Special Called Deacon's Meeting

Prayer

Scriptures

Dearly beloved, Scriptures address the matter we have before us this evening. This is a teaching moment, a challenge to all of us that are called vocationally to serve the church. Myself, Jackie and Ron for that matter.

Work as to the Lord

Colossians 3:23–24 “23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

1 Corinthians 10:31 “31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

Ephesians 6:7 “7 with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men,”

Being Approved and Diligent in Ministry

2 Timothy 2:15 “15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

1 Corinthians 4:2 “2 Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.”

Setting an Example in Work Ethic and Conduct

Titus 2:7–8 “7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 “12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.”

Avoid Laziness and Being Accountable

Proverbs 18:9 “9 He who is slothful in his work Is a brother to him who is a great destroyer.”

Ecclesiastes 9:10 “10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”

2 Thessalonians 3:10–12 “10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12 Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread.”

These text are you consideration as we discuss this matter:

Has nothing to do with personalities, liking Michael & Barbara

Has nothing to do with our love of this family. You can not help but love them.

This is not about Capability or their gifts. They ave more than adequate gifts to perform the job.

This discussion is related to the vocational calling and what was and is expected.

Matters Discussed around the hiring.

Sunday Morning Service-Blended Service-hymns and contemporary music

Specials each Sunday. Could repeat Specials every 4-6 weeks.

We have 4 of us that are in Choir and have added insight and I would appreciate your thoughts and comments.

-When hired, “Barbara is crucial and a part of the hiring. She is integral to what I do.”

Three Issues I have as Pastor

Not Capability but the ability or willingness to make it work. I have suggested alternative methodologies and He will not execute.

Canned Music

Pre-recording Barbara playing when she is out.

No Accountability-never lets me know the changes. Nor, provides any accountability for their actions.

Poor Example as leaders of the church. Lack of Engagement. They do not tithe. They do not even tithe on the monies they receive from Mt. Zion let alone the monies they receive outside the church. I’ve never seen Michael and Barbara bring something to a fellowship meal. We have seen Barbara prepare a gift for the Choir at Christmas and that is appreciated. Our Big events you do not find them there.

-Barbara was to play for the Community Fair. Barbara should have been integral in the Valentine’s Banquets.

Leaders see this example and they will tend to get sloppy when they see this is accepted in every fashion of ministry. I already seeing it happening at some levels. It becomes a cancer to the body.

Let’s Drill it Down.

-we practice specials. They are never sung or in the Order of Service for Sunday. WE have had possibly one full out practice since Christmas. We are 6 weeks from Easter. We were introduced to a musical they have done in the past. It is old. When it came out it was on Cassette. They picked a music they know and we do not have a way to listen to the music because it is out of print.