There is an inseparable link between the character of a church and the spiritual depth and quality of its leadership and servants. Their personal integrity and character define the local church’s progress. This is an undeniable important spiritual truth: Who we are in our relationship with Jesus Christ is far more important that what we do for Jesus.
In Luke chapter 6:39-40, Jesus gives us this idea with a parable:
Luke 6:39–40 (NKJV) “And He spoke a parable to them: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.”
Jesus most definitely had the Pharisees (spiritual leaders) in mind when He taught this. It was meant as a rebuke to them because they were religious rulers who were out of touch with God and leading others down their dark path, like blind guides. The result was amazing suffering among those who chose to trust them and follow them.
It’s spiritually important to be careful in whom you listen to—because you are going to become like them. You want to be following men and women who represent and reflect the very character and nature of God, because serving Jesus is a very serious thing. Someone walking in the Spirit, abiding in Christ, will be abundantly evident. Their life without question will reflect the love of Christ. Any true teacher of God’s Word will yield to the Holy Spirit, and they will be filled with the Spirit of God. Why? Because the ultimate teacher, according to the Bible, is the Spirit of God…given to all believers when Jesus left earth:
John 14:26–28 (NKJV) “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.”
It is God’s will for you to become that man or woman of proven character, prepared to serve, positioned in the right place to care and ready to go out.
Adapted from Ordinary Servant
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