Character and Leadership (Part 2): Maturity

Jim Leffel
1 Timothy 3:1-13

Spiritual leadership is desperately needed by the church. Those who desire to become leaders should, over all else, desire to be a faithful representation of Christ. This is only possible through spiritual maturity in areas such as home life, self-control, reputation, and the ability to teach others.

The Word of God

Ryan Lowery
Nehemiah 8:1-18

The people of Nehemiah's day found that they wanted to do the will of God, but were largely ignorant about the Scriptures. In order for the Word of God to have its proper effects, we must allow the Word to impact us intellectually, to affect our hearts, and to move us forward into action motivated by love.

Character and Leadership (Part 1): Ambition

Jim Leffel
1 Timothy 3:1-13

Ambition to influence others is a virtue that is promoted in Scripture. Many have observed negative examples of worldly ambition, or even a lack of ambition in the church. But spiritual ambition is a thoughtful passion rooted in vision, expressed in Christ-like serving, and resulting in a rich reward from God.

Seeing Yourself as a Steward

Conrad Hilario
1 Timothy 5:3-25

According to the Bible, we should view ourselves as stewards of what God has given us. The Bible exhorts us to provide for our families, the poor, and full-time Christian workers. The concept of stewardship can be lived out in a corporate sense through churches wisely deciding where to spend money. On an individual level, Christians should view their entire life as a gift from God and specifically take a stewardship view towards money and generosity.

The Way Up Is Down

Mike Sullivan
Matthew 20:17-28

According to Jesus, spiritual leaders must have the attitude of a servant. He modeled these principles through his life, death, and teaching. Ultimately, leadership greatness can only come from God through the service of others as we trust him to lift us up.

Staying Centered in Christ

Ryan Lowery
Nehemiah 6:1-16

In Christian service, a common tactic from the enemies of God is to try to bait us into extreme reactions. But Scripture calls us to an even-keeled approach where we are centered in the truth. It is looking at the cross that helps us to avoid extremes.

How to Lead When You Are Young

Scott Risley
1 Timothy 4:11-16

God isn't into the seniority system. He's looking to rescue people and He will work through everyone who is willing, even if they are young. Paul talks to Timothy on the importance of what he does and how it relates to his leadership as a young man. We look at the importance of church commitment and look at the downsides if we lack in this area.

Challenges to Spiritual Leadership

Conrad Hilario
1 Timothy 4:1-16

As a relatively inexperienced and young leader, Timothy had a variety of challenges to his leadership. Paul offers six pieces of advice: 1) don't be surprised when people fall away; 2) keep the message of Christ at the center; 3) you can't lead others unless you yourself are growing; 4) stand on the authority of God's Word; 5) remember that God commissioned you; and 6) people should see where our lives are heading. Those who are able to persevere in the face of challenges are able to do incredible work for God.

Organic Leadership in Action

Dennis McCallum
1 Timothy 4:12-16

Paul encourages Timothy to continue to lead the church with humility and service. The main instruction he gives Timothy is to dedicate to preaching and teaching of the Word. Through Timothy's commitment to spiritual character and undying effort to the New Testament church, others will see his progress in the faith.