Scripture Reference: Acts 6:1-8

The life of any church cannot rise above the level of its leaders. Someone once wrote, “Like pastor, like people; like teachers, like students.” In my experience over the years it is the same in business. A business reflects the attitudes and leadership of its employers. So too does the church with its leadership. It becomes essential, therefore, that those upon whom God has placed the responsibility of leadership should be well qualified. Church leaders should not only possess eternal life, but in actuality life more abundant.

Satan hurls many obstacles in the path of a growing church. The treasurer of the first church betrayed the Lord, stole the offerings, and then committed suicide. The church continued to grow. The apostles were imprisoned, beaten, and threatened, but the church continued to grow. Two prominent members of the church, Ananias and Sapphira, were hypocrites. They lied about their offerings, but the church continued to grow. Then there arose dissension inside the church as they argued over the benevolence fund, and church growth stopped. Today, many in a spiritual church face just as many hardships with health issues, financial and even relationship issues; anything the enemy can use to get a spiritual people’s eyes off of Christ Jesus. However, the church can overcome the devil’s opposition from without, but it can never afford division within the fellowship, that is why love for the brethren (and sisters) is so important.

In Acts 6 when the disciples saw that the church fellowship was threatened, they called the congregation together and proposed a solution. The congregation would select seven spiritually qualified leaders. These leaders would handle the ministry of benevolence. The apostles then would give themselves to praying and proclaiming the Word of God.

The church family liked this solution. They selected seven men who were honest, Spirit filled, and wise. They laid their hands on them and prayed for the ministry they would perform.

Many believe that these men were the first deacons or elders ordained by the church. We know for certain that they were the first church leaders selected by the congregation in the New Testament. The result of their ministry was miraculous. A great number of people were saved, miracles took place, and it was evident that God was blessing the church because even some of the priests were also converted (Acts 6:7-8).

The church desperately needs leaders today! What are the qualities that should characterize those who hold office in the church? In Acts 6 the church leaders are described in essence as being saved, select, sincere, steadfast, and spiritual.

To Be Continued

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, ESV © 2016 by Crossway Bibles.
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