Godly Leadership

“Everyone speaks highly of Demetrius, as does the truth itself. We ourselves can say the same for him, and you know we speak the truth.” ‭‭3 John‬ ‭1:12‬ ‭NLT‬‬

What a pleasure to have men like Demetrius that can be trusted. Trust is something earned, not simply given. Demetrius had established himself among the church as a solid example of faith. Everyone held him in high regard. In church leadership, God has called men to walk with exemplary character and conduct. Whether it is the senior pastor or appointed servant leaders (deacons), God calls these men to high character. These men should not be leaders just because they hold distinguished degrees in educational fields, are rich, popular, good business men, one of the family members of the founders of the church, or give the most money to the church. Although these things are not necessarily negatives, neither are they affirmation of leadership. Many churches suffer from the lack of biblical, godly leadership. Churches are not secular businesses, they are God's household!!! Let's let the scripture speak for itself: “This is a trustworthy saying: “If someone aspires to be a church leader, he desires an honorable position.” So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. He must not be a heavy drinker or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church? A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap. In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money. They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience. Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives must be respected and must not slander others. They must exercise self-control and be faithful in everything they do. A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.” ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭3:1-13‬ ‭NLT‬‬