Session 2 September 15th 2020
Read
Titus 1:5-9
The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. 6 An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. 7 Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless – not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. 8 Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. 9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.
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There it is: the perfect job. It’s the one you’ve dreamed about, prepared for and always wanted. It’s there in the ad, an email, or at the end of the boss’s sentence—‘We’d like to talk to you about an opportunity.’
In Titus 1:5-9, Paul lists the job description for such an opportunity—church leadership. His want advert used words we still find in effective leaders today: blameless, faithful, not overbearing, not quick-tempered, self-controlled, holy and disciplined—even being a good parent is covered.
As individuals, spouses, parents, and even friends, we all have the responsibility to lead. And the qualities described are needed for all.
But, maybe thoughts of leadership bring feelings that say, “not worthy, ill-equipped—terrified!”
We may shy away from leadership. We don’t have or want a title or position that includes it. What we do have is a Saviour who says ‘Lead!’ In John 21:15-17, Jesus tells Peter to feed and care for His sheep. As Christ followers, we lead others to know who Jesus is and share what He is doing in our own lives.
Each one of us is a leader—with a job description just like Paul gave to Titus—whether we are at home, with friends or on the job. As individuals, spouses, and parents, we have the responsibility to lead.
Most of us look into the future dreaming of the position we wish we had. God calls us to be responsible for the one we already have—showing the world Jesus by being like Him.
Reflect and pray
What qualities do you see in those who lead you?
Are we asking the Holy spirit to work them out in us?
Where do you see Jesus in their lives? Front and centre?
What is one way you can be a leader in front of your friends and family this week?