Fostering Honor and Humility in Church Leadership
Summary
In today's sermon, I explored the profound theme of honor and contempt within the context of pastoral leadership and our interactions within the church community. I began by acknowledging the presence of our esteemed bishop and other dignitaries, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share insights at this wonderful minister's conference. My wife, co-pastor Jacoba Obin, joined me, and together we delved into the significance of maintaining honor in our relationships, as highlighted in Ephesians 6:1-3.
The scripture emphasizes the importance of children honoring their parents, which is not only a directive for familial relationships but extends to our spiritual interactions. This commandment carries a promise of well-being and longevity, underscoring that honor is not merely a moral obligation but a channel through which God's blessings flow.
As I progressed, I addressed the pastors specifically about the dangers of contempt in our dealings with church members. Contempt, often manifested through a superiority complex or dismissive attitudes, can severely damage the church's fabric, leading to disconnection and loss of members. I shared personal anecdotes and biblical insights to illustrate how easily contempt can infiltrate our interactions, comparing it to the biblical narrative of Esther, where contempt led to division and strife.
I stressed the reciprocal nature of honor, particularly in the pastoral context. Just as we expect honor from our flock, we must also extend it to them, recognizing their value and contributions, regardless of their weaknesses or mistakes. This reciprocal honor fosters a healthy, thriving church community.
Furthermore, I highlighted the importance of humility and childlikeness in leadership, referencing Jesus' teachings on the necessity of becoming like children to enter the kingdom of God. This childlike humility is essential for pastors to maintain relatability and approachability, ensuring that our leadership does not become a barrier to those we serve.
In conclusion, I called on all pastors to cultivate a culture of honor within their ministries, recognizing that each interaction shapes the overall health of our church communities. By fostering an environment where honor is prevalent, we not only obey God's commandments but also build a resilient, loving community that reflects Christ's love.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Reciprocal Honor
Honor is not a one-way street but a reciprocal dynamic that must flow both from the congregation to the leadership and vice versa. When pastors honor their members, acknowledging their efforts and spiritual gifts, it encourages a more vibrant and committed congregation. This mutual respect is crucial for building a strong community that can withstand challenges and grow together. [07:54]
2. The Dangers of Contempt in Leadership
Contempt within church leadership can be subtly pervasive and deeply damaging. It often starts unnoticed but gradually builds up, leading to a toxic environment where members feel undervalued and disposable. This not only stunts church growth but also contradicts the very essence of Christ’s teachings on love and respect for one another. [23:03]
3. Childlikeness as a Leadership Virtue
Embracing a childlike spirit is not about immaturity but maintaining a sense of wonder, humility, and openness in our leadership. This approach breaks down barriers between the pastor and the congregation, fostering a more inclusive and engaging church environment where members feel valued and understood. [07:54]
4. Restoration Through Honor
Even when members falter or fall, the response should not be exclusion but restoration with honor. This approach not only heals the individual but also strengthens the community’s resolve to support each other through trials, reflecting the redemptive heart of the gospel. [35:23]
5. Longevity and Wellness Through Honor
Honor contributes to the longevity and wellness of church relationships. When members feel genuinely respected and valued, their commitment deepens, and their spiritual health flourishes. This principle holds true across all levels of interaction within the church, from the pulpit to the pew. [06:16]
### Youtube Chapters
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [02:24] - Introduction and Acknowledgments
- [03:48] - The Importance of Honor in Relationships
- [07:54] - Childlikeness and Leadership
- [14:18] - Understanding and Overcoming Contempt
- [23:03] - The Pervasiveness of Contempt
- [29:01] - Honoring Others Despite Failures
- [35:23] - Restoration and Honor in Practice
- [41:04] - Closing Remarks and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 6:1-3: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise—so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth."
2. Matthew 18:3: "And he said: 'Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.'"
3. Esther 1:18: "This very day the Persian and Median women of the nobility who have heard about the queen’s conduct will respond to all the king’s nobles in the same way. There will be no end of disrespect and discord."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Ephesians 6:1-3, what are the two promises associated with honoring one's parents? How does this relate to our spiritual interactions? ([04:20])
2. In Matthew 18:3, what does Jesus say is necessary to enter the kingdom of heaven? How does this concept of childlikeness apply to pastoral leadership? ([07:54])
3. What was the consequence of Queen Vashti's contempt in Esther 1:18, and how does this illustrate the dangers of contempt in leadership? ([23:03])
4. How does the sermon describe the reciprocal nature of honor between pastors and their congregations? ([09:25])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the promise of well-being and longevity in Ephesians 6:1-3 extend beyond familial relationships to our interactions within the church community? ([04:20])
2. What does it mean to maintain a childlike spirit in leadership, and why is this important for pastors according to the sermon? ([07:54])
3. How can contempt manifest in church leadership, and what are the potential consequences for the church community? ([23:03])
4. How does the story of Queen Vashti in Esther 1:18 serve as a warning for church leaders about the pervasive nature of contempt? ([23:03])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt genuinely honored by someone in your church. How did it impact your sense of belonging and commitment? How can you extend that same honor to others in your church community? ([09:25])
2. Consider the concept of childlikeness in leadership. What specific steps can you take to cultivate humility and openness in your interactions with church members? ([07:54])
3. Have you ever experienced or witnessed contempt in a church setting? How did it affect the individuals involved and the overall church environment? What can you do to address or prevent such attitudes in your own ministry? ([23:03])
4. Think about a church member who may have faltered or made mistakes. How can you practice restoration through honor, as discussed in the sermon, to help them feel valued and supported? ([35:23])
5. How can you actively contribute to creating a culture of honor in your church? Identify one specific action you can take this week to show honor to a fellow church member or leader. ([09:25])
6. Reflect on the reciprocal nature of honor. How can you ensure that you are both giving and receiving honor in your church relationships? What changes might you need to make in your approach to leadership or fellowship? ([09:25])
7. In what ways can you demonstrate childlike humility in your daily life and ministry? Share a practical example of how you can apply this principle in your interactions with others this week. ([07:54])
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing the Cycle of Mutual Honor
Honor within a church community is not merely a top-down expectation but a reciprocal relationship that strengthens the bonds between leaders and members. When leaders acknowledge and appreciate the contributions and spiritual gifts of their congregation, it fosters a sense of belonging and commitment. This mutual respect not only enhances the spiritual vitality of the community but also models the biblical principle of honoring one another above oneself. By actively participating in this cycle of honor, both leaders and members cultivate a vibrant, supportive environment that is conducive to growth and spiritual maturity. [07:54]
Bible passage: Romans 12:10 "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."
Reflection: Consider a recent interaction within your church community. How might you have better demonstrated honor in that situation?
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Day 2: Recognizing and Countering Contempt in Leadership
Contempt can subtly infiltrate church leadership, manifesting as a superiority complex or dismissive attitudes towards congregation members. This not only creates a toxic environment but also stunts the church's growth by making members feel undervalued and disposable. Leaders must remain vigilant against such attitudes, actively cultivating a culture of respect and love, as Christ taught. By addressing and rectifying signs of contempt, leaders can maintain a healthy, inclusive atmosphere that encourages spiritual growth and community engagement. [23:03]
Bible passage: James 3:9-10 "With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so."
Reflection: Reflect on your own leadership or influence. Are there areas where contempt might be creeping in, and how can you address them?
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Day 3: The Virtue of Childlike Wonder in Leadership
Adopting a childlike spirit in leadership involves maintaining a sense of wonder, humility, and openness. This approach not only makes leaders more relatable and approachable but also breaks down barriers within the church community. A childlike demeanor encourages a more inclusive and engaging environment where all members feel valued and understood. Leaders who embody these qualities reflect Jesus’ teachings on humility and the importance of being receptive to the kingdom of God like a child. [07:54]
Bible passage: Matthew 18:3-4 "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."
Reflection: How can you incorporate a more childlike humility and openness into your daily interactions with others?
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Day 4: Restoration Through Honor
When church members falter or fall, the response should not be exclusion but restoration with honor. This approach not only heals the individual but also strengthens the community’s resolve to support each other through trials. By extending grace and honor, leaders reflect the redemptive heart of the gospel, which is centered on restoration and forgiveness. This practice is crucial for building a resilient community that embodies Christ's love and forgiveness. [35:23]
Bible passage: Galatians 6:1 "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."
Reflection: Is there someone in your community who needs restoration? How can you approach them with a spirit of honor and gentleness?
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Day 5: Enhancing Longevity and Wellness Through Honor
Honor plays a critical role in the longevity and wellness of church relationships. When members feel genuinely respected and valued, their commitment to the community deepens, and their spiritual health flourishes. This principle of mutual respect and honor should permeate every level of interaction within the church, from leadership to new members, creating a healthy, sustainable community that thrives on genuine, Christ-like love. [06:16]
Bible passage: 1 Peter 2:17 "Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor."
Reflection: What practical steps can you take this week to show honor to someone in a different area of church life than your own?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "You know, sometimes we pray and we don't see a result that we expect to see as pastors. And sometimes we pray very powerful prayers, you know. But powerful prayers, they don't do anything. We only have to pray knowing that we have a powerful God. You know, because people have prayed powerful prayers and it has not gone well. You know, you just, you need a, you have a powerful God that you should love. And you should follow. And stay with him as a child. Stay with him as what? A child." [10:20]
2. "But because you and your children, or you have watched your children to do what you have done, he said, I've changed my mind. I've changed my mind. And this is what I'm going to say, is that the people who honor me, I will honor them. And those who dishonor me will be lightly esteemed." [09:25]
3. "Yeah, you know, recently I was talking to one lady. She was very, very angry with the daughter. And I said, how old is your daughter? He says, 11 years. I said, let this child enjoy her childhood. Like, if you are not careful, this Montessori children, international school children, because they speak English. That took you 30 years to begin to balance. So if you are not careful, you would take their English as intelligence. or wisdom or maturity. Meanwhile, no, it's inside." [17:23]
### Quotes for Members
1. "In what? In Anna. It's an exhortation, so you have to preach with me. It's important for children to relate. When children are relating, they must, they must have honor. You know, I think that's a point to make. You know, any time a child is having a relationship, it has to be filled with honor. And one of the reasons why it is so is that Anna releases the blessing in every proper relationship. It releases the blessing in every proper relationship." [04:46]
2. "We pastors, we are very powerful. And in the place where you are pastor, you feel very, very powerful. You have to pinch yourself. Sometimes to feel like I'm a human being. And I need to calm down. And if you are not careful, your superiority, superiority will make you lose a lot of people. And a lot of things in ministry. Because in that place of power, it takes the Holy Ghost regulating your brain. To honor a sheep that is very sheepish." [14:18]
3. "The youngest princess there is called Memukan. Memukan In verse eighteen of Esther chapter one said, Esther one eighty said, likewise shall the ladies of Persia and Media say this day unto all the king's princes which have heard of the deed of the queen. Thus shall there arise too much contempt and wrath. So, Memukan said, we should this queen because this honor or contempt is pervasive and infectious. It opens the door for others to inflict pain." [23:03]
4. "I told her, I said, well, you know, I'm not happy with you but one, you don't, you can't abort the baby. You are not going to marry the man and I want to, I want to see you in church every time. You are my worker and I don't want you to stop doing whatever because we need to find a way of restoring people in Anna because every time we are going out there, we are really hurting souls, people who are drug addicts, prostitutes." [35:23]
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