For both Gentile and Jewish Christ-followers in the first century, the family was the front line of witness before the secular culture, and a source of strength and nurture. Thus the family became an important area of concern for the early Christian church in terms of teaching and instruction. Because of this, it was critical to have the right persons as leaders and teachers. Qualifications for those who would teach and lead within the developing church were based mostly on character and relationships within the family. Although these qualifications and standards reflected the male-dominated culture, both outside and within the church, many of these principles can be applied to both women and men today. And, while they were directed primarily toward those who lead, I believe these qualities should be the aspiration and goal of every Christ-follower to consciously and intentionally work and pray toward developing personally. One never knows when we may be called by God to provide leadership, have an opportunity to teach, or simply be pointed to as an example of what it means to follow Christ. Our aim should be to bring honor to Christ’s name – our ultimate family name – in all we do.
Posted on: Mon, 16 Jun 2014 14:25:57 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015