leader is essential for a group's good,, one must be a good leader to achieve the good of the group. A leader must be altruistic, possess the ability to balance responsibility with compassion, and be able to inspire others. A leader can achieve the good of the group by being a good leader. Qualities of a goog leader.

The apostles solved a food problem caused growth by designating lay leaders (6:1-7).

The apostles solved the growth problem by appointing lay leaders (2-7).

The apostles proposed a plan to choose lay leaders (2-4).
The apostles from Galilee called a public meeting of the locals (2a).
They shared their priority of teaching over administration (2b).
They asked the locals to choose seven respected administrators (3a).
They committed in advance to appoint those selected (3b).
The reaffirmed their commitment to teaching and prayer (4).

Leaders of the church: Overseers (episkopos). Means a superintendent. An officer in general charge of the church. Same word as bishop that is used in I Tim. 3:1. Acts 20:28 Pastors- (same word as shepherd)- (poimen)

Supervise, feed, rule. Eph. 4:11. Used in John 20:16 and Acts 20:28 when Peter and the elders are told to feed the sheep (flock).

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I. Leaders Who Seek the Good of the Church (1 Peter 5:1-3, Ezekiel 34:2)

The church needs leaders who genuinely care about the welfare of the flock entrusted to their care. 1 Peter 5:1-3 instructs, "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock." This biblical principle echoes the rebuke in Ezekiel 34:2 to shepherds who neglected the needs of the sheep. Church leaders should model Christ's sacrificial love and diligently serve the spiritual well-being of the congregation.

II. Leaders Who Know the Word of God (1 Timothy 3:2, 6; Titus 1:9-11)

Effective church leadership demands a deep knowledge of God's Word. 1 Timothy 3:2 and 6 emphasize that church leaders should be "able to teach" and "hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught." Additionally, Titus 1:9-11 underscores the importance of leaders who can "give instruction in sound doctrine" and "refute those who contradict it." Leaders who are well-versed in Scripture can guide the congregation with wisdom, discernment, and spiritual nourishment.

III. Leaders Who Communicate with the Church (Genesis 11:6)

Effective communication is vital for church leadership. Genesis 11:6 reminds us of the power of unified communication, saying, "The Lord said, 'Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them.'" Leaders should foster clear, transparent, and unified communication within the church, ensuring that the congregation is well-informed and engaged in the mission and vision of the church.

IV. Lead and Not Just Direct (Matthew 23:1-3, 1 Peter 5:3)

True church leadership involves shepherding and leading by example, rather than simply giving orders. In Matthew 23:1-3, Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for not practicing what they preached. Similarly, 1 Peter 5:3 advises church leaders not to "domineer over those in your charge" but to be "examples to the flock." Church leaders should humbly walk alongside the congregation, demonstrating Christ-like character and leading by their godly example.

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V. Leaders Who Serve as Shepherds, Not Just Administrators (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2)

The church needs leaders who function as shepherds, not just administrators. In Acts 20:28, the apostle Paul exhorts the elders to "Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood." Likewise, 1 Peter 5:2 calls for shepherding the flock of God willingly, not for gain but out of a genuine desire to nurture and protect the church. True church leadership involves the pastoral care and spiritual well-being of the congregation.

VI. Leaders Who Recognize and Utilize the Church’s Talents (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12)

Effective church leadership recognizes and utilizes the diverse talents and gifts within the congregation. Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 emphasize the importance of every member's role in the body of Christ. Leaders should foster an environment where each member's unique gifts are recognized, appreciated, and utilized for the edification of the church. This collaborative approach empowers the church to function as a harmonious and effective body.

VII. Strong, Godly Leadership (Nehemiah 2:17-20; Ezra 7:10; Nehemiah 8:1-8)

The church needs strong, godly leadership exemplified by figures like Nehemiah and Ezra. Nehemiah 2:17-20 highlights Nehemiah's vision, dedication, and leadership skills in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. Ezra 7:10 emphasizes Ezra's commitment to studying, obeying, and teaching the law of the Lord. In Nehemiah 8:1-8, we witness the spiritual leadership of both men as they guide the people in understanding God's Word. Strong, godly leadership inspires and guides the congregation toward spiritual growth and obedience to God's Word.

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Conclusion:

The church needs leaders who are dedicated to the well-being of the Church, rooted in God's Word, effective communicators, and humble shepherds. As we reflect on these qualities, may we pray for our church leaders and seek to embody these principles in our own lives as well. Ultimately, it is through the guidance of such leaders that the Church can thrive and fulfill its mission to proclaim the gospel and nurture the faith of believers.

The church flourishes under leadership that serves as shepherds, values and utilizes the talents within the body, and embodies strength and godliness. As we reflect on these qualities, let us pray for our church leaders and strive to cultivate these principles in our own lives as well. When leaders embrace their role as shepherds, empower every member's unique gifts, and lead with strength and godliness, the church becomes a powerful force for the advancement of God's kingdom. May we honor and support our church leaders as they guide us on this journey of faith. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.