1 Timothy 3 begins with the great words, “There is a popular saying, “To aspire to leadership is an honourable ambition.” (NEB) And as soon as we read it some of us may question the validity of the statement and ask, “Really? To aspire to leadership is a good thing? Who wants to be a leader in the church? Are they nuts?”
We all know that leadership comes with difficulties and leadership in the church comes with its own set of unique challenges. So, to any who have been part of the church for any length of time the words may seem to be empty, untrue even. Some others, may not be so bold to discount Paul’s words, instead they say, “It may be true other people, but leadership in the church is not for me.”
But before we toss Paul’s words aside ask yourself four questions. First, ask yourself, “Where would the church be without leadership?” The quick answer is – nowhere. If you think the church can survive and thrive without your leadership you are misguided because everything that we share and plan together for the kingdom of God requires leadership.
The second question you need to ask yourself is, “What would leadership be without character?” Throughout chapter 3 Paul stresses the character of a leader – someone who is above “reproach” in every area of their lives. In the Third Letter of John there is a reference to Diotrophes whom we assume wanted to be a leader in the church, but because he “loved to be first” was disqualified. Any church leader must be free from all self-promotion and love of adulation. The witness of the church has been woefully diminished by leaders who lacked Godly character.
The third question is “What would character be like without Christ?” The task of church leadership is daunting and we could well ask, “Who is sufficient for this? Who of us dares to lead God’s holy household?” We know our sins of self-will, self-love, and self-interest keep pushing themselves forward. But thanks be to God for Jesus Christ whose indwelling gives us a character that is like fruit (see Galatians 5:22) that nourishes the body. Every good thing in us is because of him. Thanks be to God for Jesus Christ who is willing to forgive us as we fail him over and over again. As he did for Peter who failed him so blatantly so he does for us – he forgives, heals, renews and sends us out to serve him.
The fourth question you must ask yourself is, “How am I leading in God’s church?” Do you discount the words of Scripture and refuse to offer your gifts in leadership? Or do you see leadership in the church as an honourable ambition in which you seek to lead with a Godly character and the knowledge that Jesus Christ calls you and enables you to do all things for his glory?
In thanksgiving for you, Pastor Tom.