The service will also include communion, reception into membership and the commissioning of Deacons
God’s Style of Leadership
John 13:12-17 (NIV)
12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
The corporate priesthood of all believers
1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV)
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
We call out of ourselves some to lead the church and to do those things that have to be done for the orderly running of the church, not to be priests ruling over us.
The Gift of Leadership
Romans 12:8 (NIV-WS)
8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
The gift of leadership is the gift of being able to care for God’s people, and is associated with the gifts of giving and mercy.
Servant Leaders
The apostles, and through them, all who are called to church leadership, are called to be servants. This is literally what deacon means.
Obedient Leaders
It is no good being humble if we do not do what we are told to do. Servant leaders are called to be obedient leaders, so that the church can play its part in God’s mission.
The Church’s response
Acts 13:2-3 (NIV-WS)
2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
We are to recognise those who God has called, and as part fo this, we are to lay hands on them and commission them for the role that God has called them to.
Not only that we are then to submit to them in love, not because they rule over us, but in grateful response to their service.
Service Details
Theme: God’s Style of Leadership
Reading:
Preacher: Robin Brenchley
Led by: Chris Hughes
