#BibleLesson. Timeless Truths – The Role of Apostolic Leadership
18 John’s disciples told him about all these things. Calling two of them, 19 he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”
20 When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’”
21 At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. 22 So he replied to the messengers, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy[a] are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. 23 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”
24 After John’s messengers left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 25 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear expensive clothes and indulge in luxury are in palaces. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written:
“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way before you.’[b]
28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
Luke 7:18-28
This is the last in this series
When John is in prison and begins to have doubts. Jesus does not belittle him for doubting.
Instead, he uses that as an opportunity to teach about how God works.
Sometimes when we have doubts, it is because we are not leading appropriately.
- We tend to lead as the world leads, not as God planned.
The selection of leaders is frequently based on looks, charisma, education, etc., even in the church.
- Today neither John the Baptist nor any of those fishermen would have been first choices for leadership today.
Characteristics of John’s Spiritual Leadership
John the Baptist is in all four Gospels.
- He spent his life preparing for his station.
- He had a real sense of humility. Despite his own followers, he remembers his purpose. (Luke 3:16)
- He had a sense of obedience. He does exactly what Jesus asks. (Matthew 3:15) Real spiritual leadership is shown in preparation, humility, and obedience.
- John was willing to take huge risks to point others the way. Too often we place our faith in our own abilities and don't want to take risks. Of all organizations, the church should be willing to take risks for God. Risks pay big dividends.
- John had a missional quality in his leadership. He was looking four and ready to send his followers through the Messiah because he understood who he was.
You can lead like John by incorporating those five qualities.
How to live leadership.
Prepare yourself to lead.
- Take advantage of opportunities to grow.
- Leadership is taught as well as caught.
Lead in the obvious places: home, etc.
- Serve where you're at.
- Be used by God.
Your voice is only heard when you are serving.
Thanks to Dr. Scott Peterson for the primary teachings in this post.
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