Christian Leaders

Hebrews 13:7, 17

Introduction

1.      Paul speaks of a man who aspires to be a bishop in the church – 1 Tim 3:1

2.      There ought to be a desire in the heart of every Christian to be a leader of others, leading them to Christ, leading Christians to greater service  

Discussion – Christian Leadership

1.       Noted for their example in teaching

a.       The warning against being “carried away by varied and strange teachings” – vs 9  

b.      Needed: an understanding of the “elementary teaching” 6:1-2  

c.       Need to know why they believe as they do  

2.      Noted for their example in life

a.       Paul’s instructions to Timothy – 1 Tim 4:12; 2 Tim 2:24-25  

b.      Matt 5:14  

3.      Noted for their example in faith

a.       Faith determines how one will act in a crisis – consider Abraham in Gen 22  

b.      Faith is based on the word of God  

c.       Faith carries a willingness to trust others with responsibilities  

Conclusion

1.       The writer speaks of leaders in the plural – “those” “leaders” it was never God’s intention that the church have a “single” leader

2.      As Christians, we need to honor and respect those who try to lead

3.      As Christians, we need to be constantly preparing ourselves to lead others in a positive way