How should a leader evaluate people?

Matthew 25:20-21“The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of silver came forward with five more and said, ‘Master, you gave me five bags of silver to invest, and I have earned five more.’ The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’”

1 Timothy 1:4-7Don’t let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don’t help people live a life of faith in God. The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. But some people have missed this whole point. They have turned away from these things and spend their time in meaningless discussions. They want to be known as teachers of the law of Moses, but they don’t know what they are talking about, even though they speak so confidently.

Leaders have the difficult task of examining people to determine their fitness for particular tasks and responsibilities. This may seem like judging a person, but it isn’t. Judging has to do with reaching a negative conclusion about a person’s eternal destiny—something only God can know. Evaluation is about determining a person’s fitness and gifting for service and for discerning areas for growth and development.

1 Timothy 5:22Never be in a hurry about appointing a church leader. Do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

Selecting others for roles of influence is a grave responsibility and should not be rushed. If we choose someone unfit for service, we share the responsibility for the consequences.

Acts 1:23-25They nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they all prayed, “O Lord, you know every heart. Show us which of these men you have chosen as an apostle to replace Judas in this ministry, for he has deserted us and gone where he belongs.”

The wisdom of others can help us narrow down a field of applicants, but seeking God’s will through prayer is essential in any major decision.