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

Our lesson underscored the foundation of Christian leadership in the life and ministry of Christ, expressed in the Church through the positions of deacons, elders, pastors, and bishops. We concentrated on the first foundation of Christian leadership of servanthood, that role which is embodied directly in both the terminology and position of the ministry of deacons, or, as it is phrased in the Greek, diakonoi . As servants, stewards, and assistants, the deacons are not only involved in supplying the needs of the saints, and administrating resources for the benefit of the community, but they also contribute to the work of evangelism, teaching, and ministry. In our next lesson we will explore “The Christian Leader as Elder ( Presbyteroi ),” tracing the notion of elder from its OT root in the tribal system and synagogue, to the Sanhedrin and then to the NT Church. We will consider the calling and criteria of the role of elder, as well as its function as an overseer, a father or parent, a colleague or team member, and finally a representative. Like deacons, we will see the significance of the role of elders in leading and feeding the body of Christ in the heart of our urban neighborhoods.

Looking Forward to the Next Lesson

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