Go Ye Therefore

The Law of Solid Ground Part 14
 
How Leaders Gain Trust-Galatians 2:1-10
 
It seems Paul constantly had to defend his leadership with some churches. He felt compelled to proclaim his trustworthiness with the churches in both Corinth and  Galatia. He earned their trust by . . .
1. Investing his time in learning from God (v. 1).
2. Associating with a trusted leader (v. 1).
3. Submitting to respected leaders and sharing his journey (v. 2).
4. Asserting that even the leaders didn’t correct his team (vv. 3, 6).
5. Standing up to those who opposed God’s truth (vv. 4, 5).
6. Putting no confidence in people’s infallibility, but trusting in God (v. 6).
7. Affirming that even the leaders fully endorse him (vv. 7-9).
8. Cooperating with the present leaders and honoring their request (v. 10).
 
Paul Built Respect-1 Thessalonians 4:11, 12
 
If the Thessalonians were to win their city for Christ, they would have to commit themselves to excellence. They needed to lead a peaceful life, pay their bills, and work with integrity. When we gain the respect of others by leading our own lives well, we gain the opportunity to lead others.
 
Timothy Must Earn Trust-1 Timothy 4:1-16
 
Every spiritual leader faces at least two important duties. First, they must confront those who fall away from the faith (1 Tim. 4:1-6). Second, they must discipline themselves for godliness (4:7-16). When leaders fulfill these two duties, they practice the Law of Solid Ground and earn the trust of others.
 
Join me next time for The Law of Solid Ground Part 15.