The Law of Reproduction Part 13

Paul Trains Leaders-1 Thessalonians 1:5-8

Because Paul was forced to leave Thessalonica shortly after he planted a church there, he developed many of its leaders through the mail. The apostle wrote 1 and 2 Thessalonians to disciple and train those who had recently chosen to follow Christ. Paul tried to work himself out of a job through this training. The apostle reminds us how good training works:

1. Training involves not only words, but also demonstration (v. 5).
2. Training transforms others when done with conviction (v. 5).
3. Training is remembered when the life of the trainer supports the message (v. 5).
4. Training is incarnated when the follower imitates the teacher (v. 6).
5. Training is relevant when done in the midst of problems (v. 6).
6. Training is complete when the trainee becomes a trainer (vv. 7, 8).
7. Training has been reproduced when the original trainer has no need to say more (v. 8).

Timothy to Equip Elders-1 Timothy 5:17-22

Leaders are crucial to any organization. Mistakes made at the leadership level impact everyone. As the senior pastor, Timothy was to identify, prepare, and affirm his church leaders. He was to honor those who served well (1 Tim. 5:17,18), correct those in error (5:19-21), and prepare those who were called, patiently and carefully (5:22). Nothing should be done in haste.

Consider the steps Paul endorsed concerning the establishment of leaders in the church:

1. Identification: Identify those with character, gifts, and influence.
2. Separation: Set them apart for the work of their calling.
3. Preparation: Equip them with the tools and experiences they need.
4. Recognition: Allow the church to affirm their calling.
5. Ordination: Lay hands on them and ordain them for the work.

Join me next time for The Law of Reproduction Part 14