How leaders can grow in evangelistic grace

John the Baptist was “sent to bear witness that all might believe” – and we all believe in Christ today because of his effective witness. What can we learn form him?

Look at this short inspirational video by Andre Kruger on growing in the evangelistic anointing. For more on his teachings and to obtain a copy of his book Increasing Heaven’s Flow in 40 days go to www.heavensflow.org

https://youtu.be/BT1q22eLDto

Scripture

John 1:6-8 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.

John 1:23  He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.“ (cf Isa 40:3-5)

John 1:29-37

29  The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30  This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ 31  I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32  And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. 33  I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ 34  And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” 35  The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, 36  and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” 37  The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus.

Observations and Revelation

Context: Theses sections of Scripture introduce and record the core ministry of John the Baptist.  

1. In short, what was the main ministry of John the Baptist? [John 1:23 and 31]
2. What does it mean “to [be a] witness”? [hint: to a journalist, or to a court of law]
3. John was a few months older that his cousin Jesus. So what do you think he meant when he said of Jesus: “He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me”? (verse30) [hint: you might want to read John 3:26-30 for some context]
4. What do you understand under these four phrases that introduce the ministry of John the Baptist (verses 6-8)?

• “sent from God”
• “not The Light”
• “sent to bear witness”
• “that all through him might believe”

5. What was the immediate response to John’s witness of Jesus?

 

Personal Reflection and Application

John the Baptist had the privileged to witness the Spirit of God descend on the Jesus and announce to everyone in Israel that This Man is the Promised Messiah – that all might trust and believe in Him for their salvation.

1. John the Baptist witnessed and two of his own disciples followed Jesus immediately. To whom have you witnessed recently that resulted in their belief and following of Jesus?
2. Make bullet points about your salvation testimony (or another significant thing the Lord has done in your life) and then evaluate your story in the light of John the Baptist’s effective witness of Jesus:

“sent from God” – knowing that you are commissioned by Jesus

“not The Light” – witnessing in such a way to not take the glory that belongs to Jesus

“sent to bear witness” – to simply tell of what you have seen and experienced

“that all through him might believe” ­– to witness in such a way that people will believe

3. Pray for boldness to be an effective witness of Jesus Christ’s work in your life. Prayerfully consider whom you will witness to in the next 3 days “that they might believe”. [You might want to first share your testimony above with a Christian friend, and ask for his or her input].

 

 

How leaders can grow in teaching grace

Leaders lead people into the discovery of the truth – about God, the world, their purpose and themselves.  It is therefore critical for leaders to wait on the Lord for direction and instruction.

Look at this short inspirational video by Andre Kruger on growing in the prophetic anointing. For more on his teachings and to obtain a copy of his book Increasing Heaven’s Flow in 40 days go to www.heavensflow.org

Scripture

Matthew 16:13-21

13  Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” 14  And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15  He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16  Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

17  And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.  18  And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.  19  I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Observations

Context: Caesarea Philippi was located at the base of Mt Hermon, next to a natural spring that gushed from the mountain – a place of pagan worship and rituals.  In the city was a statue with temple of the Greek god Pan (see excavation site below).  The city was rebuilt and renamed in 3BC by Philip II, son of Herod the Great, renamed the city Caesarea Philippi in honour of Caesar Augustus (14AD) and later he pressed his own coins with his face on in 30AD – considered an act of idolatry by the Jews.   Thus, in Jesus’ day this city was renowned for animistic pagan worship at the natural spring, Greek worship of Pan, Roman emperor worship of Caesar and even veneration of Philip himself.   

Current excavation site of Philippi Caesarea with artist rendition of how it probably looked in the days of Jesus. Note the various pagan temples – especially the temple of Pan at the mouth of the cave – the source of ancient the Jordan River.

The Greek god Pan – half-man, half-goat, playing the flute. Several images and inscriptions of this god was found in Philippi Caesarea.

 

1. Considering the background knowledge of the city mentioned above, what depth does it add to Jesus posing the question of his identity in this specific city?
2. What did Jesus do that lead to Peter’s revelation of Jesus’ identity?
3. Unpack Peter’s confession of Jesus (verse 16) – what do the parts of the confession mean?
4. What did Jesus say about the source of Peter’s revelation?
5. Jesus said that “on this rock I will build my church”. What does that “rock” refer to? [hint: ‘Peter’ means little stone or small rock, so it does not refer to Peter himself, but it is a clever play of words!]
6. Directly after Peter’s confession of Jesus, Jesus said things to Peter (verse 18-19). What did Jesus do with these sayings? What can we learn from that? [hint: identity]

Personal reflection and application:

While walking with his disciples Jesus was an anointed and skillful teacher who knew that true revelation and conviction is deep and personal revelation that comes from the Father, and therefore requires reflection and discovery – and the anointing of the Holy Spirit.  For that reason Jesus skillfully used questions, parables, illustrations and his surroundings in his teachings – relying and creating space for the Holy Spirit to reveal truth and convict hearts.

1. In which ways have you experienced the revelation and conviction of the Holy Spirit (a) when you listened to a message, (b) when you did Bible Study alone, and (c) when you taught someone else. Write down what you discovered.
2. How do you tend to teach or explain things? Are you prone to state and explain everything you know, or are you prone to ask leading questions or use illustrations?
3. In the study How do leaders grow in apostolic grace the application involved the preparation of a 10 minutes teaching on the Kingdom of God. Review your teaching in the light of today’s devotional study.  How will you adjust your teaching? Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you into truth!

Payer

Earnestly desire and ask the Lord for help to grow in His anointing to teach and lead people in truth and personal conviction.  Ask for the grace of the teacher!

Note: Images sourced from Wikipedia – public domain.

 

 

How leaders can grow in pastoral grace

Leadership is all about care for the well-being of others expressed through acts of selflessness and kindness to better the state of those in their care.

In this short inspirational video Andre Kruger shares on how leaders can increase the pastoral anointing in their lives. For more on his teachings and obtain a copy of his book Increasing Heaven’s Flow in 40 days go to www.heavensflow.org

Scripture

Matthew 25:31-40

31  “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. 32  Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33  And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. 34  Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35  For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36  I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’

37  Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38  And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39  And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’

40  And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’

Observations and reflections

1. What will Jesus honor the righteous for doing when he returns? List and describe what the Lord specifies in this text. (verses 37-40)
2. How does our Lord view caring deeds of love for people in need in this earth? (verse 40)
3. Why do you think the Lord views these loving deeds to needy people in such a way?
4. Carefully read verse 40 again. How many deeds of love does one need to do before the Lord recognizes and rewards one when he returns? And what does that suggest about the value the places on one person in need?

Personal reflection and application

The Lord loves and values each individual and therefore deeply identifies with the lack, pain and suffering of every person he created.  Therefore the Lord rewards every deed of kindness from compassion shown to each individual person, as if it is shown to him in person.

1. List three acts of kindness you have recently shown to people in need – especially those close to you.  Our Text today promises that the Lord will remember these acts of sincere kindness; how does this truth make you feel?
2. To grow in pastoral grace one simply shows compassion and kindness to people who cross your path, motivated by the truth that the Lord loves that person as he loves you. Consider the following Scripture:

Galatians 6:10 “…as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

• In which ways can you “do good” today – especially those close to you? List 10 practical examples.
• Whom do you know that is sick in bed, alone or feeling down?  What can you do to show care and love for them?
• Whom within your family and Christian fellowship can you show kindness today?
• Whom in your every life can you show kindness today?
• Memorize this Scripture, and mediate on it all day long as you look for opportunities to show the loving care and kindness of our Lord to those you relate to. Pray that the Lord will grace you to show his compassion, kindness and patience so you may represent him well.

How leaders can grow in prophetic grace

Leaders lead people into the future the Lord has prepared.  It is therefore critical for leaders to learn to wait on the Lord for direction and instruction.

Look at this short inspirational video by Andre Kruger on growing in the prophetic anointing. For more on his teachings and obtain a copy of his book Increasing Heaven’s Flow in 40 days go to www.heavensflow.org

Scripture

Context: This book is entitled “the burden of Habakkuk” (1:1; dated about 605-608 BC) and starts off as the prophet unburdens his heart in prayer about the prevailing social injustices he sees. When God answers his prayers becomes a conversation with the Lord.

Habakkuk 2:1-3

1  I will take my stand at my watchpost and station myself on the tower, and look out to see what he will say to me, and what I will answer concerning my complaint. 2  And the LORD answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. 3  For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end–it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay…”

Observations and reflections

1. The prophet uses the military language of “watchpost and station” – what does it suggest of his demeanor as he spends time with the Lord?
2. Rephrase verse one in your own words.
3. What do you think happened between verses 1 and 2?
4. Why would it be necessary for the prophet to withdraw and be alone with the Lord?
5. Note the instructions which the Lord gives Habakkuk before the vision is given – what does He say and why is that important when the Lord reveals something to you?

 

Personal Reflection and Application

During a critical time in Judah’s history (about 605BC) the prophet Habakkuk withdrew to be alone with the Lord, to gain God’s perspective of Judah’s situation, and to ask how he personally, and the nation should respond.

1. Follow Habakkuk’s pattern:

• schedule time alone (perhaps now?);
• unburden your heart to the Lord in prayer;
• wait for Him to answer and record what He says;
• record what you see (vision);
• ask the Lord what you should do with this message;
• declare your trust in the Lord.

(If you feel more comfortable to spend this time of waiting in prayer with a close Christian friend, do so. But to grow in the prophetic anointing, waiting on the Lord in this manner is very important.)

2. Share your experience and what you recorded with a mature Christian friend.

Prayer

Thank the Lord for the times you have heard him speaking to you in various ways.  Then personalize the prayer of young Samuel who prayed as Eli instructed him “Speak, LORD, for your servant hears.” (1 Samuel 3:9)

How leaders can grow in apostolic grace

Supernatural signs confirm the message of the Kingdom of God.  So how does a leader grow in the demonstration of spirit and power?

Look at this short inspirational video by Andre Kruger who has seen tremendous growth in his personal life and congregation in the demonstration of spirit and power. Form more on his teachings regarding this visit his page http://heavensflow.org/

Scriptures

Matthew 4:17-24

17  From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” … 23  And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. 24  So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, epileptics, and paralytics, and he healed them.

Matthew 10:1-8

1  And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction… 5  These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, 6  but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7  And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8  Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay.

Observations and Reflection

Note: Matthew, being a Jew, respectfully chose to use the euphoric phrase “Kingdom of Heaven” where the other evangelists used the phrase “Kingdom of God”.

1. List the similarities between these two portions from the Gospel of Matthew.
2. What was the message preached?
3. To whom did they preach?
4. What accompanied the preaching of this message?
5. What is “the Kingdom of God”? What synonyms could you use for the phrase “Kingdom of God”?
6. Why did these signs follow the pronouncement of the Kingdom of God? [hint: where does sickness, death, leprosy and demonic oppression come from?]
7. What was the purpose of these accompanying signs?

Personal reflection and Application

Jesus and his disciples preached the Good News of the Kingdom of God, calling the Jews to repent of their rebellion and sin and submit to the reign of God – and signs of this good reign of God followed as the blind saw, deaf heard, lame walked, the sick was healed and the oppressed were delivered, even the dead raised! These signs testify of the good and powerful reign of God.

1. Signs and wonders are more commonly observed during evangelic outreaches and gospel crusades. Have you witnessed this before? And why do you think it is so?
2. Considering today’s scripture reading, how would one grow in the apostolic anointing or demonstration of the Spirit and Power? [hint: apostle means ‘sent one, messenger or emissary’]
3. Jesus and his disciples preached ‘the Kingdom of God’ among their own people. Prayerfully prepare a 10minute message on the Kingdom of God and preach it to people you associate with. Then follow up with demonstration of the Kingdom of God by praying for sick or oppressed people. (Consider taking this message to hospitals or prisons in your area).
4. If you have not been on a mission trip in the last year, plan to join one in the next 12 months.

Prayer

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory,

Now and forever. Amen”

 

Leaders need to grow in the grace of teaching

Do you think you can still grow in the grace of a teacher?  Can you lead someone into truth with “gentleness, patience, humility correct those who oppose you”?

Watch this short inspirational session André Kruger explains the need for leaders to grow in the teaching anointing. For more on his teachings on flowing in the grace of God and his

book on the topic go to www.heavensflow.org

https://youtu.be/p3g3o34vpxs

Scripture

2 Timothy 2:14-26

14  Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. 15  Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16  But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. 17  And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18  who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some…

23  But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. 24  And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25  in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26  and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.

Observation and reflection questions

Context: Paul instructs and reminds young Timothy how to teach and manage the big church he oversees in Ephesus. 

1. Read through the verses above and note all the instructions regarding Timothy’s growth in TEACHING the church. Then answer these questions in your own words:
2. What do you understand from the phrase “to not strive about words to no profit”? (verse 14)
3. How does one prepare and grow in the grace of teaching the Word? (verse 15)
4. What is the danger of false or ungrounded teachings? (verse 16-18)
5. How can “profane and idle babblings… increase to more ungodliness”? (verse 18)
6. Can you think of an example of “foolish and ignorant disputes” that generate strife? (verse 23)
7. What are the character qualities of a mature Biblical teacher? (verse 24-25)
8. What is the aim of good Biblical teaching? (verse 25-26)

Personal reflection and application

Young Timothy was commissioned to oversee the big, flourishing church in Ephesus – a city renowned for its study and philosophy. Some strange doctrines were taught in the church therefore Paul exhorted the young pastor to “study and show himself tested”, able to handle the word of God without skillfully and shame. Timothy had to grow in the grace of teaching.

1. In which area(s) of doctrine do you feel skillful and prepared to instruct and correct people?
2. Why? And who “approved” (tested) your doctrine?
3. How did you grow skillful in these doctrines?
4. When conversation centers around spiritual or biblical matters, do you lead with Word of God as you basis? Do you steer conversations to and from the Scriptures?
5. Honestly consider the qualifications of a mature Biblical teacher below and evaluate yourself in light of the Scripture: (TRUE OF ME | SOMEWHAT TRUE OF ME | NOT TRUE OF ME)

• remind people of basic truths
• not strive about technicalities
• diligent study of the Bible
• able to handle the Bible in discipleship and counselling
• shun false teaching and idle babblings
• avoid foolish and ignorant disputes
• not quarrelsome
• gentle to all
• able to teach
• patient in teaching
• in humility correcting those who are in opposition
• praying for people who are deceived

Prayer

Thank God for how you have grown in the knowledge of the truth and the skillfulness of teachings. Then pray through the list above, asking God for grace to grow in the skillfulness and anointing of a teacher.

Leaders need to grow in the pastoral grace

True leaders must lead in loving care, with selflessness nurturing and protecting the people whom God loves – even when it hurts. Leaders need the grace of a shepherd.

In this short inspirational session André Kruger shows why leaders must grow in the pastoral anointing. For more on his teachings on flowing in the grace of God go to www.heavensflow.org

Scripture

1 Timothy 3:1-7

1  The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2  Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3  not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

4  He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5  for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

6  He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7  Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.

Observations and personal reflections

1. What is the first requirement of an overseer (or elder) according to Paul? (verse 1) And what does that imply of Biblical leadership in general?
2. Reflect on the phrase “a noble task”. (verse 1) What do you learn from the role of an elder?
3. In your own words describe the (a) character, (b) competencies and (c) additional requirements of an elder. (verses 2-7)
4. Reflect on verse 4 and 5: what do you learn from the nature of pastoral care in this comparison?

Personal reflection and application

An elder is one who cares for God’s people in the local church, ruling with dignity by example in godly character and mature ministry skills.  But an elder is one who leads and cares for his own household well, thereby showing that he can rule the house of God in a like manner.

1. Do you desire to serve as an elder in your local church? Why, or why not? If so, have you spoken to your local church leadership about this?
2. Could you with confidence say as Paul did “follow me as I follow Christ?” (1 Corinthians 11:1) Why, or why not?
3. (If you are married) Would you say that you “manage your household well, will all dignity keeping your children submissive?” (verse 4)
4. If someone were to live with you and your family for a year and follow your example, would their (a) grow in relationship with Christ and (b) would they grow in respect of you or wane in respect of you?
5. Consider the list below and indicate how the following attributes apply to you (ALWAYS TRUE | SOMETIMES TRUE | ALMOST NEVER TRUE)

• honorable reputation
• discerning
• self-controlled
• hospitable
• able to teach
• not given to over-indulgence
• gentle
• content
• peaceful
• family life in order

4. In which of these attributes of an elder are you currently growing in? Discuss your list with a prayer friend or mature Christian and invite his or her input into your life.

Prayer

Thank God for how you have grown into maturity, and confess your need for his grace in further growth. Ask for help to make your leadership and example within your family a priority.

Leader need to grow in prophetic grace

Leaders must lead people in the will of God, inspire them with hope and encourage them to continue.  Leaders need to grow in the gift of prophecy.

In this short inspiration session André Kruger explains why leaders must grow in the prophetic anointing, and how it functions. For more on his teachings on flowing in the grace of God go to www.heavensflow.org

Scripture

1 Corinthians 14:1-4

1  Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 2  For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. 3  But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 4  He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

Observations

1. What is prophesy?
2. According to this Scripture, what is the requirement to administer the spiritual gifts? (verse 1)
3. Paul says that one should “especially desire [to] prophesy”; what does this imply about the key to function in the gift of prophesy? (verse 1)
4. Why does Paul highlight the pursuit of prophesy above the other spiritual gifts? (verses 2-4)
5. Explain in your own words what prophesy does for the hearers. (verse 3-4)

Reflection and Application

Prophecies are words from the heart of God that gives direction, correction, comfort and encouragement.  God does nothing on earth without sharing heart and plans with people who flow in this gift (Amos 3:7).  These words bring with it grace from God which gives life, hope and strength to the ones who hear.  Leaders must pursue and grow in this gift of grace.

1. What is the most inspirational, uplifting and comforting word of prophesy that you have received from the Lord? How did it affect your emotions and life as a whole?
2. How do you usually hear words of prophesy from the Lord for someone else?
3. When last did you wait on the Lord to share a word of encouragement or direction for someone else?
4. Consider this description of Judas and Silas: “And Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.” (Acts 15:32)
5. At the first available fellowship gathering (either church meeting, Bible study, prayer or small group meeting) trust God to share a word of prophesy for someone present.
6. Ask the Lord to give a word of encouragement to you for someone who needs it today. Pray in the Spirit or wait on God until he puts someone in mind, then wait and pray and write down your thoughts. It sometimes helps me to start affirming the person, until I can discern what the Lord says to the person.  Work on your letter until you feel this is what God says, and it is encouraging.  Then pray and send it to the person – don’t delay.

Prayer

Consistently pray and petition God for the gift of prophesy and a heart of love.  Ask that you may increase in the gift to give direction, hope and encouragement with words of life from God.

Leaders must grow in apostolic grace

God’s not dead. As Christian leaders we must demonstrate the power of God so that the faith of those we lead’s faith is secure in God, not just our words. 

In this short video Andre Kruger shares on how Christian leaders need to flow in Apostolic Grace from God. To learn more of Andre’s teaching and obtain a copy of his book Increasing Heaven’s Flow in 40 days go to www.heavensflow.org

https://youtu.be/-Y0vHIDIRdU

Scripture

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

1  And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. 2  For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 3  I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. 4  And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, 5  that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

Observation and reflection questions

1. Reading Paul’s letters – even this one to the Corinthians – he seems to be an excellent teacher and philosopher. In light of his ability with words, how do you understand verse one?
2. In your own words, answer the following questions to better understand the line of thought
3. What was Paul’s intent in preaching? (verse 2)
4. Why does he mention both “Jesus Christ” and “Him crucified”? [hint: person and work] Why is this necessary when preaching the gospel?
5. What was Paul’s demeanor while preaching? (verse 3)
6. Why would Paul deliberately aim to come across “weak” when preaching the gospel?
7. What was Paul’s preaching like? (verse 4)
8. Why did he opt for “demonstration of Spirit and power” rather than “persuasive words” when he clearly has the ability to win an argument?

Personal Reflective questions

Leaders must usher people into the Kingdom of God.  His Kingdom is not is not found in religious observance, laws and rituals; it is in powerful demonstration of the reign of God (Romans 14:17; 1 Corinthians 4:20).

1. Jesus said “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)
2. In which way does your life testify of the transforming power of God’s Spirit?
3. When last has God done a miracle through you?
4. Do you actively desire to know and experience God’s power? Why? How does your motive compare to Paul’s motive above?
5. When and where can you position yourself to experience and demonstrate the power of God “so that the faith of man may rest in God’s power” and not only your words? Schedule it.
6. Talk to a mature Christian friend about the power of God. Make a pact to agree to seek “to know Him, and the power of his resurrection” (Philippians 3:10).

Prayer

 

Leadership requires Charisma

What is the nature of leadership? What sets someone aside as a leader? Who gives one person permission or power to lead others?

To give a wider context to our devotional study today, enjoy this short inspirational video of how God empowers leaders. (https://youtu.be/6B-gQSBznmI)

Scripture

1 Samuel 16:1,11-13

1  The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.”

11  Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.”  12  And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the LORD said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he.”

13  Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah.

 

Observation and reflection questions

Context: To “anoint” literally means to pour fragrant oil over his head, or to rub it on his forehead as symbolic indication that the Lord called him as king, and as catalyst for God’s supernatural empowerment by His Spirit.

1. When King Saul was anointed before David, the Spirit of the Lord “rushed upon” him so that he was “turned into a new man” and he began prophesying (1 Sam 10:6; 11:6). Similarly, the Spirit also “rushed upon Samson” before he tore the lion in pieces, destroyed 30’000 Philistines and tore the ropes with which he was tied down (14:6, 19; 15:14). With this in mind, what is meant with the phrase “the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David?” (v13) 
2. God called David to rule over Israel. Why did the “Spirit of the LORD” need to “rush upon him”?
3. Look at verse 13 again. How long did the Spirit remain with David?
4. Why did the Lord send Samuel to appoint David for the task? What were the benefits of that public commissioning? (for David, his family, and the nation?)
5. Consider (from memory) the history and legacy of King David. What about his life was extra-ordinary?  In which ways was he empowered for his call to leadership?
6. In spite of his empowerment by the Spirit of God and love for God, King David was clearly sinful. Consider (from memory) David’s recorded moral and ethical flaws.  In which ways was he weak to temptation as leader, as a husband, and as a father?

Personal reflection questions

King David was called as leader and reformer in Israel, securing the nations physical and spiritual legacy.  For this he was anointed and empowered by the Spirit of God.  However, this empowerment did not make him immune to the seduction of riches, power and the flesh.

1. Consider your current leadership responsibilities. Where do you exert leadership at the moment? (Note all the major areas – don’t forget your own home as David did!)
   1. When and where has someone laid hands on you in the presence of God to commission you for these tasks? [If you have not been commissioned for this task, speak to your elder/ pastor / small group leader about this. It needs to be verified and you need to be commissioned.]
   2. In which ways are you empowered by God for the tasks he has called you?
   3. In which areas are you weak to temptation?
   4. Consider this article on Friendship Accountability – someone needs to pray for you about these two aspects of your call! (https://walklikejesus.net/2014/10/09/accountability-in-friendship/)

Prayer

Thank God for your call to leadership – reaffirm your service to God in these areas.  Ask God for grace (empowerment and help) in these areas of service.  And ask the Lord for grace to not fall into temptation that you may continue to serve him well today.