Bible Study Series
Goals for this study: To critically examine what it means to be a church member, from God s point of view. To generate ideas that will help ALL church members become more engaged in the life of the church and ministry. To facilitate discussion on barriers to effective church ministry by all members. Book Author: Thom Rainer PowerPoint Inspired by: Ivy Baptist Church Dr. Kevin Swann, Pastor
Our Commitment: I am committed to having a new or renewing my attitude about our church. I will seek to put the needs of others before my own needs. I will not be a part of the problem, but a part of the solution. I will seek to be a unified member of our church.
Question What do you believe are the overall perception that people have of Pastors and church leaders (both good and bad)?
Summary Points: Contrary to popular belief, being a PASTOR, while wonderful, is also incredibly STRESSFUL, at times LONELY and DIFFICULT to do. To do it well, you must be CALLED to do it and know that it can get MESSY (Psalms 23:1).
The greatest challenges of being a pastor/church leader. Balance/Lack of PRIVACY. Family vs. Ministry time. Emotional SWINGS Expected to know EVERYTHING and be EVERYWHERE At the same time.
The greatest challenges of being a pastor/ church leader (Cont d). LOVING people that you know don t LIKE you. Being BLAMED for things you don t even know about or didn t do.
How many qualifications of a church leader can you find in 1 Timothy 3:1-7? Qualifications of a Pastor/Elder/Bishop (16) 1. Blameless : High CHARACTER and INTEGRITY 2. HUSBAND of one wife 3. Temperate: Self- CONTROL
1 Timothy 3:1-7 Qualifications of a Pastor/Elder/Bishop (16) 4. Sober MINDED: sensible and moderate 5. Of good BEHAVIOR 6. Hospitable: KIND
1 Timothy 3:1-7 Qualifications of a Pastor/Elder/Bishop (16) 7. Able to teach: FEED the Sheep 8. Not given to WINE 9. Not violent
1 Timothy 3:1-7 Qualifications of a Pastor/Elder/Bishop (16) 10. Not GREEDY for money 11. Gentle 12. Not quarrelsome : Not ARGUMENTATIVE
1 Timothy 3:1-7 Qualifications of a Pastor/Elder/Bishop (16) 13. Not covetous: Not JEALOUS of others 14. One who RULES his own house well. 15. Not a NOVICE: Seasoned and Experienced
1 Timothy 3:1-7 Qualifications of a Pastor/Elder/Bishop (16) 16. Must have a good TESTIMONY among UNBELIEVERS. They can recognize the fruit and the reflection of Christ even if they are not saved. (Having a good REPUTATION in the community.)
The 16 qualifications are important so that he won t fall into the DEVIL S trap. There are literally TRAPS set for the PASTOR to destroy his REPUTATION which can then harm the CHURCH/MINISTRY!
Summary Points: Areas of Prayer for the Pastor/Church Leader: 1. For the Pastor/Church leader and their FAMILIES. 2. For the Pastor/Church leader s PROTECTION.
Summary Points: Areas of Prayer for the Pastor/Church Leader: 3. For the Pastor/Church leader s PHYSICAL and MENTAL health.
Chapter 4 Pledge I will pray for my pastor (and his family) everyday. I understand that the pastor s work is never ending. His days are filled with numerous demands that bring emotional highs and lows. He must deal with critics. He must be a good husband and father. Because my pastor cannot do all things in his own power, I will pray for his strength and wisdom daily.
Next Week: Chapter 5 I Will Lead My Family to Be Healthy Church Members
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