2021 0214 A Noble Task
Notes
Transcript
Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.
Trustworthy Saying
a trustworthy saying in the most trustworthy book of all time
this grabs your attention
so it should for you do not know where God will take you on your walk with Jesus
Aspiration
aspires has the meaning of setting your heart on it, to stretch out and do it
this heart desire has to implanted by the Holy Spirit
So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers,
yet we must take on this purpose with determination and dedication
not all will become pastors yet we should all prepare for a higher calling as we mature in Christ
Noble Task
Paul recognizes the importance of an overseer
it is a noble task, one above ordinary tasks
a word of caution - it is a noble task but not one that is superior
all tasks, skills and talents come from the Lord
and the Lord is the one who gives and appoints such tasks
there is no room for human boasting or pride of any sort
Overseer
health and function of a fellowship depends on the quality of the pastoral oversight
today terms are pastor, minister, Father
we have several terms for the oversight -
bishop or overseer (episkopos Greek origin), indicating the function of the office
elder (presbyteros Jewish origin), indicating the dignity of the office
deacon (diakonas), indicating one who serves the people and also as an assistant to the overseer
bottom line - we are all called to serve one another, it is just the degree of responsibility that varies
we have a duty to our family and home,
a responsibility to our spiritual family, the church
a responsibility to the world, that outside of the Kingdom
an overseer must first of all be a good person across the board
Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Influence
* the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behaviour of someone or something
we are messengers of the gospel of peace - that is influence
Integrity
* the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
the level of our integrity will directly determine what influence we have
Ten Virtues
Faithful in Marriage
Self Control
Hospitality
Teaching Ability
Drinking Habit
Gentleness
Attitude to Money
Management of Family
Spiritual Maturity
Reputation