The Leader – Do Something, Anything—just Lead - Becoming a DIALED IN Man of God

“An overseer, then…must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?)” (1 Timothy 3:2,4-5, NASB)

“Appoint elders in every city as I directed you, namely, if any man is beyond reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe.” (Titus 1:5-6, NASB)

Many men are caught off guard by one word: spiritual. That one word has stopped men in their tracks. That one word has caused some of the most successful leaders I know to scratch their heads in dismay. The word ‘spiritual’ in the phrase “spiritual leadership” has paralyzed some of the most action-oriented leaders I know.

The word ‘spiritual’ in the phrase “spiritual leadership” has led to much confusion, and it’s been that way for two millennia. Even though the term ‘spiritual leader’ is never mentioned in Scripture, Paul spent more time in his letters to Titus and Timothy describing household leadership than any of the other 19 qualities of a man, most of which are one-word descriptions.

Let’s look at the three components of spiritual leadership Paul mapped out in 1 Timothy 3:4-5 and Titus 1:6.

“Manages His Own Household Well” (1 Timothy 3:4)

The word for “manages” Paul used in 1 Timothy 3:4 is the Greek proistemi, meaning “to rule, superintend, or preside over.” Here is a word picture I use to describe proistemi and what it looks like to manage one’s household. Like a roof, he presides over his household, shielding those in his house from outside forces that could harm them. Thus, he protects them. He is an impenetrable wall, guarding the hearts of those under his care. He provides for their primary needs of food, water, and shelter, along with providing for the unique emotional and spiritual needs of each one under his roof.

“Keeping His Children under Control with All Dignity” (1 Timothy 3:4)

There are four words for “child” in the Greek language. Teknon, which describes a preteen to teenager, is the word used in both 1 Timothy 3:4 and Titus 1:6, describing a physically fully formed but mentally immature person. This word includes children who have chosen to live within the physical walls under the spiritual mantle of their parents. Another way of putting it is this: you are responsible for your children while they are under your roof.

“Having Children Who Believe” (Titus 1:6)

Someone once said, “Success is being respected the most by those who know me the best.” My direct family includes those who see me most when my guard is down and know me better than anyone else. Be less concerned about your kids listening to you, and more worried that they are watching your every move!

Jesus indicated that the enemy follows a dire progression: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10). It was common practice for ancient conquering kings to not only kill the conquered king but destroy his lineage by murdering all his bloodline. Did you know that “your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion” looking for the opportunity to destroy your godly legacy (1 Pet. 5:8)? If you are saved, Satan is hell-bent on you being the last one in your bloodline to enter heaven! The stakes are high.

The dialed in spiritual leader lives by Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Spiritual leadership is quite simple. No matter where you are in your spiritual journey or how old your children may be, my advice is the same—do something. Anything. Just lead.

DIAL IT IN:

• Think about the statement: “Do something. Anything. Just lead.”
• Where can you improve as a spiritual leader? What one thing can you do today?