There are two passages assigned for today!
SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 3
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory. [1 Timothy 3: 16]
True godliness – or God-likeness (to be like God) is rooted in the spirit and example of Christ – self-denial not self-assertion.
After describing how church leaders ought to live and lead, he roots it in the example of Jesus.
Being a leader is not about one’s position but about one’s posture – humility, integrity, honesty, mercy, morality.
This is true not only for leaders, but for everyone in the church – how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. [1 Timothy 3:15]
“You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” [Mark 10:42-45]
Jesus is rebuking James and John, and all the other disciples, for thinking of their position more than their posture.
He shows them that true godliness, as well as godly leadership, is patterned after His own example of self-denial – not the self-assertion that worldly leaders strive for.
This is how the gospel penetrates the world, as Jesus followers – led by the example of their leaders – serve others in Jesus’ Name.
This is how the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth, is built by Christ in the world.
For the church to succeed, we do not need to be power leaders, we do not need to be successful businesses, we do not need MBAs; these are not bad things, they are just not necessary for success (talk to the thriving house churches in China).
The church IS the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth, so Christ will build it and it will succeed, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
With this confidence, we need to take up the servants towel with Jesus and lead like Him, for this is the mystery from which true godliness springs.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us how leaders ought to lead, for modelling true godliness and true leadership on Your knees.