SCRIPTURE: Josh. 3-6; 1 Cor. 4
1 Corinthians 4:1-4 Don’t imagine us leaders to be something we aren’t. We are servants of Christ, not his masters. We are guides into God’s most sublime secrets, not security guards posted to protect them. The requirements for a good guide are reliability and accurate knowledge. It matters very little to me what you think of me, even less where I rank in popular opinion. I don’t even rank myself. Comparisons in these matters are pointless. I’m not aware of anything that would disqualify me from being a good guide for you, but that doesn’t mean much. The Master makes that judgment.
OBSERVATION: “I’m not aware of anything that would disqualify me from being a good guide for you, but that doesn’t mean much. The Master makes that judgment.” This passage in particular stands out among the other verses. It helps me to see that my worth and esteem are not measured by the people around me or even my own opinion of myself. My soundness as a leader is all up to Jesus and the measure that he takes of me in my discipleship.
Paul isn’t defending himself in some understated pre-psychological mind game. He’s setting the stage for the way he is going to interact with the people. He makes it clear that he isn’t there to guard the faith, but neither is he going to pander. Clear accurate guidance into the mysteries of Christ’s sacrifice, the secrets of more excellent living–these are the things that make for Paul’s definition of leadership.
APPLICATION: Don’t tell people what to do. Invite them into the journey of faith and learning. Teach them when they express an interest in learning. Encourage them towards the next challenge. Comfort them when their efforts fall short. Then, dust them off and send them back towards the goal.
PRAYER: God, remind me that I’m not the Shepherd. At best, I’m just the lead sheep. And on the days when I’m not out in front leading, help me to be a good follower behind the ones that you send to guide me. Amen.
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