Growing into Christ (6)

For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict. Titus 1.7-9

The Elder and His Work
David Dickson (1821-1885)
“Having many different characters and tempers to deal with, we need as elders to be men of a meek and quiet spirit, not going from one extreme to another – men of practical wisdom and sanctified common sense, and thus able to judge of matters calmly and not as partisans.”

Church leaders must be people of discernment, able to judge with righteous judgment (Jn. 7.24) in ministering the Word of God to His people. We need as elders, deacons, and church leaders people who work as hard to be disciples of Christ as they do at doing the work of disciples. As we grow into Jesus, so will those who look for us to lead and care for them as shepherds in the flock of God. The Spirit of God works for righteousness, peace, and joy in our souls, bringing forth in us fruit, gifts, and power for being witnesses and making disciples. When the Spirit we seek and nurture within us is the Spirit of God, then comforting, encouraging, and edifying others in Jesus will be our natural way of life. Only when our spirits are filled and controlled by the Spirit of God will we be fit to help others grow into Him.

How does your church train leaders? What part of that training focuses on developing the spiritual life of the leader?

Pastoral Hope Initiative
Pastor, where are you in your walk with and work for the Lord? Are you growing? Covering all the bases? Working fruitfully toward the Kingdom of God? Our Pastoral Hope Initiative can help you establish a framework and baseline for steady, fruitful growth into the Lord Jesus; and for the remainder of this spring, we’re waiving the fee for men who want to work through this 14-week protocol. Watch this brief video, then, if you’re interested, let me hear from you at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Fellowship of Ailbe is supported through the generous and faithful gifts of those who benefit from and believe in our work. Does the Lord want to use you in this way? Please look to Him in prayer over this question. You can contribute to The Fellowship of Ailbe by using the Contribute button at our website, or by sending your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452. Thank you.

Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.All quotations are from David Dickson, The Elder and His Work (Dallas: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1990).