Pivot Point......Pacesetters part 3

Pacesetters....it has been a very challenging pivot point. Being faced with such a task, on top of my everyday work, family, friends, church, routine, you either choose to carve out time, or you don't. That has been my challenge. I don't consider myself to be someone who has a lot of "free time", so carving out time, has had to be very intentional!!

The previous post had a list of books that we were given to read. At the time, we had just been given "the Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson. A summary never does a book justice, but here is a "quick" summary.

The Circle Maker.
Another great book, one that really challenges you in your mindset regarding prayer.  The imagery is that of "circling" God's promises in prayer. Praying for God given dreams and vision. Dreaming Big, Praying Hard, and Thinking long term. Making a list of things you are praying over, short term, long term, personal, spiritual, to - do's, covering all aspects of life.

Too often we don't get what we want, because we don't even know what it is we want. To be clear, this is not a book about what "we want", it is about what dreams God has given us, the focus is about God getting glory, not us getting what "we want" from a non biblical "Genie" God.
Too often we "give up" on God, we stop praying, we stop working towards his will and vision. One of my favorite quotes from the book is "work like it depends on us, pray like it depends on God". Miracles happen when God intervenes, and He does so, so He get's the glory!!
Dreaming Big, it is about having the faith to look foolish, like....I have no idea how this dream is going to become a reality, but if God truly gives me the vision for it, He will deliver. God is not offended by big dreams that are rooted in Him, He is offended by anything less!

The book gives the reader a challenge, a pivot point, with which our prayer life, and life in general will hinge on. It is based on a quote by AW Tozer (one of my wife's favorites!), Tozer believed that a low view of God is the cause of a hundred lesser evils, but a high view of God is the solution to ten thousand temporal problems. So,.......the question is, Are your problems bigger than God, or is God bigger than your problems? Good grief!!!, talk about a pivot point!!  Answer that question honestly!

The more God given dreams we have, the more complicated, and honestly, the harder life will get. But a very common misunderstanding of the Christian life is that it will be and should be easy. The Goal of our spiritual maturity is not self-sufficiency or independence, the goal is co dependence on God. The more mature we are spiritually, the more we know we need to depend on God!! The goals of a Christian life are not our happiness or our personal comfort, if we believe that and act like that, we are not in line with God's objective, which is His will be done, and Him being glorified!!

In our last Pacesetters meeting, I told Pastor Rob that when we first met, I sat in Rob's office and asked him what his vision was for Bethany Christian Assembly. On my part, I asked the question as a sort of test, wanting to know where the leadership was focusing. I was literally blown away by the Big Dreams that he shared, and not for anything other than making the name of Christ known, wanting to serve the people of Everett in any way that God called them to. ( I had asked this same question to Pastor's at previous churches, and can now see the correlation between their answers and where their respective churches were growing, or lack thereof.) Pastor Rob then shared what he was "circling" in prayer. And he asked us to pray alongside him in the same things. I love seeing the vision of church leadership. It is really easy to jump on board when you know what the vision is!

Next time. Pivot Point......First Impressions at BCA

Pivot Point.......Pacesetters part 2

On the first night that the Pacesetters group met, there were numerous things that stood out to me. First and foremost was the intentionality that was driving force behind why Pacesetters even existed.  As Pastor Rob stated "I'm looking for emerging leaders that I can invest my life into...." I was thinking....that's on his radar? Of all the things he is responsible for in such a large church, looking to identify emerging leaders and investing them, was something I thought he wouldn't have time for. It was something I haven't seen modeled in previous churches. Sadly I have even watched Senior Pastors manage to do the opposite, and run off any potential leaders.

On this post I will be laying out what is required of a Pacesetter.
1. Attend faithfully the once per month meeting (90 minutes)
2. Do assigned reading and bible study in preparation for next meeting
3. Lead or help lead a small group
4. Lead or help lead a ministry at BCA
5. Commit yourself to grow as a leader.

First, we meet in Pastor Rob's office, and at some point in our time, I always glance around at the massive library of books that he has accumulated and read. It is impressive!

Second, the assigned reading/bible study. What a task! but one that has been a complete joy. The assigned reading/bible study has been challenging. For two reasons, one, in trying to carve out time to get it all done, and second, the reading and bible study has been spiritually challenging. I will be breaking down the specific readings in later posts. But this is the list of what it has entailed, just to give you an idea.

Bible study/workbooks.:

1. Basic Christian Beliefs (BCB) A 17 chapter workbook, focusing on the basics. This is a class that is taught at BCA on Wednesday nights for new believers. It involves scripture memorization, and alot of digging into scripture so that basic questions can be answered in the workbook.

2.Get a grip on your faith. A 13 chapter workbook that dives into specific doctrine.

3. BCA playbook. a 70 plus page book that guides the pastors and staff in the mission and vision of BCA. It breaks down Authentic leadership, Vision and Values, BCA strategies and systems, and the basics of what BCA does, and why they do it. This is one of my favorite's!! There is no mystery as to why BCA exists, and not mystery as to what their Vision is. It is all laid out, plain and simple.

4. Rethinking LIFE. A study guide based off of a sermon series on the life of Joseph. Looking at 8 critical aspects of Joseph's life

Books (so far);

1. The Navigator. A book about Dawson Trotman, the founder of the Navigators, a group that has focused on personal follow up (after the decision for Christ), one on one training, and the multiplication of disciples. This man was completely sold out to Christ!! Scripture was the Authority in his life, and reading about how his life was molded by scripture, was inspiring.

2. Jesus on Leadership by C.Gene Wilkes. A Fantastic 245 page book that focuses on Servant Leadership. Looking at the model Jesus gave us, by his example, leading by serving and following His Father.  This book seriously challenged me to ask why I serve. What is the motivation? And a serious self examination on whether or not I was actually following Jesus. Great, great book.

3. The Measure of a Man by Gene A. Getz. An in your face, 250 page book, breaking down 20 attributes of a Godly man. Taken straight from 1 Timothy 2, and Titus 1, looking at the character qualifications for a Biblical Elder. This book can be read by and individual, but really is designed for reading along with another person or group. Great self evaluation sections, and strategy challenges on how to make application of the information. Ironically, the week we got this book, I had just finished my blog posts regarding Biblical Leadership.

4. Every Man's Battle. Winning the War on sexual temptation one victory at a time. by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker.  This book, well, holds absolutely nothing back!! I loved this book. It didn't just say......get victory over sin.....it laid out how to!! Sexual impurity is devastating our culture, and sadly, even the church and it's leaders. It is an open and honest book about men and their struggle with sexual temptation. This book is fantastic, literally, every man should read this book.

5. Every Man's challenge. How far are you willing to go for God/ by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker. This book is about Spiritual growth, more specifically, that the Christian is tested on a daily basis, and how we do on those "tests", reveal what you are made of, they challenge you and prove you. It is about your commitment to obedience. God' word is your mirror, when you step before it and look at what you've become, what do you see? It is about Sin. It is about transformation, it is about change. I am currently reading this book.

6. Every Man's Marriage. An every man's guide to winning the heart of a woman (that woman being your wife). by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker.

Third. We have each had to prepare and share our testimonies. I have really enjoyed this aspect of our meetings. It helps to get to know each man, what he has come from and through, and how God has revealed Himself and worked in each man's life.

Fourth. We are not just part of a small group, we lead or co-lead one. There are over 200 small groups at BCA, with the a goal of over 400. Part of us leading a small group is training someone else to be able to split off and form their own.

Fifth. There are so many ways we can serve at BCA. Leading, or helping to lead a ministry, allows us to take part in ministry. Being part of the "team" is what we are supposed to be.

coming up....more detailed breakdown of the books I have been reading!

Pivot Point.........Pacesetters

Pivot points.......specific events that provide the opportunity for transformation.

Lately, much of my "free time", has been consumed with "homework". Homework like when I was in college, well OK, not that much, but on top of my more than full time job, adding more to it can quickly consume all my free time.

In the beginning of Summer in 2012, I received a letter in the mail, a letter from the church I have attended since November of 2011. It was a letter from the Senior Pastor. To summarize, every year he personally chooses (from his letter) "around 7 men to be a part of my Pacesetters group. I am looking for emerging leaders that I can invest my life into and who have a heart to lead their lives, families, and church in a Christ honoring way."  Needless to say, in a church of 2,000 plus, I was humbled to be thought of. Especially since I had only been attending there for 6-7 months.

The Pacesetter group meets once a month, we are in the Word, have workbooks to go through, scripture to memorize, a book every month to read, share our testimonies,  co-lead a ministry, co-lead a small group, and generally commit ourselves to grow as a leader.

Without getting into too much personal history, I have always desired this type of mentorship. And my recent history was in a church completely opposite of this new opportunity. Which made this pivot point, that much sweeter, and humbling. It was night and day difference, and extremely refreshing. The Pastor of a large church, intentional to invest in the men of church, developing leaders of both family and ministry.

On the very first night that we met, about 10 minutes in,  I sat back in my chair, overwhelmed with joy,  looked over at a good friend, (who came to this church the same time my family did) and let out a heavy sigh, a sigh of.....finally!!! He returned the same look to me, as we knew this was going to be an epic pivot point for the both of us, something we had both longed for.

We are about 6 months into Pacesetters, and I will be sharing a lot of what I have been reading, going through, and learning, as a result of the material from Pacesetters.

Biblical leadership.........your rep

The importance of reputation, yes, yours is important. But more important than your reputation, is the reputation of who you represent. For the Christ follower, our reputation is only important when connected with the purpose of being ambassador's for Christ. The focus of our reputation is not ourselves, that leads to pride, arrogance and self-centerdness. The real focus of our reputation should be about Christ.

NLT "Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil's trap."
KJV "Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."
NASB "And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil"
ESV "Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into s snare of the devil."
NIV "He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap."

The Greek word "marturia" is translated as "report". It literally means testifies or testimony..ie before a judge. So it is literally the testimony that a non-believer or outsider would give of the elder/pastor.
So, the elder/pastor must be both above reproach within the Church, but also have earned a testimony worthy of the call of ambassador from those outside the Church. One commentator states, "he must be a man who has gained the respect of others in the day to day business of life. Nothing has hurt the church more than the sight of people who are active in it, but whose business and social life contradicts the faith which they claim and the principles they teach."

For the elder/pastor, much of their life is spent with the Church body. A relatively smaller amount of their time is spent amongst non-believers. It is "easy" to be a Christian with other Christian's. It is much more difficult to be a Christian when surrounded by people who are not Christians. It is a mistake to overlook the value of this last quality of an elder/pastor. I believe that this aspect is crucial to any man who desires to be an elder/pastor. The reason?? We are called to be ambassador's for Jesus Christ, to represent Jesus in and to the world. To do that effectively, we must be able to win the respect of "outsiders". They must know your claim of "Christian", and in their own judgement say, "I respect that man!!" Simply, we cannot fake it with outsiders. We can't use Christian jargon or Christian speak. They watch more intently, with a much more critical eye. And because of that, we must be very intentional in not compartmentalizing our "Christian" life, but in actuality represent Christ. In real, tangible ways. With every aspect of our life.

The apostle Paul wraps up this chapter, after more instructions regarding deacons, with the reason he writes these things to Timothy. verses 14-15"......I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth."

If God's household no longer holds to how God desires them to conduct themselves, they are not representing the "living God" appropriately. And they will cease to be the "pillar and foundation of truth." When that happens, the church reduces itself to a social club, and family and friend hangout, a collection of moral deists, with a belief in "God" and basically "moral". Which is a far cry from the Christianity we are called to Biblically. Maybe that's why the "church" is so irrelevant in the context of America today.

Biblical Leadership. A man and his house.

Anyone out there familiar with the term....PK?  Pastor's kid? What do you think of when you hear that term?? Sadly, all growing up, that term was not used in a positive light. It was a term used, along with a chuckle, deep sigh, and a rolling of the eyes. Phrases often used to describe the pastor's kid; a kid who had poor manners, a general lack of respect for anyone and anything, and out of control behavior. That is what the reputation of a Pastor's kid was when I was growing up. That was common knowledge and belief, and it was that way because of experience. It struck me as odd, even as a youth growing up. I look back on it now, with much disgust. And, now I understand the dysfunction of many churches. It starts with the leadership, and who is given roles of leadership within the Body of Christ. And, sadly, the complete disregard for Biblical standard, God's standard, in these appointments.

There are two aspects to verse 4, a general qualification and a much more specific one. Followed by verse 5, giving God's reason for this qualification. (as if God needs to give us a reason)

1 Timothy 3:4-5

NLT "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?"
ESV "He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church?"
KJV "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?"
NIV "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect (if anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church"

The pastor/elder's job does not begin or end with their responsibility in the church. They have another responsibility, and that is the home, and if that man is failing or has failed in his responsibility at home, there is no doubt that they will also fail in their role of pastor/elder.
Remember, this is what God said. "If a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of  God's church?"

If a man has not proven to lead his own household, his wife, and his children, why would he be given the same task in the church? If a man chooses to not be faithful and committed to his wife, why would he be faithful and committed to the body of Christ? He won't. If a man does not lead his wife to holiness, how will he lead the body of Christ to holiness? He won't. If a man does not raise children who respect and obey, how will that same man lead anyone else to respect and obey God? He won't. In the end, the home is the proving ground. It is the arena in which a man proves he can be faithful, committed, intentional, and actually lead anyone. A man cannot fake it at home with his "gifts" like preaching. Will he need to preach? Yes he will. But that in itself will not allow a man to manage his home well. He has to know the Word, preach the Word, teach the Word, live the Word, be faithful to the Word, and have his love for the Word spread to those he has been blessed to be a leader of, HIS FAMILY.

Okay, a little tangent here, but let me know what you think.....

So, if this is a requirement, should any man be given the role of pastor/elder if he is not married with kids? If a man has not proven himself in this area, why would he, or why should he be given the role of pastor/elder?? What has he proven?? More specifically, what has he proven in real life, with real people? Not just text books, or in theory. This goes back to "giftedness" versus "holiness". As a culture we are enamored with peoples gifts more than we are with their character. We often confuse their gifts with their holiness. Their actual ability to lead, with character and committment, is generally not proven. In the New Testament, Paul wrote to Titus and Timothy with this specific list of who can be an elder. Have we altered this? Have we made these to be idea's instead of actual biblical guidelines?  This is a thought that I have been struggling with, specifically, allowing non-qualified or proven people into leadership positions.  Especially as I have dived deeper into these qualifications in the past few years, trying to get a fuller picture of what God judges as necessary for a Pastor/elder.

The next qualification is in regards to recent converts.......and why they do not biblicaly qualify to be a pastor/elder.

Biblical Leadership. Wine, fighting and money

This is an odd mix of qualifications to have together, but it's all about the total character of the man who desires to be a pastor/elder. Each is important, if God says that these are the qualifications, that makes them the standard, and God's standard should be our standard. Are we here to please God, or please man? If we are to please God, we will be in alignment with His will, His word, His standard.

ESV "not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome,not a lover of money"
KJV "not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy luker; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous"
NIV "not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money"
NLT "he must not be a heavy drinker or be violent, he must be gentle not quarrelsome, and not love money"
MESSAGE " not be overfond of wine, not pushy but gentle, not thin-skinned, not money-hungry"

In the greek "paroinos", means not given or addicted to wine. There is much debate as to what exactly this means. Clearly drunkenness is not a qualification, and abstaining is not a requirement. But the grey area between the black and white is dangerous place. Drunkenness, being given to wine, is not what a pastor/elder should be. This verse clearly says that. At the same time, abstaining is not the qualification either. This topic can be a lengthy post all by itself. Any Biblical church with an elder board, or the qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 as a standard, have to decide what this means for them. Specifically for the pastor/elder, not for the church goer. I am currently a member at a church where, the pastors/elders, sign an abstinence agreement. Not because drinking wine is a sin, but because they want the pastoral staff to be blameless, going back to the first qualification of a pastor/elder.

In the greek "plektes" defines a smiter or striker. Basically someone who assaults others. In the greek "epieikes", is often translated as mild, gentle, or patient. We all know someone who punches first and asks questions later. The kind of person whose first instinct is to take some form of physical action against someone, regardless of whether or not they even know the full context of whatever is causing them to have such thoughts. For the pastor/elder, he must be the kind of man whose instinct is not violence. That does not mean you avoid anything that causes emotions, it means that this man is willing to take the time to make sure that they know the full context of any event. Often times we react to quickly, we don't take the time to filter what we see, hear, or think through the Gospel. It is mostly unlikely that a Christian pastor would strike another, but the fact remains bullying and bad tempered speech or action is forbidden for the pastor/elder. Are there holes in the walls of the home that the pastor/elder has to cover up or hide? Random things broken? There is something deeper that surfaces, and it quickly turns violent? The pastor/elder must take that time to filter all emotions. His role as elder/pastor requires it.

In the greek "amachos", is translated as peaceable. The word means disinclined to fight. Not necessarily physically, but more so in other ways. Those who want to argue over anything! Which version of the bible they use, what denomination they are, color of carpet, style of music, Husky or Cougar, it doesn't matter what it is, they have an opinion and want to argue it. The pastor/elder is the type of man who absolutely needs to have biblical conviction and an opinion. But his demeanor and character clearly need to be that of a man who is not seeking a fight, but seeking peace.

In the greek "aphilarguros", means without covetousness. Not a lover of money. This one would seem to be simple and in no need of diving deeper. But in America, there are too many who use the name of Jesus Christ to make money. This one qualification alone, if taken seriously, would rule out so many! But for those in ministry for Jesus Christ, His mission, His body, know full well ministry is not about the money. Regardless, the pastor/elder has to be consistently aware of his heart in regards to money, and more importantly coveting that which he does not have.

Next time.......a short break from pastor/elder qualifications.......to provide commentary and summary of the state of the church in regards to pastors/elders.

Biblical leadership. Lover of hospitality, able to teach.

There are some very simple things in life, simple things that reveal the heart and mind of a man.
The list of elder qualifications, 16/17 in all, are 16/17 parts that make up a whole. 16/17 area's of a man's life that either qualify him as an elder, or disqualify him. Again, God's standard, God's judgement, and each man's choice to be qualified or not as an elder/pastor.
So why 16/17?? Some combine verse 4, ruling his house well and children in submission. Some keep them separate, which I will do also. But that's for a later date.
This list is here, God given, Holy Spirit breathed & inspired to the apostle Paul for the foundation of the church. This is how God has determined that His church was to be lead. By these type of men.

I am sure that each of us can put a name and a face to pastors that have had influence in our lives. Some being a living example of the elder/pastor qualities God has given us in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 for that matter. And I am sure we can just as easily put a name and face to pastors who exhibit very few of the elder/pastor qualities that God has given us in 1 Timothy 3 & Titus 1.
For any disciple of Jesus Christ, for those who call him not only Savior, but Lord, for those who call Him Master,  for to those who desire to live an obedient life, and a life of submission to God's will, for those who desire to serve as elder/pastor, this list should be in the forefront of any and every decision they make.

ESV "hospitable and able to teach"
KJV "given to hospitality, apt to teach"
NASB "hospitable, able to teach"
NIV "hospitable, able to teach"
NLT "he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach"
Message "hospitable, he must know what he is talking about"

The Greek word for hospitable is "philoxenos".  It literally means fond of guests, that is, hospitable, given to (lover of) hospitality.
I love this characteristic! It shows something beyond head knowledge, beyond the short and fairly impersonal rubbing of shoulders at church. This is where relationships grow. This is where the elder/pastor is able to lead by example, to show availability in a personal setting, to be intentional in making people feel welcome by them, it can show that the elder/pastor is willing to serve. I have been witness to pastors who mostly fall into the realm NOT hospitable. Can the pastor be hospitable to everyone, no, not really. At the same time, that is why there should be a number of elders/pastors that are compatible with the size of the congregation. One man can not do this by himself. That's another post!! But back to this post.........is your pastor, are your elders fond of guests?? Are they lover's of hospitality? Are you?? Romans 12:13 Paul exhorts the Roman church to be given to hospitality. 1 Peter 4:9 calls the Christian to be hospitable without grumbling. Be a lover of hospitality.

Apt/Able to teach. The Greek word is "didaktikos". It means instructive, apt to teach.
The elder/pastor needs to be able to teach the word of God. Not just preach it, but to come along side others and actually teach them. As a coach, I can tell my basketball team how to play, but that is only part of the equation, I must also be able to teach them in a tangible way that allows them to succeed. That means that I have to watch what they are doing, and get in there to make corrections. That's the role of the coach, if a coach doesn't do that, his players fail. For the elder/pastor, part of the job is preaching, but they must also be able to teach well. To be able to teach in a way that the hearer is better able to understand and apply the lesson being taught. There is very little use in urging people to be better Christians from the pulpit, if those same people don't even know what it means to be a Christian!! Does your pastor instruct you well? Does he take the time to come along side you? Does he just give you information, or does he help you to succeed with that information in a tangible way? Does he allow you to work through what that looks like for you in your own decisions, then come along side you with real instruction and teaching? Are you able to teach? Can you take someone through the Gospel? Can you help a fellow believer with biblical questions?

Next time......the drunk, violent, greedy man........sounds like a day with the general public, driving public transportation!!

Biblical Leadership, vigilance, self-control, and respectable

It has been very thought provoking and humbling to go through the pastor/elder qualifications in 1 Timothy 3.

Throughout the Old Testament God calls his people to Holiness.
Leviticus 11:45 "you shall therefore be holy, for I am holy"
Leviticus 20:7 "consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy.."
And in the New Testament Peter refers back to the Old Testament, 1 Peter 1:16 "since it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy."
We are to be "set apart", set apart from the society around us that does not serve the living God.
But,.......are we?

In a survey I heard in a sermon, the pastor said that, 84% of people say that they know someone who is a Christian, but only 15% of those people say the the Christian is different than anyone else they know. YIKES!!! So where is the "be holy, for I am holy"????? God calls us to be set apart, yet, as a whole, Christian's are not.

As I move along into the remaining qualifications and characteristics of a pastor/elder, I hope and pray that you read them and evaluate them intently. Evaluate your own heart and inner thought life. Evaluate your actions. Don't be deceived by your own judgement of yourself, you will most likely justify your own sin. Ask those around you. Not just those who are your "friends", how likely are they to tell you the "truth"?? If you want to really challenge yourself, ask those who are not your friends!!

I believe that all Christian men should have this list as a goal, as a standard for their lives. Regardless of whether or not the actual position of pastor/elder is desired. This passage of Scripture should not be avoided by Pastors. Why would a Pastor avoid scripture that clearly calls men to God's standard? Does He not want men in his church to be elder quality? What is the point then? How sad is it that any Pastor would keep men from the challenge of specific Holiness! It is that man's job as Pastor to bring his flock from milk to meat. We are all called to be Ambassador's for Jesus Christ. (2Cor: 5:20) We should desire for our lives to bring glory and honor to His name. If we are to actually represent Christ, we need to submit ourselves more and more to God and His standard.

The task is great, but when God calls you, He also equips you. Will you answer the call, and train yourself for Holiness??

ESV "sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable"
KJV "vigilant, sober, of good behaviour"
NASB "temperate, prudent, respectable"
NIV "temperate, self-controlled, respectable"
NLT "he must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation"

The Greek word "nephalios". This word can have a double meaning, it can mean sober, but it also means watchful and vigilant. The call to the pastor/elder is to keep a clear mind, to be watchful and vigilant about their lives. That their conduct, choices, and lives must be continually under scrutiny, because  their conduct will be under scrutiny from all around them, Christian's and non-Christian's alike. The pastor/elder is in a highly visible position, and he must be vigilant about his own life.

The Greek word "sophron". This word is considered to be almost untranslatable. One word never hits the nail on the head. Many different English words are used for it. Sound mind, discreet, prudent, self-controlled, chaste, or having complete control over sensual desires. And now I am going to become a geek, yes geek, not Greek, and put some quotes in from historical author's regarding this word "sophron", just so we can get a better idea of the meaning.

1.  Plato defined it as "the mastery of pleasure and desire"
2. Aristotle defined it as "that power by which the pleasures of the body are used as law command"
3. Philo defined it as "a certain limiting and ordering of the desires, which eliminates those which are external and excessive, and which adorns those which are necessary with timeliness and moderation."
4. R.C. Trench describes it as "the condition of entire command over the passions and desires, so that they receive no further allowance that that which law and right reason admit and approve."

So, as you can see, one word doesn't really grasp the whole of the original intent. To sum it up, the pastor/elder must be in total control of his emotions and desires. We all have them, but do they master us, or do we master them?

The greek word "kosmios". Can mean well behaved, orderly, honest, and respectful. It was often used of a person who was a good citizen, but it was much more than just good behavior. There was an understanding and sense of someone whose life was seen as balanced and purposeful.

There is also a special connection between the words sophron and kosmios. Together they point to the inward man and the outward man.  Sophron addresses the inward character of the pastor/elder, that which we will not necessarily be able to see. Kosmios addresses the outward visible character of the pastor/elder, that which we see very clearly. Together they make up the whole of what the Christian leader should be. Inwardly in control and mastering their emotions and desires, and outwardly showing the beauty of what he has inwardly mastered. As one commentator states, "The leader must be one in whose heart Christ's power reigns and on whose life Christ's beauty shines."

Our actions reveal our hearts and minds. Our choices reveal what we really believe. There is no point in denying that. These characteristics don't just happen, we don't fall into them, we can't just "try" to be them, we must train to be them. We must in our hearts and minds train to be vigilant, self-controlled, and respectable.

Next time.......hospitable and able to teach.

Biblical leadership. the blameless one woman man part 2

I am trying very hard to not write a book about this topic, but a few questions from others have led me to do a part two.

The biblical qualifications are very well known for any man who desires to be a pastor or elder. That is why it continues to baffle me that so many pastors fail in these two areas. I know, I know, we are all sinners, we battle with the "flesh", I get it, and understand that. But over and over again any precautionary measures, or any real accountability with other Godly men are avoided. John 3:20-21 gives us a very clear warning, "For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out by God." This verse provides an in your face opportunity to evaluate which one you are, not only which one you are, but what to do about it! For a Pastor/elder it is very simple, bring your life "into the light....that it may be clearly seen." That is what accountability is all about. That verse is NOT saying, bring your issues to the local congregation and share it with everyone you know. But to make it "clearly seen". Does the Pastor/elder have a man or a group of men to whom they are accountable? If the answer is yes, then amen!! If the answer is no.....be warned by scripture, anyone avoiding the light is focused on something other than God. It comes down to some very simple and basic things.

Boil it all down, and, the foundation of this list is about your commitment to God. The real level of commitment to God is truly revealed in these qualifications. Men can be very skilled at hiding their true level of pride, arrogance, and sinful thought life, usually they are very condemning and judgemental of others to hide and mask their own wickedness.  But when it comes to this list of qualifications, only the truly committed, humble, passionate, dedicated, and selfless will pass the test. That is why every aspect of ones life is touched by this list.

Above reproach, and a one woman man.

Pride and arrogance lead a pastor to lie about himself. Lie about his past to make himself look better, lie about recent events to protect himself, and distort the truth to minimize damage done by his own pride and arrogance. Too often. As a society we too often value gifts/skill over character. It is seen in our culture with sports figures and "celebrities". And it happens in Churches too. Too often pastors/elders are idolized as if they are God. Too often the pride and arrogance of those men grows to the point where they think they are above reproach. And their life is a reflection of that.

"Never follow a pastor who is not painfully aware that one day, after he quits breathing, he will stand in front of Jesus and give an account for how he led, treated and spent his life on the bride (the church/body), if that piece is not there, that man is leading your towards a house called his ego and he will build the church based on how he looks rather than what is best for the body."
 --Pastor Matt Chandler

Not only painfully aware of giving account in front of Jesus, can that man give an account here and now?? Can he legitimately stand up to any accusation made against him. Does he seek the light in that way, so that God is glorified?

Back on track with 1 Timothy next time.....

Biblical Leadership. the blameless one woman man

As I get into the Biblical qualifications of leadership, I do want to emphasize one thing. The Bible is the standard. If the Bible is not the standard, then there is no point in using the Bible at all. If you are not using the Bible, well, you are not really a Biblical Community. When Churches or leadership dismiss the standard of scripture, then the standard becomes something made up by men. When the standard is made up by men, God is no longer God. Man is God.
I will try to cover two or three character qualifications per post.

1 Timothy 3:2a
ESV "Therefore an Overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife"
KJV/NKJV "A Bishop must then be blameless, the husband of one wife"
ASV "the bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife"
NASB "an overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife."
NIV "now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife."
NLT "so an elder must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife."

Because we do not use the Greek language, we must do our best to put into common English words, the original meaning of each word or thought. Some translate well, others need much more of an explanation than one word. Although translators do their best, the translation often needs better explanation. Unfortunately, there are too many churches, and leaders, that will dogmatically stick to a given translation, and not do the work to know or understand the original meaning. That usually happens when the translation benefits them more than the original meaning, or vise versa. Instead of Scripture being the standard, too many want to bend Scripture so they fit within a skewed version of Scripture.

As you can see in the different translations above, there are two issues addressed. And I will take them in the Biblical order.

Reproach. Above reproach, blameless, without reproach. So what does that mean?
The Greek word is "Anepileptos" it is used of a position which is not open to attack, of a life which is not open to censure, of an art or technique which is so perfect that no fault can be found with it, blameless, unrebukeable.
The translation can be adequately done with one English word, which most translators use. That word is "reproach". To be above reproach or without reproach. literally it means above/without fault, to be above/without blame, to be above/without censure.

When a church leader fails to live a life that is above/without reproach, the Church as a whole suffers.
That man is consciously making choices that will either match the biblical standard or his choices will clearly and obviously fail in meeting biblical standard. When this kind of man is in leadership within a church, it is a matter of time before his choices bring about shame not only to himself and his testimony, but to the local church with which he serves, and the body as a whole. Ultimately, the Christ follower is an Ambassador for Jesus Christ (2Cor 5:20). Even more so, the elder/overseer is the leader and example for any congregation. Biblically he must be above and without reproach.
So what happens when an elder fails in this? It will happen. But what happens when it does?
This goes on into Church discipline, and more specifically who is the elder/overseer accountable too? I am not going to go into this right here, it is a whole post by itself. But I will ask this one question. Is the elder/overseer accountable to anyone who can exercise discipline to them? If the answer is no, the structure of that church is not about biblical standard, it is set up to be about the man/men who lead it. They will be the judge, jury, and attorney. What they decide wins out. They, without a doubt do not have to be above/without reproach. They only answer to themselves.

An awesome example of what this looks like comes from a church in Texas. If any man desires to be an elder, he is brought before the church. The lead Pastor tells the congregation that this man desires to be an elder. AND, if any one has a charge against that man, they are to not only tell that man so he can resolve the situation, but they are also to tell the church leadership so that the leadership can dive into the accusations, and make sure that the issue is resolved biblically. The man who desires the office of elder/overseer must be proven to be above/without reproach both prior to appointment but also throughout his duration of time serving as elder/overseer.

The second aspect of elder qualification is much tougher.
Some translators use "husband of one wife" others use "faithful to his wife" There can be a lot of debate over what this means.
In the Greek, the most literal translation is " a one woman man" or " a man of one woman". Although "husband of one wife" doesn't seem that far off of a translation, it actually misses the mark. And although "faithful to his wife" seems a good translation, it doesn't narrow down the original meaning totally, either.
The Greek doesn't actually say anything about marriage in this section. It can easily be referenced to given the context of later qualifications that speak about child raising and leading of the home. It only makes sense that this man, this elder/overseer is a married man. And obviously he needs to be the husband of one wife, not two, three, or four. But there are some difficulties with the translation "husband of one wife". Does that mean one wife at a time? One wife ever? That doesn't even speak to the faithfulness to that wife. What happens if the wife dies? Does that make that man disqualified? Can he then not remarry and be an elder? What happens when a man is divorced when he is not saved? When he (or his wife) is not a Christian and the marriage falls apart. What happens when that man is then saved? Is he disqualified for all time? if not, what must he do to be qualified. Under this definition, as long as the man remains married, he can still be unfaithful. Do you see how the "husband of one wife" lacks the full intent of the original.
"Faithful to his wife", that translation also has some flaws. Again the section doesn't speak to marriage. And really it only implies to faithfulness. Should an elder/overseer be faithful to his wife? The answer is YES. But, once again this translation doesn't do the whole justice to original meaning.

A "one woman man" or "a man of one woman" is rich in its meaning. It literally means that a man is only with one woman. In the context of these qualifications, and with a better understanding of the original Greek meaning, it is not hard to know who is qualified and who is not.
For example, an elder/overseer is married, and has knowingly invested in a relationship with a woman other than his wife.That man is biblically disqualified, he is clearly not a "one woman man"!!
If that elder/overseer has, by his own choice," fallen in love" with another woman, if he has chosen to have sexual contact with a woman other than his wife, he is biblically disqualified, he is clearly NOT a "one woman man"!! This man, by his own choice, has placed his own "happiness" over his "holiness". He is more than willing to forfeit his testimony, his character, his family, and his role as elder/overseer. Biblically, that is exactly what he has chosen.

These qualifications are about who should lead God's body in the local congregation. Sadly, too many disqualified men are allowed to fill the elder/overseer role when they shouldn't.

I have been witness to how a pastor's infidelity has played out.. In one church, the pastor was removed from his position, removed from the congregation, got two weeks pay, and was legally banned from being within 500 yards from the church facility. In another church the pastor was temporarily removed from his position, never lost his pay,  was allowed to stay at the church, was able to keep his presence in the ministry he was involved with, and was able to have a voice in other ministries. One church took a biblical stance. One church is thriving. One church is about God and his name being above all else. I am sure you can figure out which one that is.
An elder/overseer/pastor, must be above reproach, and a one woman man.

The next post will be about the following three character qualifications: Sober-minded, self-controlled, and respectable (ESV)

Biblical Leadership part 2

In the last post, I talked about two aspects of Biblical Leadership that scripture focuses on. The function and the character of the leader. The previous post was primarily about the function of the leader. What it was that scripture called leaders to do. This post will focus on the character of the leader, what the leader is called to be. 

There were different qualifications for leadership in the Old Testament, depending on the time. It is very interesting to pay attention to, and to study, but I am not going to dive into that here. I will be focusing on the New Testament, what scripture says about leadership in what was the beginning days of the "Church". If the church, the body of Christ, was to live for it's purpose, leadership was crucial. That was true in the beginning days, and it is true today.

So what does God require for a man to be able to fill the role of leader?
 
The New Testament uses the terms "elder" and  "overseer", Paul writes to Timothy and Titus with a list of character qualities that someone who fills the position must have. In my previous post I listed some verses that revealed the function of the leader. In those verses, it is not "a good idea", or "a suggestion", or "if it is convenient", try to do these things. Those verses reveal what God wants the leaders of his Church to do!!! And in the same way, when Paul writes to Timothy and Titus with a list of character qualities for an "elder" or "overseer", this list is NOT, a suggestion, or a good idea. It is the God given, Holy Spirit inspired, standard. The function of elder/overseer is difficult. And so the character of the individual must be high.

I do want to point out a couple of things before I get to the list of qualifications.

No one is perfect, thus the need for a savior. The qualifications are not about perfection. They are about God's standard. We make conscious choices. And those come with consequences. Some of our choices determine whether or not we are qualified. Some of our choices actually, Biblically, disqualify us. I want to point out that we make those choices. Those choices are not made for us, we choose.
If at any point, we as the church, fail to uphold the standard for these qualifications, we are choosing to stray from what the Bible calls us to. And too often, we justify it. I believe fully in Grace, Grace for our salvation. I believe in forgiveness, forgiveness for our sins. At the same time, we can still disqualify ourselves from leadership.  God put forth the qualifications, and if someone doesn't meet them, they should not be in leadership as an elder or overseer.

As I said at the end of my last post, most non-believers want nothing to do with "Christianity" because of their experiences with Christians. And most believers who struggle with going to church, struggle because of their experiences in church with Christians. And what is the main reason?? Character.
In the Old Testament and New, leadership was taken seriously, but it wasn't about gifting, it was about character. The reason?? Without biblical character that is Holy (set apart), it doesn't matter that the function is going in the right direction. Function without character will fail biblically. Character without function can be very, very frustrating. But that leader, with biblical character, will listen, pray, and grow. They will continue to be in the process of growing in their service to the body. People could get frustrated and leave a church because of a lack of function, purpose, or intentionality in ministry. If the character of leadership is proven to be biblical publically, and the leadership is actually above reproach, people will stay. But if the character of the leader fails to meet biblical standard, no amount of function, purpose, or intentionality in ministry will do.

Character is proven over time. Which is why many of the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy are not one time events or qualifications. It's not like getting your drivers liscense, pass the test once and your good forever. The Biblical leader can not say.....I passed that test once, so I am good forever! Just because you were above reproach once, that doesn't mean that you get a pass on every other situation or event that brings accountability to your doorstep. Every event, every occurrance, every trial, every choice, any choice, is important. It's important because it reveals our hearts. Does that scare the Biblical leader? It shouldn't, unless there are hidden sins, or thought life, that are knowingly lived in and lived out.

Next time.......1 Timothy.......the Biblical qualifications of an elder/overseer.

Biblical Leadership part 1

The Body of Christ has purpose.

It is not intended to function randomly, or under it's own authority. The Body of Christ is made up of believers, followers of, and disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Body. And scripture reveals the purpose of the Body of Christ.

So far we have looked at what happens when the physical body does not function as designed or intended. We have literally looked at real life examples of the different ways the body fails to function correctly, and the tragedy of what that looks like. How all around those individuals are affected.

In the same way, we have looked a little bit at how the analogy of the physical body can be applied to the spiritual body of Christ. Unfortunately, we do not view it the same, treat it the same, or are as concerned about the effects of the spiritual as we are the physical.

God has left us scripture to guide the Body of Christ. It is the Authority with which a Bible believing Christian church should be modeled after. That being said, there are many different beliefs within what is considered "christian" churches. In order to be "christian", there are some common beliefs that have to match up with scripture, otherwise they are not considered "christian".  i.e.,.....God is the creator, Jesus is the son of God, Jesus was born of a Virgin, the Trinity, .......etc.

There are other beliefs within "christian" churches that many will disagree on. As believers, we should desire to know what scripture says, and what we believe it is saying, in context to those who is was written to, and how it applies to us now. This is way to big to get into right now.

We will be looking at Biblical Leadership. We will look at some examples of biblical leadership from scripture, Old Testament and New. This will be done mainly in the context of how the Body of Christ should be lead. Biblical leadership is crucial to the Body of Christ. Crucial to it functioning as intended, crucial to its effectiveness in its purpose, crucial to its health, crucial to its growth, and crucial to its direction.

As I have said in previous posts, pivot points are specific points that give us the opportunity for spiritual transformation, times when something happens, and we then choose a specific direction to proceed in.

I have been active in church for the majority of my life. Went to college to become a youth pastor. And, long story short, have had many, many pivot points that revolve around biblical leadership. So, over time, I have spent more and more energy diving into biblical leadership, and its role in leading the body of Christ.

In Biblical leadership, we will look at two of the aspects that the Bible focuses on, the function and the character of the leader. And how this relates to the spiritual health of the Body of Christ.

In this post I will focus on the function.
What is the function of the biblical leader? Why does the bible talk about leaders anyway?

Obviously, any look into the Old Testament, is not directly referring to the Body of Christ, but that of Israel. That being said, the function for the leaders of Israel was different, yet similar to that of the New Testament leaders. Their function is laid out from Exodus to Deuteronomy (and beyond). Summed up in Deut. 1:9-18. These leaders were to preside over worship, administer rebuke and discipline, settle disputes, exercise oversight over the spiritual and material affairs of the Jewish community. Lev. 19:1-2 Israel was called to be Holy (set apart) as the LORD was holy. All of the commandments, laws, statutes, offerings....etc, were directed to Israel, so that Israel would be set apart from every other nation. The function of leaders were to know all the commandments, laws, offerings, etc, so that Israel would indeed be Holy and set apart. God gave the standard. The leaders were to be held to that standard, and be responsible to hold the people to that same standard.

In the New Testament, there are many references to leadership, and it's function.
Paul writes to both Timothy and Titus regarding leadership. There are two words used to define leadership, "elder" and "overseer". The two Greek words are "presbuteros" and "episkopos" Their purpose was to provide oversight over life and function of local congregations. Luke writes of Paul's words to the "elders" of Ephesus, and of their function in Acts 20:28-30, charging them 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."
1 Timothy 5:17 refers to the "elder" who preaches to and teaches the congregation.
2 Timothy 4:1-2  speaks of preaching the word,  reproving, rebuking, and exhorting with complete patience and teaching.
Titus 2:1 speaks of teaching with what accords to sound doctrine.
1 Peter 5 :1-3 Peter exhorts the elders , to shepherd the flock of God, exercising oversight willingly, and to be examples to the flock.

So in a general summary, the biblical leader is to uphold the following functions withing the body:
1. to oversee the flock
2. to care for/shepherd the church
3. to preach
4. to teach sound doctrine
5. to be examples to the flock

This is just a very short list. Not intended to be exhaustive, but generally representative.
The purpose of this list is not only about the function of the biblical leader, it is about the importance of the role of biblical leader in the local congregation and in the Body of Christ.

As I have previously posted. A big pivot point for me was a study I did on the Body of Christ.
In that study, my biblical convictions grew drastically. I had a new found biblical understanding of what the Body of Christ should look like, what it's leadership should like, what leadership's responsibility was, and what happens when leadership fails to lead in biblical purpose, both in it's call to holiness and in it's tangible and intentional discipleship training through ministries for all ages.

In college, I had a class called Philosophy of Ministry. Our final project was to have a written out Philosophy of Ministry. It included a Mission statement, a Vision statement, written out Goals for the ministry, written out Steps to reach those goals, written out evaluation process of Philosophy, and last but not least, written out Biblical verses with context, that support each and every statement that was included in the project. I look back at that and laugh at most of what I wrote, at the same time I am sad that I wasn't held to a higher biblical accountability from the leadership.

This proved to be a frustration point for me in church. I would want to know what the purpose of any specific church was. Why did they exist? Why did they do what they do? How did they make decisions? Did they have a Philosophy of Ministry? Did they have a Mission? What was it? Why did each of their ministries exist? Was it really a step towards meeting any tangible goal? Was any ministry up for evaluation? Did leadership care if ministries were fruitful? Who were the leaders? How did they get to be in leadership? Are there elders or overseers? How many? Could you even ask these questions of leadership? ......etc.

Does that seem like a lot of questions? Well........it shouldn't seem like a lot!! The list should be 10 times that long! If a church is going to exist, it should be for a purpose. The majority of New Testament writings are to correct wrong belief, and wrong actions. It was the writers, writing to "churches" or "believers", correcting them, rebuking them, disciplining them, leading them, and prodding them to the standard of what the Body of Christ should not only look like, but actually be.

That being said, do "Christians" even care about any of that? It has been my experience that the answer is "NO". Instead of the Body of Christ being what the Bible calls it to be, it is much more of a social club, a family and friend hang out, something you check off the box as a "Christian", you are there when it is convenient, and as long as there is no real accountability to scripture and the holiness we are called to.

If we were to be honest, we would know that the Body of Christ to most outsiders, and to many believers, resemble a body suffering from MS, ALS, Lyme disease, Parkinson's, Tourette's, Cancer, Down's syndrome, Autism, CHD, Cerebral Palsy, and even Schizophrenia.

Said like that, I can hear a collective gasp, how can I say something like that? The reason most non-believers want nothing to do with "Christianity"?? The answer is, Christians! Why are there so many believers who no longer are interested in church or going to church?? The answer is their experience with other Christians. Any look into research supports this.  So is this a tangent?? No, it's a segway into the crucial role of Biblical Leadership.

Part 2 will be more on Biblical Leadership, a little more on function and a whole lot on the character required of the Biblical leader. And how they correspond with each other.

Pivot Points........Put up or Shut up!!

Metamorphoo......Metamorphisis.....the process of transformation.

For the Caterpillar, to prepare for the cocoon, it eats constantly. That readies it for the Metamorphoo that will occur.

My Pivot Points revolved primarily around taking in God's word. Reading has never been one of my favorite things to do. But God's word was hitting me in ways that it never had before. Reading God's word was reforming what I believed. Pivot points #1 and #2 were direct result of God's word.

Pivot Point #3 was a time of a big decision. We had been part of a Sunday school class for 3 years. The "leader" of the class was deciding to step down. The class had some structure, but overall wasn't really intentional in any way. I had talked to leadership about some ideas that I had, but they weren't received very warmly. It was time that I needed to decide....put up or shut up. The Holy Spirit was already working on my heart and mind, and I knew that the vision I had for the class was way too big to implement on my own. After much prayer I decided to talk to one of the previous leaders. He had been a co-leader my first year in the class. To make a long story.....shorter.......we talked a lot. My ideas and thoughts, with his ideas and thoughts, became a vision that we shared. We were very different in skill set, but we shared a common desire for the class. We threw our names into the hat. The "leadership" went from one overworked individual to co-leadership(me and Todd), with a team of seven other volunteers who were responsible for implementing the vision of the class. This was a huge endeavor. Metamorphoo was in full speed. It wasn't very easy, actually it was very tiring!!! There were many times that I had to really focus on being obedient to God. As we all know, we can't please everyone. Some are very vocal with their thoughts, others are passive aggressive, neither are much fun to deal with. God was really working in me, I had to choose to be humble, loving, confident, obedient, and persevere different types of "storms" to realize the vision that we had for our brothers and sisters in our class.

As a Youth pastor, I was very familiar with having a philosophy,mission, vision, and goals for a ministry. At this church, I didn't want to change theirs, just find out what they were and be intentional and specific in trying to meet them. I was somewhat surprised to find that no adult Sunday school class knew what the purpose of the classes were. They just kind of did their own thing, depending on who the leaders were. This was an important time of growth for me.

Leadership isn't for wimps. God was using this as a Pivot point in my life. What was God doing with me and in me? I went from Youth ministry, to not going to church at all, back into church, and now co-leading an adult Sunday school class. What was next?...........pivot point #4, ManUp.