The Character of a Spiritual Leader

Conrad Hilario
Titus 1:5-7

The Bible speaks of the desire to lead for God as a noble ambition. Instead of setting a standard of gifting or talent, God instead chooses to set a standard of character. Some of these character qualifications for elders include: being above reproach, being self-controlled, being level-headed, and to have a well-ordered life.

Leadership in the Organic Paradigm II

Dennis McCallum
1 Timothy 3:2-13

Paul continues to describe to Timothy godly traits of a potential overseer (elder). He also describes another office of leadership within the church: a deacon. Paul outlines character qualities of deacons for both men and women. According to this passage, deacons can be either male or female.

Leadership in the Organic Model

Dennis McCallum
Titus 1:5-7

Paul gives Timothy guidelines on how to wisely choose elders (leaders) in the Ephesian church. These guidelines are character qualifications of potential leaders ranging from reputation to stability. The importance of having elders is explained and a brief history given on how, over time, Christianity has strayed away from the model described in 1 Timothy.

Spiritual Complacency

Ryan Lowery
Nehemiah 1:1-11

Many Christians have chosen to go through the process of sanctification, but still encounter bumps along the way. They recognize that God has shown them incredible grace, yet still are susceptible to distractions that can turn a spiritual life into something mediocre. It is common to enter into these states of spiritual complacency. The story of Nehemiah contains seven steps toward spiritual renewal: 1) face the reality of our complacency; 2) rely on the promises and grace of God; 3) spiritual dedication; 4) repentance; 5) depend on God's Word; 6) ask God to move in big ways; and 7) be willing to take big steps of faith.

Creative Thinking in Ministry

John Ross
Nehemiah 1:1-11

Finding unique ways to solve problems, meet needs or improve the spiritual health of our disciples, church and non-believing friends is what creative thinking in ministry is all about. The Bible makes it clear that creative thinking is both possible for and expected of all Christians, and that it is essential to develop strategies that will help us learn to think creatively about other people. We need to pay attention to biblical examples and avoid extremes in being creative. Lastly, there are eight tips given to direct us as we seek to grow in our creative thinking.\r\n

Christians At Work

Gary DeLashmutt
Colossians 4:2

God's will for His followers is to live their whole lives for Him, not compartmentalizing their spiritual life from their secular life. Paul focuses on four key issues on the topic of Christians at work: 1) for whom we work; 2) what should characterize our work; 3) why we should work this way; and 4) how we are empowered to work this way. When Christians serve and represent Jesus well in the workplace it can have an impact on Jesus' reputation, on our personal growth, on people coming into Christian fellowship, and growing personally with Christ.

Conflict Resolution in Marriage

Ryan Weingartner
Colossians 3:18-19

Within the marriage relationship conflict should be expected and can be healthy when handled properly. Basic conflict resolution principles are given with many marital examples. Initiating conflict should be a choice rather than a reaction and must be covered in prayer. By following the principles given, conflict can take a marriage to new heights.

Putting On The New Self

Dennis McCallum
Colossians 3:9-17

The New Testament always reasons from what God made us to be into our experience of that. The new self is characterized by love toward others, thankfulness, and knowledge of the truth.

Putting on the New You

Scott Risley
Colossians 3:12-17

As we live out of the new identity God has given us, we experience a new way of relating with others. This new lifestyle is characterized by love towards others, extending forgiveness based on God's forgiveness towards us, and an attitude of thanksgiving as we move into others' lives.