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Thursday, August 11, 2011

Leading part Seven

As we continue through our study our next characteristic of an overseer is "respectable". Interestingly enough the term in Greek is actually rooted in the same word we translate world. (Kosmos) The actual Greek word that we translate to respectable is kos-mee-os and emphasises order. Similar to the creation account found in Genesis, it indicates an orderly and modest person. Two qualities that are appealing to those who do not know Christ as their savior. Chaos and vanity are to be rejected according to our orderly Father and likewise make a great character for our church overseers. Most of us have been in or are in a situation where we have experienced a person at church, work, or family that is hit and miss when it comes to accomplishing daily tasks. They seem to hang on to the here and now and have little concern of the future. Their random chaotic behavior forces others to wait on them for meetings, reveal areas of being unprepared and have difficulty remembering where and whens of life. Not the qualities we need in our Church's leadership. In First Timothy 4:7 Paul writes to "discipline yourself for the purpose of Godliness" and this should be our quest as we are ambassadors for Christ. Continue on in your journey being orderly in all you do. Best of luck and feel free to post your comments on ways that will help us become more "respectable" for the Lord.
Keep'n it in the Word.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Leading part 6

I know its been awhile but here is the next in our series in regards to leadership. Last time we looked at "temperate" and this time we will be looking at the term "prudent". Another characteristic of an overseer. I will first point out that this term is translated a number of ways depending on the Bible you use. For instance the NASB uses prudent, while the NIV and ESV use the term "self controlled", and the KJV uses "sober". The actual Greek term is sophron. The idea here is to be sound of mind, discreet, moderate as to opinion or passion, sober. As a kid I was told that God gave me two ears and one mouth for a reason and here it is. The need to listen twice as much as talking. Everyone has their opinion and passion, but a prudent person will be one who will listen and be of sound mind, only speaking as the Lord leads. As we look at the characteristics we may develop an image of a 110 lb weakling, waiting to be walked all over. However if you have ever been in a place where you needed to restrain your tongue you can appreciate how difficult it can be to not just blurt out your thoughts, leaving the hearer battered and bruised. Jesus displays the proper way to be prudent in the events of Mark chapter 11, when Jesus drives the money changers from the temple. He spoke truth as the Lord Himself rebuking the improper behavior of these men. We see it in verse 17, "He began to teach and say to them". Wow, always an opportunity to instruct someone in the way which he/she should go, and with a heart to help and crush. We could all use a hand when it comes to this area.
Keep it in the WORD!