Seeking Godly Leadership in a New Year

 

Summary

As we gather today, we find ourselves at the threshold of a new year, filled with opportunities and challenges. It's a time to reflect on our past and look forward to the future with hope and determination. This morning, we are embarking on a journey through the book of 1 Samuel, a book that speaks to the heart of leadership and the need for a worthy leader. As we delve into this book, we are reminded of the leadership crisis that has persisted throughout history and continues to affect our world today.

In our nation, our communities, our churches, and our homes, we see the need for strong, godly leadership. The book of 1 Samuel begins in the dark days of the judges, a time when "every man did that which was right in his own eyes." It records the transition of Israel from being led by judges to being ruled by kings, highlighting the people's desire for a leader who would guide them in righteousness. Yet, as we will see, human leaders often fall short, and the need for a divine king becomes evident.

As we study 1 Samuel, we will explore the stories of Eli, Samuel, Saul, and David, each illustrating the complexities and challenges of leadership. These narratives are not just historical accounts; they are lessons for us today. They teach us about the importance of godly leadership in our lives and point us to the ultimate leader, Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

In this new year, we are also introducing a Bible reading plan, starting with Matthew 1 through 6, to encourage us to engage with God's Word together as a church. This initiative is designed to help us grow spiritually and to foster a deeper understanding of the Scriptures. Additionally, we are planning various events and initiatives, such as a diaper and formula drive, to serve our community and demonstrate God's love in practical ways.

As we move forward, let us commit to seeking God's guidance in all that we do. Let us pray for wisdom and strength to lead and serve others with humility and grace. May we be a church that is centered on the preaching of God's Word, and may we strive to glorify Him in all aspects of our lives.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Importance of Godly Leadership: In a world facing a leadership crisis, we are reminded of the need for leaders who are guided by the principles of God's Word. Whether in our nation, churches, or homes, strong leadership is essential for guiding others in righteousness and truth. [31:41]

2. Learning from History: The book of 1 Samuel teaches us that history often repeats itself because we fail to learn from it. By studying the patterns of the past, we can gain insights into our present challenges and avoid repeating the same mistakes. [37:02]

3. The Role of Scripture in Our Lives: Scripture is not just a historical record but a living guide for our lives today. As we study 1 Samuel, we are encouraged to apply its lessons to our own lives, allowing God's Word to reprove, correct, and instruct us in righteousness. [53:02]

4. Pointing to Jesus: All of Scripture, including the Old Testament, points us to Jesus Christ and His redeeming work. As we study 1 Samuel, we are reminded to look for Jesus in the text and to see how these stories foreshadow His ultimate leadership and sacrifice. [55:26]

5. Preparing Our Hearts for Worship: As we engage with God's Word and gather for worship, we are encouraged to prepare our hearts and minds to receive His message. By praying, reading Scripture in advance, and cultivating a spirit of worship, we can be more receptive to God's transformative work in our lives. [56:09]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [06:09] - New Church Sign and Logo
- [13:39] - Upcoming Events and Initiatives
- [24:50] - The Role of Preaching in the Church
- [27:34] - Expanding Our Live Stream Ministry
- [29:53] - Introduction to 1 Samuel
- [31:41] - The Need for Godly Leadership
- [34:27] - Leadership Crisis in Society
- [37:02] - Learning from History
- [39:34] - Israel's Search for a King
- [41:51] - The Rise and Fall of Saul
- [42:52] - The Purpose of 1 Samuel
- [44:25] - Maturing in Our Faith
- [53:02] - Practical Lessons from 1 Samuel
- [55:26] - Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament
- [56:09] - Preparing for Worship and Study

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Exploring 1 Samuel and Godly Leadership

Bible Reading:
1. Judges 21:25 - "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes."
2. 1 Samuel 8:4-7 - Israel demands a king.
3. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The purpose of Scripture.

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Observation Questions:

1. What was the state of leadership in Israel during the time of the judges, as described in Judges 21:25? How does this set the stage for the events in 1 Samuel? [29:53]

2. In 1 Samuel 8:4-7, what reasons did the Israelites give for wanting a king, and how did God respond to their request? [40:57]

3. According to 2 Timothy 3:16-17, what are the purposes of Scripture, and how might these purposes apply to our study of 1 Samuel? [42:52]

4. How does the sermon describe the leadership crisis in both biblical times and today? What examples were given to illustrate this crisis? [31:41]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the leadership crisis in Israel during the time of the judges reflect the challenges we face in leadership today, both in the church and in society? [34:27]

2. What lessons can be learned from Israel's demand for a king in 1 Samuel 8:4-7, and how might these lessons apply to our own desires for leadership and guidance? [40:57]

3. How does the sermon suggest that the stories in 1 Samuel point us to Jesus Christ as the ultimate leader? What are some specific ways this connection is made? [55:26]

4. In what ways does the sermon encourage us to prepare our hearts for worship and study, and why is this preparation important for understanding and applying Scripture? [56:09]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you experienced a leadership crisis in your own life. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in light of the lessons from 1 Samuel? [31:41]

2. The Israelites wanted a king to be like other nations. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to conform to the world rather than seeking God's guidance? How can you address this? [40:57]

3. How can you actively seek to apply the lessons from 1 Samuel in your daily life, particularly in areas where you hold leadership roles, whether at home, work, or church? [53:02]

4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeing Jesus in the Old Testament. How can you make a habit of looking for Christ in your Bible reading, and what impact might this have on your spiritual growth? [55:26]

5. Consider the role of Scripture in your life as described in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. What steps can you take to ensure that you are allowing God's Word to reprove, correct, and instruct you in righteousness? [42:52]

6. The sermon encourages us to prepare our hearts for worship. What specific actions can you take this week to cultivate a spirit of worship and readiness to receive God's Word? [56:09]

7. Identify one area in your life where you feel a need for stronger, godly leadership. How can you seek God's guidance and wisdom in this area, and who might you turn to for support and accountability? [34:27]

Devotional

Day 1: The Call for Godly Leadership
In a world where leadership often falters, the need for godly leaders is more pressing than ever. The book of 1 Samuel highlights the transition from judges to kings in Israel, a time when the people longed for a leader to guide them in righteousness. This historical context serves as a reminder that true leadership is not just about authority but about guiding others in truth and righteousness. Godly leadership is essential in our homes, communities, and churches, where leaders are called to be examples of integrity and faithfulness. As we reflect on the leadership crisis in our world today, we are encouraged to seek leaders who are guided by the principles of God's Word and to strive to be such leaders ourselves. [31:41]

1 Timothy 3:1-2 (ESV): "The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach."

Reflection: Identify a leader in your life who exemplifies godly leadership. What specific qualities do they possess that align with biblical principles, and how can you emulate these qualities in your own life?


Day 2: Learning from the Past
The narratives in 1 Samuel remind us that history often repeats itself when we fail to learn from it. The stories of Eli, Samuel, Saul, and David illustrate the complexities of leadership and the consequences of ignoring God's guidance. By studying these historical accounts, we gain insights into our present challenges and learn to avoid repeating the same mistakes. The book of 1 Samuel serves as a mirror, reflecting the patterns of human behavior and the need for divine intervention. As we delve into these stories, we are encouraged to apply their lessons to our own lives, recognizing the importance of learning from the past to shape a better future. [37:02]

Ecclesiastes 1:9 (ESV): "What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun."

Reflection: Reflect on a past mistake or challenge in your life. What lessons did you learn from it, and how can you apply those lessons to a current situation you are facing?


Day 3: The Living Word of Scripture
Scripture is not merely a historical record but a living guide for our lives today. As we study 1 Samuel, we are encouraged to allow God's Word to reprove, correct, and instruct us in righteousness. The stories within this book are not just ancient tales but practical lessons that speak to our current circumstances. By engaging with Scripture, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's Word, which shapes our character and guides our actions. As we embark on this journey through 1 Samuel, let us approach the text with open hearts and minds, ready to receive the wisdom and guidance it offers. [53:02]

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV): "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

Reflection: Choose a passage from 1 Samuel to meditate on this week. How does this passage speak to your current life situation, and what steps can you take to apply its teachings?


Day 4: Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament
All of Scripture, including the Old Testament, points us to Jesus Christ and His redeeming work. As we study 1 Samuel, we are reminded to look for Jesus in the text and to see how these stories foreshadow His ultimate leadership and sacrifice. The narratives of 1 Samuel are not just about human leaders but about the divine King who would come to fulfill God's promises. By recognizing the connections between the Old Testament and the life of Jesus, we deepen our understanding of God's redemptive plan and the significance of Christ's work on our behalf. [55:26]

Luke 24:27 (ESV): "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself."

Reflection: As you read 1 Samuel, identify a story or character that points to Jesus. How does this connection enhance your understanding of Christ's role as the ultimate leader and Savior?


Day 5: Preparing Our Hearts for Worship
Engaging with God's Word and gathering for worship requires intentional preparation of our hearts and minds. As we study Scripture and come together as a church, we are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of worship that is receptive to God's transformative work. This preparation involves prayer, reading Scripture in advance, and approaching worship with humility and openness. By preparing our hearts, we create space for God to speak to us and to work in our lives, leading us to a deeper relationship with Him and a greater understanding of His will. [56:09]

Psalm 95:6-7 (ESV): "Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand."

Reflection: Before attending your next worship service, spend time in prayer and Scripture reading. How can you intentionally prepare your heart to be more receptive to God's message and presence during worship?

Quotes

We are a quarter of a century into the 2000s. And the more I hear that, I'm still not used to it. And it's taken some getting used to. So if I say 2024, I mean 2025, unless I'm talking in past tense, but we are looking forward to some good things. And so I'm just going to go over a few things that we look forward to in this new year and some changes and some upcoming events and so forth as we enter into the new year. [00:04:13]

I think it's very important for a church that the word of God and the preaching thereof is what drives the church. It's very important. And whether you notice this or don't notice this, one of the things that our services center around is the preaching of the word of God. We sing, we have announcements, we do other things, we have activities. We enjoyed a great Christmas party a couple of weeks ago. But the central theme of our church is preaching the word of God. [00:09:23]

And so one of the things, and this will be on your choice, this isn't something that we're just going to go out as a church and buy a bunch of things. It's we're going to, through the month of March, I encourage you, and we'll give more details, but I'll encourage you to pick up a pack of diapers when you go shopping, and I'll get you more details as I talk to them and get specifics. And Lord willing, we'll be able to take at the end a load of diapers that they can use to help keep babies alive. [00:15:30]

And a new year, I understand some people have this idea of, well, January 1st is just one day different from December 31st. But to me, it just gives an opportunity for newness. For newness and looking forward to the future. Because toward the end of the year, we're often talking about how this year was. But I'm looking forward to seeing what God will do, because we know what God can do in 2025 in our lives. [00:16:52]

We are facing a leadership crisis. I think about as we look at our nation, and that's the scope that I'm going to start with in our nation, we seek leaders who can lead us through difficult times. Whether those be political unrest, whether that be financial difficulties, whether that be foreign enemies or domestic terrorists, whatever. It may be, we look for leadership. [00:30:38]

Children need parents who will faithfully guide them according to the principles of God's word. It is a need in America. If there is one thing that could transform this nation, it is if parents will raise their children in the admonition of the Lord and will, by the way, love their children like God does, guide their children like God does, and guide them through the scriptures. [00:33:21]

By the way, we've seen this all through history. You know why history repeats itself? We don't learn from history. And as you look through history, it is amazing how we read the history of scriptures and how many times does it hit us smack in the face of our heads. Face to face, this is where we live today. [00:37:03]

One of the truths that we must come to grips with is this, mere human leaders will fail. Mere human leaders will fail. And that means we need a better king, we need a divine king. And let me propose to you this morning, Jesus Christ is the true and worthy king of God's people. [00:42:19]

And here's how we know this. Because the verse goes on to say, obey and is profitable for doctrine. I want you to notice this. All scripture is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness. [00:44:25]

The Old Testament is not just a history book. The Old Testament is a book that points us to Jesus. And one of the things that I think we need to see more in this year than we've seen in the past is make more of Jesus, looking unto Jesus, the author and the finisher of our faith. [00:54:30]

The history recorded in scriptures is not merely a list of random events. Everything which took place in scripture is God unfolding his masterful plan to redeem mankind. While the stories of the Old Testament have moral applications, they are not merely moral. Because as we go through this book, I want to see, and I want you to see Jesus. [00:55:04]

I pray, dear Lord, that as we enter into 1 Samuel, and as we march through the pages of Scripture, I pray, dear Lord, that we'll be a people that is prepared to see your goodness to us. Your grace to us. And Lord, may we see Jesus, not only on the pages of Scripture, but may we see Jesus in our own lives. [01:00:22]

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Transcript
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