Table of Contents
The Tabernacle Prayer
Adapted from The Book “The Remnant” By Larry Stockstill
Teach Us To Pray . . .
One of the first things Jesus taught his disciples to do was to pray.
Luke 11:11And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a
certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto
him, Lord, teach us to pray KJV
What Is Prayer?
• Prayer is . . . conversingwith God
• Prayer is . . . coming near toGod
• Prayer is . . . seeking audience with Godin person
• Prayer is . . .toentreat grace
• Prayer is . . .to seek judgement seeking God’s will in the situation)
Luke 11:2 And he said unto them, when ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. KJV
. . .our Father –
• This denotes our position in this relationship. We come as a child, to our Father. He is not earthy or temporal or fleshy as our earthly father: He is Heavenly, Eternal and Spirit. God is love. We come not as a beggar to a rich man but as a little child to someone we trust. This position is gained only through belief in Christ Jesus
. . .which art in Heaven –
• Again, God is on His throne in heaven. He is “high and lifted up”
. . .hallowed be thy name –
• There is power in His name, therefore His name is holy, awesome
• Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is saved KJV
. . .thy Kingdom come
• The Bible teaches us to pray according to the Will of God - are we praying for His will or ours? Will we surrender our will to His?
The “furniture” in the Old Testament Tabernacle was placed in the shape of
a Cross.
The Brazen Altar
• The Brazen Altar Represents The Cross
• The Cross is the beginning of the Christian faith
• It was a functioning altar – huge animal placed on top, fire consumed from beneath
• PRAYER
• Pray with gratitude for what Christ did on the Cross
• Every day newly and deeply thankful for the Cross
The Laver
• The Laver Represents sanctification
• The laver was shaped like a bird bath
• Its Surface was like a mirror
• When the priest would begin cleaning himself, he would look down and see himself in the reflection of the laver
• Look at ourselves through God’s Word,
• Ephesians 5:26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the wordKJV
• 1 Corinthians 11:28But let a man examine himself KJV
• Wholly sanctified
• 1 Thessalonians 5:23And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spiritand souland bodybe preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus ChristKJV
• bodies – hands, eyes, and tongue
• minds – pride, greed, and lust
• spirits – praying for the fruits of The Spirit
• Ten Commandments – any issues with us in those
The Candlestick
• The Candlestick Represents The Holy Ghost
• Light - No other light in the tabernacle other than what came from the candlesticks or from the Presence of the Lord over the Ark
• 7 aspects of the Holy Ghost
The Candlestick
• Isaiah 11:2And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LordKJV
• Spirit of The Lord
• Spirit of Wisdom
• Spirit of Understanding
• Spirit of Counsel
• Spirit of Might
• Spirit of Knowledge
• Fear of The Lord
The Table of Shewbread
• The Table of Shewbread Represents Relationships
• Fellowship
• Within the Church
• Do we get along with other leadership?
• Are we humble before our leaders as well as those we lead?
• 1 Corinthians 10:17For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one breadKJV
• Outsidethe Church
• Do we have a burden to reach the lost?
• Do we have broken relationships?
• Pray for leadership, for each other, for those whom God has allowed us to lead
The Altar of Incense
• The Altar of Incense Represents Worship
• Ephesians 5:19Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus ChristKJV
• Psalms 105:33 Glory ye in his holy name: KJV
• Psalms 29:22 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.KJV
• Psalms 23 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. KJV
• This is a Psalm of worship, of submission to and love of God.
• We worship God because He is . . .
• Jehovah~Rohi – myShepherd(The Lord is my Shepherd)
• Jehovah~Jireh – my Provider (I shall not want)
• Jehovah~Shalom – my Peace(He makes me lie down in green pastures)
• Jehovah~Rapha – my Healer (He restores my soul)
• Jehovah~Tsidkenu – my Righteousness(He guides me in the paths of righteousness)
• Jehovah~Shammah – my Presence (Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death . . .You are with me)
• Jehovah~Nissi – my Defender(You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies)
The Ark of the Covenant
• The Ark of The Covenant Represents Intercession
• The high priest came once a year to make intercession for Israel
• Hebrews 7:25Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; 27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. KJV
What Is Customs?
Romans 12:2Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. NLT
Bad Fruit
• Often when traveling across international borders a traveler will be asked if he “has any fresh fruit or meat.”
• The welcoming country does not want “bad fruit” or “bad meat” to enter for fear of disease, or worse, death.
• Sometimes even after coming to Christ, we have some “bad fruit” in our lives that may consist of false theology, unfaithfulness or just not knowing what the Word of God says about a specific issue. Those attitudes and actions can keep us from crossing “borders” in leadership and limit our effectiveness in the Body of Christ
• This class is designed to root around, to look deep into who we are and assist us in “declaring” any “bad fruit” we might have
• You cannot hold a person responsible for what they have not been taught – more specifically for what you have not taught them
A Custom Is . . .
(As defined by Merriam Webster’s Dictionary)
. . .a usage or practice commonto many or to a particular place or class or habitual with an individual
. ..long-established practice considered as unwritten law
. . .repeatedpractice
. . . duties, tolls, or imposts imposed by the sovereign law of a country
• If a person desires to become a leader, there is a price to be paid. This class is just a bare bones beginning to a lifelong journey of discipleship – learning/growing in Christ personally and teaching others what we have learned as well as acting out what we say we believe
A usage or practice commonto many or to a particular place or habitual with an individual . . .
• Simply put, our customs are the cultureof our Church
• This is what we do and how we do it - how we act and how we expect those around us to act
• Our customs are what is normal for us & what others can expect from us
• There is a set Biblical pattern for how Christians should behave, when we act like Christ taught us, we draw others to Him
• Every Church has a “personality” whether good or bad. If not guided and intentional, a personality may develop that is NOT Christ-like and offend rather than draw, Customs Class is an intentional development of culture in the life of a maturing Christian
• Good habits can be taught, learned and repeated
• The focus is inward, what I am doing rather than what I see others doing, I choose to be an example to those around me so that as I grow closer to Christ others will follow
A long established practice considered as an unwritten law . . .
• Our customs are norms, not exceptions – this is what you can expect from me, and from our team
• Standards of holiness, accountability, and faithfulness that we practice everyday, in both public and private
• Consistency begats stability– stability begats comfort– comfort begats love
• When I know what to expect I can be comfortable
• When I become comfortable with a Church, ministry or person I may come to love it/them
• When I love something, I tend to become a part of what I love
• Love casts out fear. Some choose to not serve Christ or in the Body of Christ because of the lack of Christ-like consistency seen, or worse, they have seen Christians consistently acting exactly opposite of what Christ taught
A repeatedpractice . . .
• Customs are not just what I say I do, but what I really do on a regular basis
• What you see when you meet me Sunday morning is what you see and get wherever and whenever you meet me
• My lifestyle will not be of one who “does” ministry, but of one who “is” ministry
Duties, tolls, or imposts imposed by the sovereignlaw of a country . . .
• Since we are citizens of God’s Kingdom, our customs and culture should come from Him/His Word
• The cost for entering His Country, His Kingdom, His Calling may be that we must lay some things down; rid our lives, hearts and thoughts from “bad fruit”
• God is Sovereign and holds each member of His Kingdom to the same standard of holiness, attitude, faithfulness and accountability
Discipleship
Advantages of Discipleship
I. Discipleship is biblical
A. Discipleship is the process God chose to matureChristians
1. Matthew 28:19Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. KJV
2. 1 Corinthians 11:1Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. KJV
II. Protection from past mistakes
A. Knowledge is power. . .
1. To not repeat mistakes
I. Proverbs 23:12Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge. KJV
II. Philippians 3:13Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus KJV
III. Proverbs 26:11As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly. KJV
2. No longer vulnerable to ignorance
I. Proverbs 22:28Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. KJV
II. Job 12:12With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding. KJV
III. Accountability
A. Knowing that others are watching and you will give an answer
1. 1 Corinthians 4:2Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. KJV
B. Safety in advice from others
1. Proverbs 12:15The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise. KJV
2. Proverbs 11:14Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. KJV
IV. Discipline
A. Actions and decisions have consequences
1. Galatians 6:7Be not deceived; God is not mocked : for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. KJV
I. Discipline will be discussed more in later lessons
Integrity and Transparency
· Discipleship is about relationships. About discipline. About growing and allowing God to change us from the inside out. Old things passing away and Christ being formed inside us.
· Samsonfrom the Old Testament was not in any sort of accountability relationship and without that relationship it was easier for him to fall into sin
· Samson engaged in immorality after a period of time and did not even realize that the anointing of God had left him
o It is possible for people within leadership, within the church to function on their gifts even after the anointing of God has been removed from their lives
§ A good singer may still be able to sing, but may not be anointed by God
§ A good teacher may still be able to deliver amazing lectures and teach – but without the Holy Spirit’s empowerment there will likely be precious little lasting fruit
o Discipleship provides opportunities for both transparencyand accountability, making it more difficult for people to operate in their giftings without the anointing
o Satan is another leader who remains very gifted and continues to “lead” while no longer operating in the anointing of God
§ Satan, while having great gifts, was unbroken and unyielding to God
· Anointing VS Gifting
o Anointing
§ Submitsto others
§ Operates in brokenness
§ Is yieldedto The Lord
§ Operates in and promotes peace, less tension
o Giftings
§ Focues on selfor my ministry
§ Self assertion into a situation
§ Self promotion
· Isaiah 14:13For thou hast said in thine heart , I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. 15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. KJV
o I, I, I, I, I!!! Me, Me, Me!
Mentoring And Discipleship
I. Judges 17:6In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes. KJV
· Without leadership and submission to leadership people will go their own way, doing “what is right in their own eyes”
· There is an old saying “divide and conquer”
o When we have no covering, no accountability and no one to speak into or over our lives, we can become “separated from the herd” and singled out for spiritual slaughter
II. 1 Corinthians 4:15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.
17 For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church. KJV
a. I teach you, you teach them, they teach others
i. We have a greater anointing together
b. Do you remember who taught you to tie your shoes? Who taught you any number of basic life lesson? You may or may not remember the name of your kindergarten teacher though that person laid a foundation for you for the rest of your life. Though that foundation was important, you aren’t likely to call them up and ask them advise on who to marry, how to rid sin from your life or confess if you are struggling. That is what Paul was speaking to. Instructors are good – spiritual fathers are better.
c. Paul was also saying that he wanted others to follow him (Paul) and so he was sending Timothy for them to imitate.
i. Follow Paul, but following Timothy
ii. Paul trustedTimothy, – God trusts us to make disciples
iii. Paul on more than one occasion had something to say or set in order and instead of going himself, he sent Timothy. When you saw Timothy, you saw Paul.
1. Christ echoed this in the following passage . . .
a. John 14:9he that hath seen me hath seen the Father KJV
Wisdom
James 3:17But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. KJV
James 3:17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. NIV
James 3:17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure and full of quiet gentleness. Then it is peace-loving and courteous. It allows discussion and is willing to yield to others; it is full of mercy and good deeds. It is wholehearted and straightforward and sincere.TLB
· Wisdom from above is
o Pure
o Peacable
o Gentle
o Open to reason (listens AND hears)
o Full of mercy
o Has good fruits
o Is not a respecter of person
o Is without hypocrisy
The Unfathered
Mentoring For The Unfathered
Dysfunctional
· may be defined as “deviating from normal behavior”
· Normal behavior cannot be defined by a man, a culture or even a Church, it must be defined by the Word of God. Standards for morality, normalcy, right and wrong must come from God’s holy Word.
· Lack of fathering promotes dysfunction in the local family as well as the Body of Christ
The Unfathered
· A primary reason for instability and failure, especially in Church as a whole is that there is either no father figure or the figure in place is not consistent, Godly, and/or involved.
· Even Jesus, whose Father was, literally, God Almighty Creator of all, had an involved Father who was real, present, and consistent.
· Mark 1:9And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. 10 And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him11 And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.KJV
Absent Fathers . . .
• Leave a person with little or no accountability
• Leave a person to work through “who they are” with little or no guidance or direction, therefore no intention of character/outcome
• Development of character is and should be intentional
• Character can be taught, developed and passed on
• Without intentional teaching and development, the “locker room” becomes the place where character and the facts of life are learned
Fathers Who Are Respecters of Children . . .
· Create posers . . .
o Men/women who wrestle with who they are and if they have what it takes to be who they want to be
§ Jacob - was not his fathers favorite, developed a sense of rejection
§ Obvious issues between loyalties between his mother and his father
§ His mother encouraged him to walk in deceit when dealing with his father
o Gen 25:28And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved JacobKJV
o Ps 139:14I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made : marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.KJV
§ Each of us are The Wonderful Works of God. We may differ in abilities and so forth, but God has created us unique for His glory
§ One must come to grips with imperfect family dynamics, overcome who you are thought to be by fathers, family members and even yourself and see yourself as God created you and called you to be
The Answer – Government And Mentoring
• All Church government should flow from an environment of affirmation, validation and acceptance. Recognizing unique abilities and giftings but not holding to one over the other – not respecting persons.
• The early Church was hands on, where Christ went so went the disciples.
• They had “all things common” - they had relationship. When one had a need, the others were aware of that need and responded accordingly.
• There were overseers/elders who provided mentoring structure, to affirm, advise, and correct if necessary.
• Proper Church Government can provide some of the apostolic function in ministry, as well as develop relationships in which discipleship is inherrent
Discipline
Matt 10:24 The discipleis not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.KJV
Why do we have pastors and leaders in our lives? For a good sermon? To come and pray with us in the hospital? To marry and bury us? Yes to each of these things and far more. A biblical pastor is a shepherd. He is in place, set by God, to lead us. There is a leader. There must also be followers. The Bible teaches us that God Himself sets leadership over our lives, to which we are to submit and follow, not blindly of course, but as they follow The Lord . . .
· Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. KJV
· 1 Corinthians 11:1Be ye followers of me , even as I also am of Christ. KJV
Elihu Is Speaking Of God
Job 36:10He openeth also their ear to discipline , and commandeth that they return from iniquity. 11 If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures. 12 But if they obey not, they shall perish by the sword, and they shall die without knowledge. KJV
• Discipline- OT:4148 rs*Wm muwcar (moo-sawr'); from OT:3256; properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint: KJV - bond, chastening ([-eth]), chastisement, check, correction, discipline, doctrine, instruction, rebuke
• Restraint–
• From sin. . .Prov 14:12There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death KJV
• Those who are placed over us are there for a reason, God has placed in our lives “spiritual lifeguards”
• From ”circling the mountain”
• Prov 22:28Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. KJV
• We can learn from others what does not work and not “reinvent the wheel”
• From dead end living and ministry that goes nowhere
• Prov 26:11As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly. KJV
Elders
A name frequently used in the Old Testament as denoting a person clothed with authority, and entitled to respect and reverence(Genesis 50:7). It also denoted a political office (Numbers 22:7). The "elders of Israel" held a rank among the people indicative of authority. Moses opened his commission to them (Exodus 3:16). They attended Moses on all important occasions.
· Genesis 50:7And Joseph went up to bury his father: and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh, the elders of his house, and all the elders of the land of Egypt, KJV
· Numbers 22:7And the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with the rewards of divination in their hand; and they came unto Balaam, and spake unto him the words of Balak. KJV
1 Tim 5:19Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. 21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure. KJV
• Elders are not above sin, however they are to be treated as elders, with honor.
1 Tim 5:17Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. KJV
• Elders are not just “older” people.
Fake Sons
Heb 12:6For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth , and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?KJV
• Bastard - NT:3541 <START GREEK>no/qo$ <END GREEK> nothos (noth'-os; of uncertain affinity; a spuriousorillegitimate son: KJV - bastard. 3.
• Spurious– adjective not being what it purports to be; false or fake."separating authentic and spurious claims. Fake, false, counterfeit, forged, artificial, imitation, deceptive, misleading, pretend 4.
• It is clear that the son in this passage has a choice– to submit to leadership/chastening and be counted as a son, or to NOT submit and be counted as illegitimate.
• The world teaches that a son without a father is a “bastard” or illegitimate, but the Word of God teaches differently. The son in the Bible is not called this because he was BORN without a father, but because he REFUSED to submit to his father. This is a stark difference in the way the word is used as we know it from the way it is used in the Bible.
• Refusal to come under discipline causes us to no longer be counted as sons! IT IS A CHOICE!!
Importance Of Sonship
· A birthright referred to a person's inheritance. For most of the world's history, the first born child of a family would receive an extra inheritance from his father. When a father died, they would count his surviving children and add one to the count. They would then divide the inheritance that many ways and the eldest child would get two portions. Thus, if a man died having three surviving children, his inheritance would be divided four ways. The eldest child would receive two-fourths (that is, one-half) of the estate, and the other two children would receive one-fourth of the estate each.
· The birthright can be seen in this Mosaical law: "But he shall acknowledge the son of the unloved wife as the firstborn by giving him a double portion of all that he has, for he is the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn is his" (Deuteronomy 21:17). The double portion came as a right of birth; that is, by the right of being first born
· When Elisha asked for a double portion, he was essentially requesting to be seen as a son. It was that important to him. He was speaking in reference to the Mosaic law mentioned in Deuteronomy. BUT – he not only wanted to be seen as a son, but a FIRST BORN SON
· Elijah, knowing the law and anointed by God, called Elisha to obedience. Elisha submitted and likely did not understand the “why” but trusted his leader, his father and did as he was told. He submitted.
o There are times when leaders cannot fully explain decisions they make:
§ The timing may not be right for the full vision to be revealed
§ Persons involved may be guilty but privacy is essential
§ The leader is aware of facts that cannot be conveyed fully to those following
· Sometimes you just have to trust them . . .
o If you cannot trust a leader – it may be time to leave
· 2 Kings 2:9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.10 And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so.11 And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.12 And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, KJV
Faithfulness
Matthew 25:23His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. KJV
• Loyalty & Faithfulness
• Matthew 25:23His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithfulover a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. KJV
• Faithful- NT:4103 START GREEK>pisto/$ <END GREEK> pistos (pis-tos'); from NT:3982; objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful
• KJV - believe(-ing, -r), faithful (-ly), sure, true.
• NT:3982 START GREEK>pei/qw <END GREEK> peitho pi'-tho); a primary verb; to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy, to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively, to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty):
• KJV - agree, assure, believe, have confidence, be (wax) confident, make friend, obey, persuade, trust, yield.
Why Is Faithfulness Important?
• For The Love of God To Fill The Church
• Christian ministry is supposed to be marked by the power of love, unity and teamwork
• John 13: 35By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. KJV
• Psalms 23:2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.KJV
• James 3:16For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peaceKJV
• 1 Corinthians 14:33For God is not the author of confusion , but of peace, as in all churches of the saints KJV
Signs of Disloyalty
Not True Followers
John 2:24But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, 25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.KJV
· Just because they are following you does not mean they believe in youand your mission/vision.
o Remember – a camaflouged hunter follows his prey
• There are those that only try to get close to you in order to gain confidence and find a weakness.
• Some follow closely to the leader just to be near the one that is in charge to make them feel powerful, to get “inside information’
• Just because they are following you does not mean they believe in where you are going, they may be seeking a weakness or a time to rebel.
John 7:3His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. 4 For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world. 5 For neither did his brethren believe in him. KJV
• There seemed to be encouragement from those who were his brethren, but later in the same passage we see that they did not believe in Him
Full Of Excuses
Proverbs 25:19Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint. KJV
• Watch for those in leadership who readily use one excuse after another to not minister
• Family trouble
• Not feeling well
• Not rested well due to personal life
• Things can happen in personal lives, and things often DO happen, but ministry must also happen. In our weakness we must remember that God is still strong
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. KJV
Still Holding On To The World
2 Timothy 4:10For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. KJV
• Whilenone of us in leadership are perfect, at some point there must come a time of marked maturity, a growth AWAY from things of the world and TOWARDS the things of God
• Matthew 6:33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. KJV
Those That Can Do It Better
• A person in leadership is not always there because they are the bestat what they are doing, or even good at it, they are there because that is where God has set them.
• 1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church KJV
• We often look at those in leadership and think “I could do better” or maybe someone else should just take their place. We must remember that Good sees things differentlythan we do.
• Esther 4:14For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? KJV
Still Wounded
• There are those that move from one ministry to another without the release of God and carry with them hurts and wounds from the past
• 2 Samuel 13:22for Absalom hated Amnon, because he had forced his sister Tamar. KJV
• Wounded people wound people!
• Repeat this after me out loud . . . Wounded people wound people!
High And Mighty/Not My Job
• Certain ministries are beneath me
• some will refuse to work on certain projects for lack of glory and prestige. If a leader does not maintain a servants heartin all that he or she does, their capacity to lead is diminished.
• Luke 22:27but I am among you as he that serveth. KJV
• Gym trash bag/bathroom story
• Philippians 2:14Do all things without murmurings and disputings: KJV
• Follow wellto be followed well
• 1 Corinthians 11:1Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. KJV
Unbalanced Home
• 1 Timothy 3:4One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) KJV
• It is important to understand balance. Kids aren’t perfect, that is not what this passage is about. It IS about respect, honor and a home that is patterned after The Word of God.
• Kids being kids is different than kids vandalizing the school and dealing drugs
• Husband/wife teams that both have strong opinions can do so with respect and honor, both publicly and privately
• Families must respect each other and bring honor to God and His house if they are to lead
Unfaithful In Another’s Work
• Luke 16:12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own? KJV
• Joseph–was a great leader. Much of his life was spent, literally, making another mans dreams come true. In that process God made Josephs dreams come true!
• I once received a phone call in the middle of the night . . .a man who I barely knew was calling me to see if I had a copy of a sermon on tape that his pastor needed. I had the copy. The man drove for almost two hours, in the middle of the night, to get the tape and then two hours back and then fulfilled his ministry duties to his pastor the following day. This man had a servants heart! He is now pastoring a growing Church and teaching others to serve as he himself served!
Refuses To Tithe/Give Offerings
• Why should someone benefit from or lead in the Church and not support it?
• All Christians are called to tithe
• All IPHC ministers are requiredto tithe
• Malachi 3:8Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
Leaders Who Approve Of Wrong Decisions
• 1 Kings 1:7 And he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with Abiathar the priest: and they following Adonijah helped him. KJV
• Joab approved of Adonijah’s rebellious ideas. This was because Joab himself was a rebel. He had exhibited an independentspirit throughout the life and ministry of King David
• Watch what your team approves of
Speaks Ill Of Others
• 1 Timothy 3:11not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. KJV
• the word slander in the NT is translated from the Greek word diablos, which means devil or false accuser
• A compliment at the detrimentof another is not a compliment
• Boy – you sure preach better than so and so, he just goes too long, etc
• You sure have a greater anointing than our last song leader . . .
• Luke 6:45A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh KJV
Why They Follow
I believe people will follow you for one of three reasons . . .
· Because they must. . .
o They are in a position of being paid or ordered to follow you. They may even be mildly curious about where you are heading. There is no relationship or loyalty here, this person is only here for what they can get for themselves
o John 6:64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. KJV
o They are bound to you because of obligation
§ Financially
§ To family
§ Fear
§ They “inherited” you but did not choose you
· Just because you won a vote does not mean all voted for you. Just because they voted for you does not necessarily mean they will follow you.
· Because they want to. . .
o This is the preson who has come to like and even respect you. Loyalty is being built, but may not last and may not be deep enough to withstand strong trials
o John 6:65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. KJV
· Because they NEEDto . . .
o This is the place leaders should desire to be
o Here is respect. Here is loyalty. Here is wisdom. This person realizes they are in God’s will being near you and the relationship yields something found no other place. They may not understand or even like what is going on, but they know they must be here because they are walking in destiny. Peter knew he would not be able to get what he was getting from Christ from any other source . . .
o John 6:67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life .69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.KJV
§ No other person or leader in his life could get Peter what he was getting from following Christ. He followed because he was a better person when he was around Christ, because his destiny was entwined with Christs.
Dealing With Judas
Why?
· Why do you think Judas betrayed The Lord?
· Do you think he was ever a trustworthy person?
· Why do you think The Lord allowed Judas into the fellowship of the disciples?
Not If – But When
• It doesn’t’t matter what leadership style we have . . .it doesn’t’t matter what type of leadership principles we are using. We are not greater than Jesus. If Jesus had a Judas . . .we will too!
• Matthew 18:7 Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! KJV
A Trusted Friend
• Psalms 41:9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. KJV
• Job 19:19 All my inward friends abhorred me: and they whom I loved are turned against meKJV
• Psalms 55:20 He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant. 21 The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords. KJV
• Many ministers experience personal betrayaland never recover. Decades later and often while leading thriving ministries deep wounds still exist which keep staff and peers at arms length. Remember . . .
• Matthew 6:15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. KJV
• Do not allow anothers actions, whether real or perceived, to hinder your walk with God and your effectiveness in leadership!
• Luke 23:34Then said Jesus, Father, forgive themKJV
Anticipate Betrayal
Acts 20:29For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. KJV
• Anticipate rebellion and create a system that will not collapse in the event of betrayal
• This does not mean that you do not allow people to get close to you
• This does not mean that you do it all yourself and do not trust others
• This means that life goes on, people will be people and we love others as Christ loved us, none of us are perfect
How Does It Happen?
• How did Judas fall? What circumstances brought about the point where “Satan entered into him?” (John 13:27) These were a close knit group. They traveled together, they ate together, they lived together.
• Could it be?
• That Judas was the odd man out? He never felt like he belonged to the team? All the other disciples were from Galilee, but Judas Iscariotwas a man from Kerioth. That is what Iscariot means, inhabitant Kerioth.
• Sometimes when you are the exceptionin a group, you may tend to see things differently than the rest of the group
• Sometimes our perceptionscause us to “back away”
• Don’t allow circumstancesto dictate perceptions
• Walk and see in the Spirit
• Maybe the ministry did not turn out to be what Judas thought it would be, this ministry turned out to be more work and less glory than one might have imagined
• Usher- John 6:10And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. KJV
• Waiter - John 6:11And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. KJV
• Running errands- Matthew 21:1 then sent Jesus two disciplesKJV
• Scavenger - John 6:12When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. KJV
• Perhaps over time Judas became too familiar with Jesus, the man.
• Sometimes we are around someone in leadership so long that we forget our place, and theirs.
• Psalms 41:9Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me. KJV
• Consider lest we forget that we are to remain true to the “high calling” that is higher than friendship.
• Sometimes a minister must “shift gears” and go from being an informal setting to that of being a minister with the change of a conversation topic. Always yield to the higher calling
• Philippians 3:14I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. KJV
How To Leave
Godly Resignation
• How many people do you know that remain in one ministry for a lifetime?
• Chances are at some point you will resign and move to another ministry or another Church.
• When, less likely if, this happens, do so with honor.
• Glorify God in your departure as you did with your arrival and ministry.
• When you leave is not the time to unload all you have been holding back and blast those who you can
• If you aim into a crowd with a shot gun – you will hit more than a couple of people
• Don’t say from the pulpit or public platform what needs to be said in a private meeting of two or three people
Reasons To Leave
• When instructionscome from the Lord to do so
• Often The Lord is moving a person and as their burden shifts, conflict may develop. Those around a person need to be aware of God is transitioning them, to pray for them and assist in making that transition as smooth and peaceful as it can be.
• When a burdenshifts
• Do not allow that to foster hard feelings.
• If God is moving you, that is the only excuse you need. Don’t grow hard towards your current position and decide to “come against” those there and allow that as an excuse to leave.
• You may have less grace for people and circumstances than you have had in the past
• When there is a major doctrinal deviationin the ministry
• If at some point your views/beliefs/vision change from that of the ministry you have been a part of and you are not able to reconcile those changes, it may be time to leave
• When there is significant and chronic moraldeviation
• Make sure you hear from God on leaving under these circumstances
• Make sure you hear from God on leaving under ANYcircumstances!
Leave With Honor
• The way you leave can leave a more lasting impressionthat what you have done!
• Ministers may spend years building a ministry only to tear it to the ground in one final sermon because of a few people they are angry with.
• Chance are, if you are leaving because of moral issues or are no longer on board with the vision of the leadership, not everyone in the Church will need to know that. Don’t stir up questions about your leaving. Leave well.
• Leave well and behonoredor don’t leave well and that may followyou into your next position.
How To Leave
• Give ample notice
• Start with your immediate leader which will likely be the pastor.
• Work out with your leader an exit strategy and a time line of when others will be made aware of your plans of change
• Resignation should be in a written, signed document
• NOT via a text, email or phone call
• Resignation should be given to the person who hired you unless otherwise directed
• Not the board
• Not the congregation
• Not your peers
• Resignation should never be a surprise move
• Even in instances of breakdown of morality, there will still be those who could be hurt by your departure. Be a ministerof peace and goodwill, not a sower of strife and discord
• The person who hired you should be the first, not the second or last to know of your resignation
• Resign alone
• Resignation is not the time to begin a proselyting ministry
• Just because God has called you to leave does not mean He has called others to leave
• Ministries built in this way are “houses built on the sand” and WHEN, not IF the storm comes, very few will stand.
• Avoid confusion
• Do not try to win the hearts of those around you before you leave, people will not understand what is happening, or why.
• Ezekiel 34:18Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet? KJV
• Many want to make a scene, and to be heard and vindicated as they leave or after they have done so. This is a wrong action.
• Some ministers simply disappear after they leave because they bring upon themselves a curse from the manner in which they leave.
• Genesis 31:20 And Jacob stole away unawares to Laban the Syrian, in that he told him not that he fled. 21 So he fled with all that he had; and he rose up, and passed over the river, and set his face toward the mount Gilead. 22 And it was told Laban on the third day that Jacob was fled. KJV
• Just the grace of God saved Jacob from wrath about his awful departure. Just because Laban was not honest, gave Jacob no reason to follow suit, we are not to render evil for evil
• Genesis 31:29It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt: but the God of your father spake unto me yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad. KJV
• Be grateful
• Proverbs 17:13Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house. KJV
• There was a reason you joined this ministry in the first place, be thankful for what you have learned in that time to now
The Right Way
• Exodus 4:18And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father in law, and said unto him, Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which are in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive. And Jethro said to Moses, Go in peace. KJV
• After leaving the right way, when a later encounter happened between Jethro and Moses, there was help from Jethro. His leaving the right way was followed, years later, by blessings
• Exodus 18:7And Moses went out to meet his father in law, and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent.KJ
• Not only did Jethro offer advice – but Moses took his advice – there was still mutual loyalty and respect between two great men/leaders
• Exodus 18:18Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone. 19 Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to Godward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God: KJV
•
Choosing Leaders And Friends
Joseph Mattera
Charisma Magazine
05.26.15
Seven Things That Show How and Why Jesus Chose His Friends
• John 15:15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. KJV
• Servants–NT:1401 doulos (doo'-los); from NT:1210; a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency):KJV - bond(-man), servant
• NT:1210: deo (deh'-o); a primary verb; to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):KJV - bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind. See also NT:1163, NT:1189
• Friends- philosNT:5384 philos (fee'-los); properly, dear, i.e. a friend; actively, fond, i.e. friendly (still as a noun, an associate, neighbor, etc.): KJV - friend
He Prayed About It
• Luke 6:12-13 Andit came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.13 And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles; KJV
• In Luke 6:12-13Jesus prayed all night before He chose the twelve closest people to Him. This shows His choice of a friend was not haphazard; neither should ours be.
His Friends Lived Lives Obedient To God
• There are many people I would like to consistently hang out with. But when it comes to the kingdom there is more to it than that. I have to ask myself if I am called to build with someone before I make a long-term commitment to him or her. The reason is obvious: A person's destiny is often determined by those closest to them in regards to quality time spent, mutual goals and common purpose. You are whom you choose to "hang with" the most.
Jesus Chose His Friends To Be With Him In Order To Send Them Out
• Mark 3:14-15 And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,15 And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils KJV
• Mark 3:14 teaches that the primary expectation Jesus had at first with those He chose as friends was to spend time together.
• They had to learn to "do life" together, not just Bible studies and attend synagogue.
• However, the ultimate result of their proximity to Him was to be sent out to preach. After all, how could they proclaim a Jesus they did not know and how could they know Him unless they spent quality time with Him?
• No one should be quick to call someone a friend before they have spent much quality time with them and know them personally.
Jesus Chose Friends He Could Share His Heart With
• John 15:15 for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.KJV
• Sometimes those in leadership and in The Body of Christ share their hearts and dreams with the wrong people. Not everyone that loves you has the capacity to share your vision. Well meaning people that love you can attempt to redirect your heart and vision out of genuine concern for you – choose confidants wisely.
• John 15:15 teaches us that Jesus shared His heart with His friends who understood Him.
• In Matthew 13:11 Jesus told His friends "To you it has been given to understand the secrets of the kingdom of heaven but to them (non-friends) it has not been given." If someone cannot understand your heart or believe in your vision it will be difficult for them to be a true kingdom friend.
• Just because another person is in the same level of leadership as you are, or even above you, does not mean that God has shown them the vision He has for your life. God is not the only One who places people in your life – the enemy will plant those in our path to distract and discourage us and sometimes they come as “an angel of light”
Jesus Proactively Chose His Friends
• John 15:16 teaches us (in the context of His choosing friends) that people did not choose Him but vice versa. Although this passage is also referring to salvation, it also shows that His methodology for choosing friends was proactive (not reactive) based on their calling to build with Him. Consequently, we should determine in our hearts who we should pursue in a friendship
• Don't merely pick those who desire to be close to you; proactively choose people based on a leading of the Lord
• Not everyone who wanted to be close to Jesus were given that access; out of the multitudes He only had an inner circle of three, then 12, and then 70.
Jesus Friends Received His Hard Sayings
• In John 6:66 many of His disciples left Him because they could not receive the meat of the Word!
• His true friends were thus separated from those who were merely temporary acquaintances
• Your true friends will stand by you even when God gives you a hard saying and/or call to do something that is not understood by many other people.
Jesus Friends Were Those Who Stood By Him In Trials
• Luke 22:28 Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. KJV
• His closest friends were those who stuck it out with Him during His earthly trials.
• God will often allow you to go through a severe personal or ministerial trial to test those around you to demonstrate who your real friends are.
• You can only build with those who are faithful to you during difficult times and not only when things are going well.
People You Can’t Help
Ten Unfaithful Character Traits
Those Who Do Not Take Responsibility For Themselves
• The first step toward self-improvement is to remove all excuses for mediocrity or failure. Those that continually blame other people for their failures will never go to the next level.
• Those who complain about spouses, the income level of their congregations, the lack of staff etc. will fail to see challenges presented in those opportunities to rise above and instead use them as excuses for failure.
• 1 Corinthians 11:28But let a man examine himself KJV
Those Who Do Not Have A Heart To Seek God
• The Bible teaches us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10).
• Those who do not respect God enough to seek Him and study His word so they can make wise decisions in life are violating Scripture (Joshua 1:8-9) and cannot be helped either by myself or any other leader or minister.
• Those who do not obey what God requires for success have decided to try to be successful in life without God’s blessings!
Those Who Create Distance So They Are Not Accountable
• There are certain people who only let others get so close before cutting off the relationship. Many go from one church to the next because they fear becoming too close to a leader who will hold them accountable.
• Often, some will attempt to attend a megachurch where they will be able to hear the word of God in the context of a large crowd so that no one will really know who they are.
• Whether it is fear or rebellion, those who live like this have put a low ceiling on their lives and will not grow past the infant stage concerning their potential in life.
Those Who Insist On Having A Negative Outlook On Life
• Remember the old testimony services, who did they praise? Some of those old timers were just barely hanging on, let alone walking in victorious relationship with Christ!
• Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. KJV
• Jesus told people they would receive as they believed –
• Matthew 8:13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour. KJV
• What a person thinks in his heart – he actually is!
• Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee. KJV
Those Who Refuse To Have A Vision For Their Future
• Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision , the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. KJV
• It has been said that if you do not know where you are going, you will not know when you get there.
• If you don’t know where you are going, I cannot help you get there
Those Who Live In Self Deception
• There are many people who are living lives of denial regarding their relationships with God and their families and all things regarding their inner and outer lives.
• My marriage is fine
• I don’t have a problem
• We are “just friends”
• I’m trying to help so and so
• The sad thing is that denial is the first step to outright deception, in which a person concocts an alternate, false reality that continually feeds their mind and emotions the things they want to hear about themselves and their key relationships. This insulates them from the word of the Lord, from others and the Holy Spirit.
• Those who live in a lie often fail to see the “truth” as well as understand “The Truth”
• Cut and dry lines become blurry and boundaries are skewed and often moved farther away from truth and godliness
• Pornography, affairs, white lies, justification for feelings and emotions – the issues can cause us to live in a “distorted reality” where Truth no longer reigns
Those Who Do Not Want To Pay The Price For Success
• There are many in the church that want the perks of success but don’t want to pay the price for success.
• Luke 14:26-30 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. KJV
Those Whose Primary Agenda Is Self Oriented And Not Kingdom Motivated
• There are some people whose only agenda in life is to advance their own agenda.
• Isaiah 14:13-15 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. KJV
• Matthew 7:21-27 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of itKJV
Those Who Refuse To Keep Covenant
• I have been with very talented individuals with great calling on their lives that I had to back away from because they did not know how to remain faithful to their obligations or because they broke confidence by continually talking behind other people’s backs
• Psalms 15:3 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. KJV
• Proverbs 23:77 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he KJV
Those Who Lack Transparency, Integrity And Humility
• The Bible teaches us to walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7). It also teaches us to confess our faults to one another and pray for one another that we may be healed (James 5:16).
• Those that do not admit their faults and confess their sins cannot have the kind of relationship with a mentor suitable for personal growth.
• It is important for me to have a transparent relationship with those I am mentoring since a person who conceals their sins from me is not giving me a chance to fully speak into their life and help them in their areas of weakness. Those who want to progress in their spiritual formation must learn to practice the spiritual discipline of confession of sin (Proverbs 28:13)
• Proverbs 28:13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy KJV
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