I WANT TO GET MADE
Be The Tribal Leader
1 Peter 5:1-4 (NIV)
1. Do not be afraid to be a leader – for that is your destiny! (v. 2)
- What weakens the church is when believers think that “being a leader” is a choice.
- We must recognize, though, that as long as we are part of the church, each one of us will always be in the business of “shepherding,” or leading God’s people.
2. We must become tribal leaders because people’s lives depend on it! (v. 2)
- A person’s spiritual welfare is tied closely with your desire, or lack thereof, to care for him or her.
- Satan will conquer a community of faith that has no proven leaders.
3. To be a tribal leader is a spiritual calling, not because there is a hole to fill. (v. 2)
- The church is in trouble when leadership positions are seen as jobs rather than as fulfilled services.
- Our perspectives on leadership are significant here: we must versus we will.
4. Being a tribal leader has nothing to do with personal control, but everything to do with godly authority. (vv. 2-3)
- Remember: the people that make up the church belong to God alone.
- A leader who seeks personal power and glory will see his or her influence dwindle to nothing.
5. The tribal leader will be validated by Jesus and not by anyone else. (v. 4)
- Do not find honor in the people that you lead; leadership is about influence, not acknowledgment.
- Your reward will be given by Jesus alone, which is eternal in value.