ABC's of Biblical Leadership (Biblical Leaders are Necessary)

Biblical Leaders are Necessary

When I first started preaching my Bishop shared with me a lesson taught by Dr. I.V. Hilliard who said,

“Until you make an uncommon contribution in the earth, your existence is unnecessary.” Dr. I.V. Hilliard

Some of you might disagree with that statement but come, let’s reason together.

Since it’s football season, I want you to consider what it takes to win games. The defense has to hold the opposing team’s offense to less points while the offense must score more points than their competitor.

It is clear, that though a team may have a great offensive line, that a solid QB is necessary in order to score points. But what good is a great QB if the receivers cannot catch what he’s throwing to them? And no offense is complete without a strong RB.

In professional football, every player is great. To get to that level, you must have extraordinary strength, agility, reflexes, and a great capacity for athletic intelligence. Regardless of your personal opinion, these men you see on the field, or on your tv this weekend — all of them fit the description.

What this means then, is that one of two things must happen that determines wins or losses. To lose

One or more players must play at less than their full potential

as in, missing blocking assignments, dropping catchable balls, missing tackles, and causing penalties. And to win,

2. One or more players must contribute something to the team that goes above and beyond what is expected.

It’s when a play is designed to gain two yards and the RB runs 20 instead. It’s the interception run back for a touchdown. It’s the audible that prevented a sack or the stripped ball that caused a turnover.

When all players are on the same level, someone must do something extraordinary in order to pull off a win. It is their uncommon contribution that makes them a valued, necessary part of the team. Understand that when one man scores, the points belong to the entire team.

And so it is with the world we live in. It is not enough for the teacher to present the material. The best teachers teach the students. It is not enough to conceive a child. Great parents raise them right. It is not enough to simply attend church. The best of us serve while there, in the giving of our time, talents, and treasure.

And the greatest of us are always looking for ways to go above and beyond. The greatest of us know that

Until we make an uncommon contribution in the earth, our existence is unnecessary.

So in all that we do, we do it for the glory of God and for the good of His people.

At least we should. But we live in an imperfect world with imperfect people. And this world has been imperfect for a very long time. In fact, it’s been nearly 2000 years since the Apostle Paul wrote about the very thing we are talking about today.

For context, Paul is writing this letter, or perhaps he’s speaking and his protege Timothy is writing. However it’s penned, it is done so from prison. Paul is on house arrest for preaching Christ. It’s not simply that he was preaching Christ but more so that he has been accused of heralding for a new king other than The Roman Emperor, Caesar. And that accusation is punishable by death.

So in a very extreme way, Paul is taking one for the team. And here’s what he had to say about that.

Philippians 1:15–27 NIV

15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me. 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel

And on that note, let me share with you the power of the gospel of Christ. The gospel, or good news of Christ is that at one point, we were all mediocre, but because Jesus died for our sins and rose again with all power in his hands, he has delegated that same power and authority to us who believe.

That means we have power over sin, power over bad habits and addiction.

We have the power to become sons and daughters of the Most High God.

We have power to make uncommon contributions in our homes, churches, communities and even the nations.

Perhaps you’ll never throw a touchdown that wins you a ring in the NFL, but today you can start being a champion at home to your spouse and children by keeping your promises to them. Don’t just be a father, be a dad. Don’t just be a child, strive to be the favorite. Don’t just be a spouse, be the lover your husband, your wife doesn’t want to be without.

Don’t just be an employee, work in a way that brings honor to the name of Christ. Don’t just be a neighbor or a friend. Be the friend that draws people closer to Jesus. There is no greater contribution to this earth than that of a person who leads others to Christ.

Biblical leadership is necessary. Isn’t it amazing that God chose you? If you’re still here, that means God has something for you to do. Be necessary. Make a difference for the Kingdom of Heaven and leave a legacy your family can be proud of.

Call for the MAG7. These people need your help. Talk to any of them to learn how you can make an uncommon contribution to this ministry, this year.