Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

IV. The Blessing, Benefit, and Reward of the Christian Leader as Bishop

Obey the bishop and the presbyters with an undivided mind. ~ Ignatius (c. 105, E), 1.51, 52., Ibid.

1 Pet. 2.25 - For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

A. The charge: faithfulness in a few things

Luke 16.10-12 - One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. [11] If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? [12] And if you have not been faithful in that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own?

B. The reward: authority over many things

Luke 19.17 - And he said to him, “Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.” Rev. 2.26-28 - The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, [27] and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority frommy Father. [28] And I will give him the morning star. 1 Pet. 5.1-4 - So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: [2] shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; [3] not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. [4] And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

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