Together in Christ: 'Transparent, Mission-guided, Spiritual Leadership and Care' — Acts 6:1-4

Many of us are cynical about leadership because so much of our political leadership and its processes are corrupt, ineffective, and partisan. We often fear that many decisions important to us are influenced by backroom negotiations and a lack of transparent honesty in leadership. This distrust damages the whole fabric of community living and destroys the confidence of those who are led.

The explosive growth of the early church included widows from outside Judea and Galilee (what we call the Holy Land) becoming Christians. Because they didn't speak Hebrew (Aramaic), ^[1] they could not communicate well and were left out of the provisions provided by the church to widows from the region. Some accused the early church leadership of discrimination. The problem was a public issue, so the solution had to be addressed publicly. The apostles exercised great care and wisdom, ensuring they handled this critical issue appropriately and openly. The apostles informed the general fellowship of believers of the problem, and then involved them in the solution. They gave clear qualifications for the kind of servant leaders needed to address this issue. The apostles also indicated that they would stick to their Jesus-ordained ministry roles of prayer and teaching. This openness and the apostles' mission focus opened the door for God to work and for the people to be informed and choose additional godly leaders to address this specific need. The result was astoundingly positive. The church grew. The disciples included and served the once-neglected widows. The church recognized and empowered additional new leaders. The Good News of Jesus spread to people not previously reached.

I believe there are many lessons to be learned that can equip us to navigate the complex waters of leadership among diverse groups of people:

• Problems arise when the church grows and includes diverse groups.
• Church leaders should be open about the problems and involve the whole church in solving the problem within structured recommendations.
• Leadership roles need to be determined by potential leaders' godly character and the alignment of their gifts with the needs of leaders. ^[2]
• Prayer and public support from the current leaders are important for additional leaders to begin and carry out effective ministry.
• Additional leaders must be given the authority and responsibility to do their work as the Spirit leads them.

Let's commit to appointing godly, transparent leaders who carry out their leadership responsibilities based on their character, gifts, and understanding of their mission and the mission of other leadership roles. Let's prayerfully support all our leaders as they seek to honor God, bless His people, and expand the church's witness to Jesus! ^[3]