Self-Willed Leaders Are Unfit To Lead

An often overlooked character requirement for Christian leaders comes from Titus 1:7, “he must not be self-willed.” 

It gets overlooked because being self-willed is not always obvious to everyone, and we don’t like calling people “self-willed” or “arrogant.” So, when it appears as a possibility in a potential leader, it is often not seen as that damaging, but dismissed as a strong personality. 

However being self-willed is more than having a strong personality. It describes a person who finds ways to get one’s own way; he who serves himself above others and the mission of the church or organization he is supposed to be serving. 

Examine Behavior Closely

What does a “self-willed” individual look like?

There are many examples that could be given from the evangelical world these days of self-willed individuals who are in positions of leadership or who have fallen out of leadership. We tend to think of well-known public figures, but even more examples will be found in thousands upon thousands of local churches around the world.

In addition to the more common observations, here are a few ways we might identify a self-willed leader or would-be leader.  

• He will not stop pushing his pet issues and projects. 
• She frequently takes passive aggressive actions, subverting and sabotaging.
• He plays the self-assigned role of gatekeeper, controlling other people’s ministries. 
• She just doesn’t care about the negative organizational culture she is creating. 
• He creates his own separate loyal following within the larger group. 
• She is noticeably excessive or extreme in her enjoyments. 
• He is too familiar or inappropriate with those of the opposite sex. 

There are many more examples of selfishness and controlling behavior that could be given. These two qualities of selfishness and controlling behavior define being self-willed.

Confronting the Arrogant Ones

Self-willed and arrogant people are drawn to positions of power. We need to prevent them from leading, remove them from leading and even help them self-correct when possible. How might we do this?

It begins with paying attention, and then bravely calling out those who are self-willed and naming “self-will” for the arrogance that it is. This might start with a personal conversation of confrontation, or it might involve organizational authorities. Either way, this will take courage and may be very costly because we are dealing with powerful people and influential leaders quite often who do not want to hear the truth about themselves.

We need to keep reminding ourselves and others why it is so important not to have self-willed people in leadership—because they will destroy many aspects of many people’s lives. They are dangerous to the organizations they lead and they will lead them to eventual ruin and oblivion if left unchecked. We need to speak up.

There is a good example in 2 Timothy 3 which is given after listing many sins of selfishness in verse 1-4.

2 Timothy 3:5–9 ESV “. . . [Such people have] the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. . . . But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all.”

Another example is found in 3 John.

3 John 1:9–10 ESV “I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church.”

Trusting God Enough to Say ‘No’

Being self-willed describes a person who finds ways to get one’s own way and serve oneself above others and above the mission. Self-will is a deeply damaging character trait both to oneself and to those around that person.

God promises in the passages of 2 Timothy and 3 John above that He will make sure that the self-willed will not get very far, that they will be exposed and that His authority will eventually be recognized.

Self-willed people are not fit to lead. Saying “no” to them will bring God’s blessing, grace and peace to the larger group. It is of vital importance to trust God by following His clear will for leadership in His churches, and organizations that serve His Mission.

Pick A Number, Any Number

Are we still too small, or have we become too big? 

What size should our church be? It is a good question. But the answer is that it doesn’t matter a whole lot, so just pick a number and be done with it.

An Ever Elusive Goal

Each church should set a numeric goal, work toward it, and upon reaching it rest satisfied, thoroughly satisfied and stop.

The main problem with not selecting a numerical goal is that the church and its leadership are constantly chasing an undefined and ever larger goal. This is poor leadership, laziness, and really truly a sorry excuse for casting a vision.

On the other hand, other churches say they want to be larger, yet undermine it in their behavior and never reach it. Instead, they should simply admit they really desire to be the size they currently are, and be fine with it.

Indecisiveness and unwillingness to face reality produces an unfocused angst in many congregations. Many worry about growth, whether their church is not growing, growing too much, growing in the wrong ways or growing by the right methods. 

Leadership needs to step up and lead, provide directional clarity and peace. And stop wasting everyone’s time, energy and life.

Settle It and Move Onward 

A common default mode is to think that getting bigger is better and that this is fulfilling the Great Commission. But, many churches never get much bigger, even over the course of many years. Additionally, there are often limitations on how big certain churches are ever going to get. 

So, we need a better goal than an elusive and frustrating growth target. The solution is easy. Pick a number: 30, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 or more. Any number will do. Everyone will feel much better once a number has been chosen. 

This decision can probably be made in just a few leadership meetings. Consider the unique context of your church, the resources and gifts the Lord has given your congregation.  What is His plan for you, uniquely, not for every other church? 

Size will determine many things about a church, its staffing, its style and types of ministries and most everything else. So choose wisely what you really want. But, once you get to the number then you get over the anxiety, and you can get on with finding more significant goals. 

Let’s be honest and clear—church size is really not that significant of a goal.

Greater Works to Be Done

Church planting and global mission is where the truly significant goals are to be found! 

Reaching the unreached and starting new churches, that is what it is really all about, and every size church can be involved! In fact, we need all sizes of church for this enormous endeavor around the world.

The world need churches that are satisfied with who they are, not unsure and chasing lesser goals of big numbers or small numbers. Pray over your church’s number, but also pray about the larger more important indicators of true Great Commission vision that extends beyond your church.

Pick a number, any number will do, and let’s move on and move forward!

You Can See It In The Eyes

It is easier to assess whether salvation has come into a soul than you might think.

We found this out when doing evangelism among the unreached who had never heard, or heard very little about Jesus Christ. We were surprised how simple this was.

First the Eyes Brighten

When true understanding comes, the eyes change because of a Spirit enlivened spirit that accepts the Gospel. This is the Gospel he never heard before, or she never heard it in this way before; it takes on a sudden and deep personal significance. 

They see Jesus exactly for who He is and the savior they need. The emotions are there with the understanding, but may not be visible to you. It is important to go to the next step and explore the Gospel together further, and gain greater assurance by greater faith.

Then the Mouth Speaks

That next step would involve them articulating what they know and believe about the Gospel. They are eager to share what they have found. Encourage their understanding and add to it. God has prepared, pursued and persuaded them. Just enjoy and marvel!

Show them some Bible passages about their new life in Christ. Being born again they will naturally hunger for more of the Word. What else do they need to know and do? You don’t have to think too hard because they will tell you what they want to know. 

Eagerness is Easy to Perceive

It just isn’t that hard to know whether a person has received the Gospel.  We make it too complicated to discern because we make the Gospel too complicated.

In the Gospel of Matthew there are two parables that illustrate this.

Matthew 13:44 ESV “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” 

Matthew 13:45–46 ESV “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”

We make it complicated by poor explanations of the Gospel, exaggerated attempts at cultural integration or additions of parochial viewpoints. On top of this we often add behavioral expectations and lack personal transparency that would make our own transformation more observable.  

Stay focused: do your eyes glisten with the Gospel?

Have You Seen The Invisible Man?

After a church member has an affair with a colleague we ask ourselves if we could have known. Outsiders ask us why we did not know, or if we have learned what we should have known in hindsight.

We are straining to see the invisible man who can not be seen.

Don’t Blame the Victim

After a violent crime we have a saying “don’t blame the victim” and it applies here as well. Did she lure him or ask for it (the rape)? Did he say something offensive or racist and provoke it (the shooting)? The guilty are the guilty ones and the victims are the victims, let’s keep this much straight!

I have many experiences with this in my 25 years of experience in pastoral and mission ministry. Certainly, you have your own set of stories. Such things are common to fallen humanity.

Don’t blame yourself for not knowing in advance.  Don’t look down on others who were duped; it is not their fault! And don’t let others scrutinize you as some naive person to be pitied and better educated.

Usually we are not missing anything. We are supposed to be charitable toward others, while at the same time wise in our assessments. But, those who live an invisible life are good at it, often perfecting their duplicity over the years.  


Don’t be Suspicious or Surprised


It is not our job to be suspicious of everyone around us and uncover their secret moral failings. When people move into this intense surveillance mode it is sad and scary at the same time. I have seen this happen to people in churches, and it can get very ugly.

Sometimes we see things and we should take action by asking some questions and talking to leadership. And truthfully, sometimes we see them in hindsight and we learn for the future. However, this is not the usual turn of events. 

Jesus told us it would happen, that people would fall away, so we wouldn’t be surprised when it happens and we suffer. So, let’s obey Jesus and not be surprised. The New Testament is filled with examples of such people and further warnings and instructions.

Whose fault is it? Keep it simple. It is the sinner’s fault. Let the guilty be condemned and the innocent be set free. Stop trying to see what can’t be seen and focus on what is visible.

Bring Out The Treasure

Jesus Christ’s parable of the converted scribe describes the role His disciples would play for the Church, and even extends to the ministry of all the members of the Kingdom of God.  

Matthew 13:51–52 ESV ““Have you understood all these things?” They said to him,“Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.””

A New Kind of Scribe

This new kind of scribe is a disciple-of-the-Kingdom kind of scribe. 

What does this mean? It is a statement declaring that a member of the Kingdom is like a teacher of the Law who has come to truly understand the Law in light of the Kingdom. It is a declaration that the members of the Kingdom understand the Kingdom’s mystery which has been hidden for ages and now revealed in Jesus the Messiah!

This new kind of scribe is also like a head of a household. He is able to and desires to bring out treasures from the storeroom. 

What does this mean? Because Jesus has given us understanding and we embrace Him and His teaching, we are able to extract from our heart’s treasure storerooms new and old truths of the Kingdom’s reality. 

Members of the Kingdom are able to speak of glories of the Kingdom from both the Old and New Testaments. “New” is mentioned first because it is the key to unlock the Old; the fulness of revelation and redemption provides fresh and glorious fulfilled insights into the Old! 

We can take the Kingdom perspective of Jesus the Messiah and then faithfully expound all the many fulfillments.

You Might be that Scribe

Jesus’ commission from this parable is clear: We are to enjoy the Kingdom and teach the Kingdom. This is what scribes and heads of wealthy households do, you know. They enjoy their knowledge and display their treasures for all to see and benefit!

As a believer in Jesus Christ indwelt by His Spirit, do you realize how blessed you are in knowing God and understanding His Word?!

If you are a disciple of the Kingdom, then you are a trained scribe and a head of household. You are able to enjoy closeness with God, through precious times in the Word and much prayer. By reliance upon the Holy Spirit, you are able to teach and display the glory of the Gospel of the Kingdom.

Especially this time of year, consider who you are in Christ, the amazing knowledge you have been given, and the depth of joy you experience. As this parable of the well-trained scribe teaches us, our valuing and enjoyment of the Kingdom prepares us for, and propels into, our Kingdom ministry to the world.

How To Hear The Word Of God

How do people listen to the Word of God?

Many are polite but indifferent. Many others are not so polite. In fact, some are hard and hostile. Some will even kill you for it, although not often in America. 

Some are inquisitive and make a little progress in understanding, although not as much as you would hope. While there are others who always listen but never seem to learn much at all.

Some are excited by it and thankful you brought it up. But then there are those who are excited because they are excited for the opportunity to mix in their own opinions. Some talk so much it is a wonder they hear anything at all.

Some are so hungry to hear that they take you by surprise. You wonder if they are hearing correctly and their faith is genuine. Their growth is astounding. Others make just as quick a turnaround and close themselves up, or slowly fade away, or come to a standstill.

Some are pure delight and respond with true spiritual understanding. They grow and keep on growing.  God’s love in Christ is abundant in them.

This is a short list.  It seems that each person is a category unto themselves, doesn’t it?

Jesus talked about the rewards of listening well in Luke 8.

Luke 8:16–18 ESV ““No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.””

This section appears in Mark 4, its sayings are scattered throughout Matthew, and are repeated later in Luke. The admonitions to hear the Word well are applied differently in different situations. 

Jesus likely repeated such sayings on many occasions in His preaching tours. Jesus took hearers hearing the Word very seriously. He wants those who hear Him to understand this and listen well.

The Lamp Analogy

Luke 8:16 ESV ““No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.”

A lamp is lit to provide light for those in the room. One does not light a lamp and then put it out again, or go and hide it. Rather, it is put in a prominent place so as to provide enough light for everyone to see.

The light is God’s revelation now shining most brightly in His Son Jesus Christ and His teaching of the Gospel of the Kingdom. This light would continue to shine in the Apostles teachings, the New Testament Scripture and the Church’s proclaiming of Christ until He returns.

The Time of Revelation

Luke 8:17 ESV “For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.”

The time of relative obscurity under the Old Covenant is over, the time of clear disclosure is here in Jesus Christ. The time of God’s vindication of Himself and His plan of redemption for millennia has finally come!

Gospel proclamation is now public and the Old Testament is made clear by Jesus, and shortly it will be made even more public and more clear by the Apostles after His Cross and Resurrection.

Another interpretation of this verse is that the rejecters of God and the sins of their hearts will be exposed for who the are and what they are by Jesus’ teaching. It will be obvious that the Gospel of Jesus is true, and that it is the truth that tying together all of the history of revelation and redemption!

John 3:19–21 ESV “And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.””

The Lamp has been placed prominently in world history! We can ask ourselves and others, “how will you hear it?”

The Reward for Hearing Well

Luke 8:18 ESV “Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.””

Those who respond by hearing the Gospel well will be rewarded. Those who have gained some spiritual insight will continue to receive even more from Jesus.

The parallel passage in Mark 4:24-25 reads, “Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you. For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”

Those who have not gained spiritual insight, but only think have, will have their false spirituality taken away. Jesus will take it away from them and stop teaching them. Jesus leaves no place to casually ponder His words as prideful intellectuals. As it is stated in Proverbs 14:6, “A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain, but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.”

To become a close disciple of Jesus a person must hear the Word of God with a good heart, hold on to it, and persevere in doing it. Those who are close disciples of Jesus Christ receive the Word and keep on receiving it. He gives them further and further understanding by the Holy Spirit.

Consider this wonderful promise that Jesus is holding out to the world, to those who listen well—that they will continue to receive more and more true spiritual understanding without limit!

DO NOT FEED (Dogs & Pigs)

How do we know when to stop evangelizing someone?  Is there such a point?

Most of us have great love for an unsaved friend or relative, who does not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We eagerly desire their salvation, and so we share the Gospel with them. We do this over and over, using a variety of approaches.

Yet, the person only seems to get more and more annoyed and even grows in hostility. We wonder: is this my fault or is it simply the result of the Gospel itself? We ask ourselves, “should I stop evangelizing?” Is this even a Christian question?

Jesus Gave a Stopping Point 

Matthew 7:6 ESV ““Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.”

The teaching of the metaphor feeding swine and wild dogs is quite straightforward: holy things are not to be given to the unholy. Why not?  Because the holy things, which are the details of the Gospel of the Kingdom, will be trampled and the giver of them will be torn to pieces.

“Dogs” and “pigs” are derogatory terms, since they are unclean animals according to the Law. Here they stand for people who have a proven track record of hostility toward the Gospel of the Kingdom.

These people are relatively easy to identify because of their characteristic way of treating the Gospel. Pigs trample down pearls, (they criticize and ridicule the precious treasure of the Gospel), because it is not the food they want. Dogs eventually spurn the sacred truths they have been chewing on and turn on the one who gave it to them.  

The teaching of Jesus here is that members of the Kingdom are not to let these people have continued opportunity to disgrace the Gospel. The dignity of the Gospel must be preserved at some point in the process of evangelism.

These people have shown themselves to be unworthy of the Gospel by their response of contempt and hardness toward the Gospel. When this level of resistance is reached in the hearers of the Gospel, we are to no longer offer them the Gospel, so that we may go on to reach those who will receive the Gospel with great eagerness and joy.  

Jesus would later instruct His disciples according to this principle:

Matthew 10:11–14 ESV “And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart. As you enter the house, greet it. And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.”

And the Apostle Paul ministered according to this principle in his missionary journeys. Take a look at Acts 13:44-51 when he proclaimed people unworthy; 18:5-6 when he shook out his garments; and 28:17-28 when he indicted people with the words of Isaiah.

A (Spiritual) Wisdom Call

How do we know when the point of stopping is reached? It is a wisdom call. Not human wisdom however, but a spiritual wisdom that comes through the Word and prayer.

We have to proclaim the Gospel first to know into which category people fall. We need feedback from the message. We cannot and should not pre-judge peoples’ response to the Gospel. Once we have their responses we are not to continue to preach the Gospel to those that have proven themselves hard toward the Gospel and contemptuous of it. 

These are not those who are indifferent or mildly unreceptive; we should keep annoying them with the Gospel! These are those who ridicule it without really even listening. They are hostile, even violent, toward the Gospel. 

We do not want the glorious Gospel to be besmirched and ridiculed before the world. We don’t want to bring disrespect to the Gospel by letting people ridicule it. We will not save people by our own efforts no matter how hard we try. We will not honor God’s name among men if we give opportunity to blasphemers.

We also want to be strategic with the Gospel and our efforts in evangelism. We don’t want to fail to proclaim salvation in every situation that we should. We will not be those bringing Good News of salvation, if we stop too soon; and we will not see the power of the Gospel. We want the saving power of the Gospel to be what the world observes!

Prayer is the Answer

Matthew 7:7 ESV ““Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”

What is the answer? It is prayer. Do not take this too lightly.  Many of us do, and that is why we are often so bewildered. Instead of asking too many questions we should pray!  At least, let us pray first!

It is better to pray too many prayers (if there is such a thing) than to ask too many questions and try to answer them in our own wisdom. Prayer will bring the answer of wisdom in evangelism.

In evangelizing difficult people with the Gospel, we should pray first to know how to approach such a person. Then we should proclaim the Gospel boldly and compassionately, praying all the while in our spirit. Finally, we should consider the response we receive. Consider it in prayer that is, not in human wisdom. 

Repeat these three steps prayerfully, asking each time, “Lord, how much longer? . . .  Will you be pleased to save? . . . Should I continue or move on? . . .  Am I honoring the dignity of the Gospel? . . . etc.” 

When it is time to stop proclaiming the Gospel to certain people for a while, keep praying. Keep praying for his or her salvation, yet remain content in God’s ways of working and His timing. Go find new people with whom to share the Gospel of the Kingdom!

The Fig Leaf And The Towel

Everyone looks pretty much the same in the locker room.

You can’t tell who drives what kind of car, what each person does for a living or anyone’s position in society. You also don’t now who is happy, who is going through a hard time, who the intelligent ones are or who are the idiots. 

Everyone looks pretty much the same in the locker room, until they open they mouths and put on their clothes.

Community with a Towel

I remember my fitness and recreation times at the YMCA as a young pastor in Chicago. Those were good workouts. I met fascinating people. We had conversations you couldn’t make up. All types of people used the YMCA, very interesting people from the rich down to the poor. 

These regulars didn’t know much about one another. I played racquetball with many of them, lifted weights with a few others and ran the track occasionally with yet a different group. Observing their interactions with one another was enjoyable, but what made it rally interesting was facilitating their deeper interactions. 

When we sat in the sauna together, everyone looked pretty much the same as the next guy. Sweating together for thirty minutes builds an unusual community. If you have a purpose in fostering relationships this can become a place of reality, life on life. Ask people to tell their stories about the day, the crazy things they did as a boy, or what they are looking forward to. Just have fun, relax and laugh even share helpful advice. Sometimes deep pain and fears come out, so be prepared to comfort and encourage. Grab a towel and join us!

A Proverb for the Locker Room

Proverbs 22:2 ESV “The rich and the poor meet together; the LORD is the maker of them all.”

This Scripture verses reminds us of a major theme in Proverbs, and all of the Bible, of the absolute sovereignty of Yahweh the Creator, and the associated truth of our absolute accountability, whoever we are. The rich and poor alike have equal status and accountability before God. Here lies basic human equality.

You can see so for yourself; everyone looks pretty much the same as a baby, or playing sports, or getting a physical, lying in a hospital bed, and eventually lying in a casket. There are many equalization moments throughout our lives. The YMCA locker room was one of mine.

This verse might also be simply stating that God makes both rich and poor, which is true enough, but the verses that follow will focus on discussing the sinfulness of humanity.

The rich and poor “meeting” likely refers to the common bond of humanity and shared dignity, maybe also, that they will meet on the Final Day of God, or that they meet in this life in society, or locker rooms. 

The problem is that they tend to despise one another, take advantage of one another, and even distance themselves from one another. The wise follower of Yahweh cares for community and harmony among all.

The Gospel for the Naked

The guys each went their own ways after the sauna sessions two or three days a week. We all learned about one another. We appreciated one another in new ways as rich and poor alike. We all learned why we all need the Gospel, because I brought it up as relevant to our lives.

People listen when they are sitting there vulnerable.  Tell them the truth, about our common bond of humanity but also how we all are naked before God. It is in Hebrews 4:13 ESV “And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” 

You might begin at the beginning with Genesis and the parallel between the fig leaf and the towel.

Genesis 3:7,10-11 ESV “Then the eyes of both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths. . . . And he [Adam] said, “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid myself.” He [God] said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten of the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?””

Or, you might begin with The End with the words of the Revelation of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 3:17–18 ESV “For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see.”

Wherever you start the conversation, make sure to talk about the person and substitionary atonement of Jesus Christ the Son of God on behalf of shameful sinners. Encourage them to look “to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2)

The YMCA experience was so long ago that I don’t remember how well I took advantage of the situation to talk about Christ. But, I do know that I would do a lot better today with more knowledge and life experience, and being more comfortable in my own skin. 

The Lord used these meetings over the course of a couple years to create in me a compassion for everyone, to teach me how to interact with and help all sorts of people, and to train me to be always thinking seriously about how to effectively share the Gospel that is intended for all of us. 

They Kept A Record Of Wrongs

Have you ever been asked to solve other people’s relational problems?

Sometimes you can help people, and other times once you get into a conversation you discover first-hand why they have the relational problems they have.

Sharing the Notepad

Eager to meet, this couple arrived early for their appointment. They wanted help from me in resolving their relationship problems with another couple. Wonderful! Getting help from others, even your pastor, when having relational troubles is an excellent choice.

Their problem was mainly between the wives, and all four of them had apparently met a number of times to work out their difficulties. The husband and wife in my office were deeply troubled because, in their view, they had tried everything to find resolution but were unable to get there.

Then he opened the folder. They were more than troubled, they were greatly offended. He mentioned to me that he had a list of all their interactions with the other couple, the offenses and their discussions with dates and notations. He wanted to review all three to four pages in his notepad with me, along with some biblical references.

I have never seen such a thing before. My first thought was that they were crazy—who does that?! My second thought was 1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV “[Love] keeps no record of wrongs.” I didn’t think the Apostle Paul was indicating that people would literally keep lists! The most disturbing observation however was that they didn’t seem to see anything wrong with their recording of others’ wrongs against them.

I refused to look at it or hear any of it, which baffled them. They kept insisting I examine the evidence and I kept resisting, trying to move to conversation in a more positive and productive direction to help them find better biblical resolution to their grievances. Their ire got the best of them and I just put a stop to the whole meeting.

Giving Departing Advice

Maybe I was too direct at this point, but I honestly felt very little compassion for them and was disgusted by their unbiblical approach of keeping an actual list of wrongs along with gross bitterness toward others. And this is because I loved them.

I knew both couples very well and was actually surprised that they couldn’t work out matters. Yet, I never heard a thing from the supposed offending couple. Later, when I mentioned my experience to them they seemed surprised to learn that their relationship with that couple was that bad. And they confirmed my conclusion that this other couple was emotionally unhealthy and spiritually immature.

Back to my office. They were beyond taking any counsel, but I thought it best that they hear some truth from me as their pastor before they left, and as I knew at this point, they would also leave the church.

So, I tried to gently point out to them that it seemed to me that they have had troubles with a number of other people in the congregation over the years, as well. They acknowledged it but were defensive about it. They demanded to know who and when and all the facts about each every situation—apparently I was supposed to keep such lists!

A second time I tried to help them see that they themselves were the common denominator in all my examples. Often when there were relational problems in the church, they were involved. They were confused. I further pointed out that others were able to get beyond disagreements because they didn’t keep lists. Lists will destroy the list-keepers and cause them to hate instead of love their brothers and sister, to keep grudges rather than forgive.

They were intent on leaving the church anyway, which was probably best for us all.  So I gave them some parting advice to work on their issue, because it would follow them wherever they went. It was not our church’s problem, but theirs and their future church experiences would be the same, if they didn’t face it and work on it. In fact, they could damage other churches, and continue to hurt others and themselves.

The meeting didn’t end well at the time. But, as the years have passed, I am more hopeful that it actually ended very well. It spared our church from divisive people and it has likely helped this couple heal and grow over the years. I still pray for them every time I remember this story and our uncomfortable conversation.

Spiritual Eloquence

Spiritual eloquence is not the same thing as being good at public speaking, being original with cultural insights, or being able to affect hearts with healing words.

It might include such things, but these are not necessary for spiritual eloquence and should not be confused as such, as often as they are.

Apollos: Better Than Most

God has given especially gifted individuals to His Church and for this we are especially thankful and blessed. But, there are only a few like Apollos. However, all of us are needed not just the giants.

Acts 18:24–28 ESV “Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. And when he wished to cross to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. When he arrived, he greatly helped those who through grace had believed, for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus.”

Some of us might hesitate to speak because we are not as gifted, or mimic the greats hoping to be somebody someday.  Apollos is a good example for those extra-gifted and those who look up to them. His humility stands out in being willing to be corrected by those less gifted, ordinarily gifted, and see himself as just one of the group, not really any better a Christian. Many mighty would-be Apollos types have fallen in recent years because of arrogance.

Apollos shows us the way to spiritual eloquence by his example of becoming competent and well-taught in the Scriptures and then speaking boldly out of a faith-filled fervent spirit.

Jesus: The Spirit for All of Us

But, many protest they don’t know what to say or how to say it, that they don’t know enough, and that they fear arguments they cannot answer. These reasonings reveal a decided identification with human preparations and standards of eloquence. It is not spiritual thinking.

Luke 21:13–15 ESV “This will be your opportunity to bear witness. Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.” 

Acts 4:13 ESV “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”

Acts 6:10 ESV “But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.”

Jesus Himself provides His followers with the wisdom needed at the time it is needed through His Spirit that indwells them. Spending time with Jesus Christ is what fills up our minds with wisdom and grants a fuller measure of His Spirit. 

Spiritual eloquence comes from Jesus Christ. Be with Jesus a lot, even more than that. And then get out and try it. Rely on the Spirit of Jesus and prove His promise true.

Paul: Not Often Out of His League

We might still find ourselves in situations that way beyond our abilities, humanly speaking. The level of sophistication from the opposition is intimidating, and so even going in the Spirit we tremble. 

1 Corinthians 2:1–5 ESV “And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.”

This is all the more reason to stay close to the clear message of Christ, and rely on His strength, His Spirit and His purposes with that audience. This is spiritual eloquence.

Besides, who and what are we really going after? Isn’t it the salvation and maturity of those He has prepared, not trying to conquer the fierce opposition with our intellect or creativity?

Being afraid to speak for Christ and the Gospel is a matter of spiritual warfare, the evil one assaulting the spiritual gifts Christ has given to the Church. The devil and our flesh induce us to measure with human standards and encourage our rising doubts and fears. 

Spiritual eloquence is not about speaking exceptionally well, impressing others or moving people emotionally. It is simply speaking in the power of the Holy Spirit, which comes from time spent with Christ and in His Word.

Maybe you just need to speak and see what happens.

Overloading Partners With Opportunities

Like a rain that turns into a flood it can become too much of a good thing.

There is such a thing as too many partnerships and too much training. This can easily be observed in areas newly opened to the Gospel with the rush to go in and minister and the eagerness to receive all that is newly available.

It is a challenge for all potential partners to discern and decide because we all want something to work out. We want relationships. We want ministry success. 

Too Much from Too Many

Without realizing it perhaps, when many different organizations descend on an area together they bring a dizzying number of great training options. Many of the programs overlap, seeking to accomplish the same goals, and the differences in choice are not very clear to those who might want to avail themselves of the services.

So training organizations should not be offended when potential partners decide they do not need or desire what their organization has to offer. Those looking for training, coaching or consulting should take their time and select carefully and not be afraid to decline many options in order to choose what is best for them or their ministry at the time. All of us are on the same team ultimately, and we can be confident that God is working out the right partnerships for each of us all along the journey.

However, sometimes the overwhelming flood also surfaces not so noble ambitions in all of us. We maneuver to take advantage of one another to selfishly acquire resources or claim the successes or others through partnership. Yet, even in these situations it can be mutually beneficial for the advance of the Gospel, and over time the Lord exposes jealousies and ministry greed and matures His people.

Too Much from Only One

It is also possible that even just one organization or church can offer too many options. Being so eager to help, with the resources lined up to be poured in, a new large vision is ready to be unleashed.

The vision might be too large for the potential partners, or different than what they truly want and need to advance the Gospel in their society. On the other hand, there may be no vision but merely a lot of varied activities planned based upon all the skills available from the church or organization.

Being over eager it is hard to discern if potential partners are ready to receive and engage, or simply willing to work together. This over eagerness also makes it hard for potential partners to stay true to their vision and assess rightly what partnership with a particular church or organization will mean and what will be the results.

Stop the Flood

Too many options of good things can keep our friends from selecting the best.  We make similar ministry judgments, saying “no” to the good in order to say “yes” to the best. We should expect and actually encourage our potential partners to do the same, even if it means not selecting what we have to offer. 

Learn about your potential partners’ real needs in their context. Listen well and observe carefully and be willing to modify or customize what you have to offer. If your church or organization is offering too much or too many options, spread out. Match your efforts to the capacity of your parters. Find more partners or locations.

Not everyone needs the services you offer. Many different types of services are needed, and your thing is not the only thing and it will not be the best thing for for everyone. Relax and follow the Spirit’s leading and don’t be jealous. God has a place for everyone to serve.

The Main Thing Is Not The Only Thing

It is popular to promote the main thing, to unify and rally people around recovering the main thing, and then to speak passionately about the main thing. Good so far, in fact great, because the main thing is awesome!

However there are dangers in taking too strong a stand on the main thing.  It is easy and ever appealing to stay simple and general.  And it feels good, maybe even morally superior at times. Lots of people are tired of arguing, lots more, alas, are ignorant and many just want to get along and settle for peace in the big truths.

But, we are not faithful to God and His Gospel when we make the main thing the only thing, because He Himself didn’t.

The Main Thing is the Best Thing

The main thing we are talking about is Jesus Christ, who He is as God and Man, what He accomplished on the Cross and in His Resurrection, and how we benefit from this.

Most pastors, scholars and all Christians who study the Bible would certainly agree. We don’t want to sharply divide over smaller matters though they may be important and we hold our own studied commitments to them.

Yet, we also are aware that not everyone who says they are talking about main thing is actually talking about the main thing. Many popular speakers simply attach Jesus to their motivational speeches, acronym-friendly guidance, discipleship programs and products for sale.

Assuming we want more than that from our Christian leaders (many don’t obviously), but assuming we do, such a situation is another reason we should be desiring deeper instruction and asking deeper questions about Jesus Christ and His relationship to the whole of Scriptural revelation. How does it all fit together, the whole story, from beginning to end?

Many Things are Big Parts of the Main Thing

There is much more to learn.  We weren’t only given the main thing, but many other things as well. This is highly significant and it should be obvious that it is of critical importance to God Himself and in His communication to us for our faith.

Matthew 5:17–19 ESV ““[Jesus said,] Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Surely all things point to the main thing, but will you point to the main thing from every thing in the Scriptures? Yes, it is about Jesus. But how is it about Him?

Do the hard work and serious thinking required.  Don’t waste the Bible stories by launching into moralizing instruction, or carelessly picking texts for political pontification, or crafting obscure analogies that aren’t really there, or embellishing the stories for a good show, or rearranging the structure to teach systematic theology, only to add a Jesus Gospel moment somewhere along the way. We want to hear about the main thing from the many things.

Will you preach and teach it profoundly? Do you skip passages? Do you avoid books?  If you do (and many do), why?  God considers them necessary for His people to fully learn about Him and completely mature in their faith.

We Should Make the Whole Thing the Main Thing

God didn’t make the main thing the only thing; therefore, the main thing is no longer the main thing if it is the only thing. The Apostle Paul made it his practice to talk insightfully about many things in Scripture.

Acts 20:27 ESV “I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.” 

2 Timothy 3:14–17 ESV “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

The whole thing (all Scripture) is really the main thing (revelation of Jesus Christ). Let us teach about God as He has given to us His self-revelation and His history of redemption in the Bible.

Our concern should go beyond skillful rhetoric that rallies and on to the realities that transform our minds and our souls and impact our core being, beliefs and behaviors. This will take more than talking about the main thing as if it is the only thing people need to know and be concerned about knowing.

Let us definitely keep talking about the main thing, but may we also talk perceptively about all the other things that are truly big parts of our comprehension of the main thing.

A Seedy Hotel Lounge

It was just an overnight stop on our journey from one ministry site to another.

My friend was originally from this part of the world, though at this time he was living in California and would travel to equip churches and their leaders. We had worked together for a week, and now we were flying together to another part of southeast Asia, where the next morning we would part ways for further Gospel ministry.

An Unusual Dining Experience

We arrived at the hotel about 9:00 pm and needed to eat dinner.  So we decided to eat together in the hotel lounge. It was a nicer restaurant than expected.

After relaxing and ordering, we noticed a lot of activity between the tables. Prostitutes were working the tables, which were almost entirely businessmen from various Asian countries. For many like my friend and I this was a convenient city for transit, a little out of the way, but a sizable city nonetheless. I was only the non-Asian in the room and probably the hotel, except for two older European ladies on holiday.

Of course, it didn’t take long before we had a couple beautiful ladies sit at our table uninvited. My friend could speak a few of the languages the women spoke, and so could send them away more firmly than my polite American way. After a couple of annoying rounds of this the establishment understood our position.

We might have simply finished our meal and went to our rooms. But since we were left alone we decided to stay and talk. For the next three hours we talked about our past week of ministry together and about our upcoming training missions.

Our Human Condition

The restaurant continued to bustle with patrons and prostitution.  And so we also made many observations about people, our common fallen human condition, the situation we found ourselves in that night, and the unique cultural challenges for the Gospel in this part of the world.

There were a few different solicitation methods, and some worked better than others in closing the deal. The transactions were subtle but defined. Most startling was the lack of even pretending to relate as people, the sitting and waiting, ignoring and being ignored for a long time before leaving together, one following a few steps behind the other. It was business after all, and this business was done their way in their culture.  My friend would translate parts of the conversations and could supply inside cultural analysis.

We both learned a lot about people and the mission, being able to observe and process together. Yes, we still had to fend off women’s advances every now and then, and while doing so deal with our own internal reactions of simultaneous disgust and compassion.

This depressing dinner ended positively with my friend telling me stories of how churches can be effective in reaching people and making a difference in local communities with the good news of Jesus Christ, even in such societies that promote sexual immorality so openly.

1 Corinthians 6:9–11 ESV “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, . . . nor adulterers, . . . will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”

A Ministry Full of Promise

That was a most interesting night over 15 years ago. It was early on in my mission travels and the first time I had ever been that close to people with such obvious needs, people trapped in deep sin and others in a dangerous system of exploitation. I have learned much more over the years.

Needless to say, I didn’t sleep well that night. I kept seeing the faces of the businessmen and the women, the hotel staff and those standing around likely overseeing the whole situation.  So I prayed for them all for salvation, and for the churches in that city. Since then I have come to know that the churches in this city have been multiplying and reaching many people, and hopefully they are seeing some transformation in their city.

In the morning we each flew to our different destinations to continue our ministry to churches and ministry partners. We shared two additional reflections from the previous night—the world is so dangerous and yet ultimately so safe for Christians because we serve the all powerful true and living God who sends us on His Mission!

I have known and know many friends in different places around the world who faithfully minister the Gospel, often putting their lives and their families lives at risk, to reach very dark corners of the world with the very bright light of Christ’s forgiveness, transformation, hope, peace and love.

Pray for those you know who are doing the same kind of work, support them and find ways you might get involved.

My Worst Enemy Became My Best Friend

He probably wasn’t my worst enemy, but it sure felt like it at the time.  

He really didn’t become my best friend either, though after being so strongly against me, by comparison it felt like he had become my best friend.

The Worst Enemy

He was always the loudmouth contrarian at every business meeting, so it was only a matter of time before my ministry was his next project, and me.

Most of the trash talk was behind my back. He would put questions into people’s minds about my effectiveness. He would come up with ministry suggestions that he knew I wouldn’t support and were outside our mission as a church.  

He knew what he was doing and I knew what he was doing and he knew that I knew what he was doing. The worst part was that he would question my motives, slandering me before others in the church.  

It wasn’t long before I couldn’t do anything right. I suspect that he was even part of group, probably the leader or instigator, that anonymously tried to stop my ministerial credentialing and get me fired or get me to quit.

The Best Friend

I have no idea what I ever did to get on his bad side. At first it was frustrating and I tried in vain to answer all the questions people and my supervisor would ask. But after a number of months it turned into a church politics game that I learned to enjoy and became fairly good at myself!

Actually, I learned a lot during this time about how to pray for my enemies! I have attempted to put my thoughts together on this subject here: O Lord Smite My Enemies, But In A Loving Sort Of Way!

Nevertheless, humanly speakng, I have no idea what I ever did to get on his good side. One day he snapped. All of a sudden he supported me in everything I did.  He praised me and my work publicly. He would speak encouragingly to me and tell me how much he was praying for me. It was a weird relief.

We started connecting and enjoying one another. I suspect that the Lord used my prayers (and maybe his), that the senior leader got through to him, that his wife got through to him or that he finally saw that we were on the same side for the spiritual health and growth of the church. People are oh so interesting! And God is oh so powerful!

We started working on ministry plans together, and he started to love on my family and children.  My new “best friend” would move on to glory about 20 years after this. Someday I hope to get the full story of how God healed our relationship.

Here is both a prayer list and a to do list in these situations.

Romans 12:9–21 ESV “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Do not give up on those who oppose you, for you never know if God might turn your worst enemy into your best friend.

If Pastors Would Just Show Up

Today I filled the pulpit for a pastor friend of mine who is in Africa on his first cross-cultural mission trip to train national pastors.  I was so surprised to hear he was doing this and can hardly wait to talk to him when he returns!

Churches Sharing Their Pastors

I commended that congregation today for their faith, selflessness and their broad vision for the advance of the Gospel in the world!  They are a future Kingdom oriented church!

Many churches are selfish and are unwilling to share their pastor with the world, even for a couple of weeks a year.  If their pastor wants to go on a mission trip he would have to use his vacation time and pay for it himself.  The truth is that mission work is no vacation, especially for pastors.  Pastors usually work harder on mission trips than they do in their regular ministry.

Instead, churches should consider setting aside ministry funds for their senior pastor to travel 2-4 weeks a year on cross-cultural mission work.  In today’s globalized world and globalized church the expectation of pastors becoming personally involved should be a given.  Some churches might need to give their pastor a little push (or shove) to get out the door because he might feel like there is too much to take care of at the church right now.

This investment will not only advance the Kingdom in various parts of the world, but will expand the world view of every pastor.  This in turn will expand the worldview of many churches.  And once this happens, who knows what awesome global church-mission partnerships will emerge!?

Pastors Doing What They Do Best

I am looking forward to my pastor friend’s return later this week and hearing his stories of how just two weeks in central Africa changed many people’s lives and ministries!  Also, I want to hear what he thinks God might have next for him and his church in His Mission!

There are countless way to be involved in world missions.  Yet perhaps one of the easiest, and at the same time most useful, way for pastors to be involved is as pastors.  The vast majority of pastors around the world would love to have quality practical training in preaching, shepherding and leading from those who have already done it or are currently doing it.

Pastors, think about how others have invested in you, your life and ministry.  You could do the same thing for fellow pastors in even more difficult and needier places in the world.  You are wanted and needed and will make a huge difference!

Can you set aside your excuses for couple weeks, and give it a try?  Pastors need encouragement from fellow pastors.  Just get on a plane and get over there and see how the Lord Jesus brings about the fullness of His blessing to them and to you!

And when you return, please tell me your stories.

Lampooning The Ludicrous Life Of The Lazy

Have you ever been frustrated by having to give counsel to lazy people? Lazy people give endless excuses for their irresponsible choices in life, as this poem from Proverbs illustrates.

Proverbs 26:13–16 ESV “The sluggard says, “There is a lion in the road! There is a lion in the streets!” As a door turns on its hinges, so does a sluggard on his bed. The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; it wears him out to bring it back to his mouth. The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.”

This is the third poem on the sluggard from Proverbs. The other two poems are just as amusing and are found in 6:6-11 and 24:30-34. In fact the book of Proverbs has even more references to this type of fool—he is the favorite fool to mock.

A Ridiculous Fear

This first line revisits 22:13, “The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!”” He stays away from work, or finding a job, or life itself because of irrational fear of dangers out there.

What sarcasm—this is an absurd and extreme excuse to avoid work!  “Lions in the street,” really! What a fool! Sluggards are of full of such outrageous claims to avoid working and responsibility. Notice also that he is accusing the righteous of killing an innocent man by making him work!

Ever heard stories of lions in the streets?  Ever heard preposterous excuses for avoiding life’s responsibilities? Ever heard fantastic reasons why every idea just won’t work in their situation, how their situation is unique to mankind?

Ever heard upside down explanations why others really owe them, and their hard life is because of others? It is other people’s fault, other’s should take care of them and their lifestyle.

Don’t listen to the stories; there is no place for sympathy for a lazy person. And if you really want to help them, you won’t listen to them, even though they will keep on talking.

A Ridiculous Life

The two basics of sleeping and eating illustrate that he is enslaved to thoughts of comfort, “As a door turns on its hinges, so does a sluggard on his bed. The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; it wears him out to bring it back to his mouth.”

The lazy man can’t get himself out of bed, or off the couch. He does as much work as a door on a hinge -- limited range and limited usefulness. He looks like one too, as turns over repeatedly to keep on resting and sleeping.

It is not that lazy people sleep all day necessarily, but that they are given to self-indulgence, ease, frivolity.  They don’t take up challenges; they live life aimlessly and like it that way.

He can’t get food into his mouth because its too painful to finish the task. In 19:24, “The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and will not even bring it back to his mouth.” You might have witnessed people falling asleep at the dinner table such as tired toddlers, which is often cute.

Our example here is not cute, because the sluggard is awake. He got his whole arm into the bowl of food or dipping sauce up to his elbow in fact, which is a good start. But, he can’t motivate himself to lift his hand to his mouth!  He doesn’t care!

This story is about being surrounded by God’s plentiful provisions, but not enjoying them, not caring about them, not using them as He intended for His glory and one’s good. Our society is one of plenty, and has plenty of ungrateful people, and often so many who are unmotivated.

A Ridiculous Pride

Lazy people really are like this, convinced of their own wisdom about life. They think they have life all figured out, and will often pontificate on the subject.

The poem concludes, “The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.” Lazy people think they are wiser than seven wise men, meaning wiser than all the rest of the world!

There is little to no hope for the lazy person. They always have something to say about their situation, a different perspective to provide, and a rationale to meet any objection to be offered.

The lazy give endless excuses and will suck you into their irresponsible lifestyle. If you listen to them, they will work on you and you too will end up with a ridiculous life. Stay away from them.

Lampooning the lazy man is an enjoyable pastime of Proverbs, but also for wisdom instruction.  Most basically, we should learn to identify and handle those who would divert us from wisdom such as the lazy person.

Spending too much time trying to help the lazy person is a foolish waste of time itself.  This is especially the case when the lazy one claims to be a Christian, but won’t do what is right in God’s eyes to honor Christ.

Actually, mocking is probably the best medicine for the fool, though there isn’t much hope for such a person. I have adopted this technique and I think I might have helped a handful of people. Proverbs actually encourages this approach back in verse 5, “Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.”

Jesus Gives Rest, The Church Gives Work

Following Jesus Christ is supposed to be restful.

Matthew 11:28–30 ESV “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.””

So, why does church life seem so busy and burdensome at times?

Who Made You Heavy Laden?

Sometimes it is our churches themselves that pile it on.  Programs are overdone and still find ways to get bigger every time around.  Structures are in out-of-control growth mode.  Relationships come with heavy ongoing expectations and can’t seem to be just normal.  Event after event requires commitment after commitment.  New emphases or themes arrive with each new year requiring refocus or retooling.

Sometimes it is the church’s fault, and we want to escape, or run and hide for a while.  But sometimes our heavy load is our own fault.  We sign up for too many things.  We find our significance in excessive spiritual activity.  We expect too much from ourselves, and then often we are the ones who end up overburdening others with our expectations of what makes for spiritual spirituality.

Shift the Burden, Regardless

If the burden is imposed on us, how might we rest in the midst of the burden?  First of all, we must trust in the Lord’s sovereignty in our situation and not panic.  Next, we need to remind ourselves that the “why” of what we are doing is Jesus.  Then, in repeated times of prayer we must let Him carry the burden for us.  Finally, we should seek to help our church leaders see what is going on and make adjustments for the sake of our church body.

If the burden is self-imposed, how might we rest by lightening our burden?  We should begin by recognizing that it is our doing and not seek to blame others for our over commitment.  Then, we should rethink our personal commitments and what we can give that will most effectively advance the Gospel mission.  Once we have settled in prayer where we need to go, we can responsibly exit some of our commitments.  Finally, we should think and pray through who else we might have drawn into our pseudo-spiritual frenzy, and help them through the same process.

Our Lord Jesus Christ will save us from ourselves and from our religious busyness.  This is yet one more application of Hebrews 4, especially verse 10,  “for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.”