A Vision for Christian Leadership (Part 1)

Scott Risley
1 Timothy 3:1-2

Why should we want to be a leader? We learn from Paul what the qualifications are for being an elder and deacon. Timothy was given guidance from Paul on how to choose leaders and we can learn from this for those who aspire to be a leader in the body of Christ.

Freedom and Slavery

Gary DeLashmutt
Galatians 5:13

The Bible tells us to consider ourselves as utterly free yet at the same time as slaves. Christ has purchased our freedom from slavery to: humans, the Law, and sin. However, this freedom is also for the purpose of become "slaves" to God, and our experience of this freedom increases through choosing to live as slaves according to God's design.

Introduction

Gary DeLashmutt
1 Corinthians 1:18-30

Key biblical teachings often strike us as contrary to common sense, counter-intuitive, or even foolish. This is because it is actually our thinking about major areas of life that is backward. Ultimately, at the center of the backwards wisdom of God is the cross.

Remaining in the Center

Conrad Hilario
1 Timothy 1:1-5

On the outside, Timothy appeared to be weak and timid, but God was able to make him into a spiritual leader. In his letter to Timothy, Paul urges him to ensure that the central message of Christ is emphasized. False teachers were trying to emphasize esoteric teachings that have no value. A community that emphasizes the right things is able to be used powerfully by God.

Solomon Rising

Dennis McCallum
1 Kings 1:1-4:34

The author records the succession of kingship following David's reign. David's son Adonijah declares himself king, ignoring the Davidic covenant which was established by God. David, with the support of God and Nathan the prophet, anoints Solomon as king. David advises Solomon that if he follows God then his line will be established as the rulers of Israel. God appears to Solomon in a dream and offers to grant him what he asks for. Solomon requests wisdom to lead the people. Solomon is granted wisdom and also blessed with wealth and becomes renown in neighboring regions.

Marriage and Family, God's Way

Scott Risley
Colossians 3:18-21

God has a specific design and way he desires us to live out our marriages and family life. Within marriage, God's emphasis is each partner playing their role within marriage. For the husband, that means to demonstrate sacrificial, loving leadership like Christ. For wives, this includes support and respecting the husband's leadership.

Bearing Witness of Christ

Jim Leffel
Colossians 4:2-6

Speaking of Christ can be a touchy topic, but if the Bible is true then this is something worth talking about. In order to do effective evangelism, we must devote ourselves to effective prayer. Also, we must pursue wisdom to make the most of the opportunities that we are presented with.

Knowledge, Wisdom, Understanding

Ryan Lowery
Colossians 1:9-12

A key component of growing with God is knowledge of His will, however, knowledge requires the wisdom of how to use it. Head knowledge is not enough. Our understanding of God's will and His love will be incomplete unless we have taken steps to employ the knowledge that we have to our lives in a practical way. This growing knowledge, wisdom, and understanding comes directly from God and is what results in a life that honors and pleases Him.

Knowing the Will of God

Ryan Lowery
Acts 11:1-17

One of the most commonly asked questions is "how can I know God's will for my life?" While there are clear boundaries set forth in the Bible, often important decisions can fall in a morally neutral gray area. As Peter defends the idea that God's will is to preach to the gentiles, he suggests a variety of principles that can be used together to discern God's will.