How To Lead Like Paul

1. The Source of Paul's Authority

   1. Christ is the head of a monarchy. Matthew 28:18; Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22-23

   2. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to His apostles.

      1. John 14:26--to bring all to their remembrance

      2. John 15:26-27--to testify of Christ

      3. John 16:13-15--the Spirit would only tell them what He had received from Jesus Himself.

      4. Matthew 16:19--the teaching of the apostles would first be sanctioned in heaven

   3. This authority is transferred to us as well, in principle.

2. Paul as a Spiritual Leader

   1. Paul recognized problems and needs of others. Example: Acts 15:36

   2. Paul took action to make sure the need was addressed (Example here: he visited those congregations again) Acts 15:41

   3. He involved others in meeting the needs of others (Note 1 Timothy 1:3-4; Titus 1:5; Ephesians 6:20-21; etc.)

   4. He developed leadership abilities in others. Those congregations could stand on heir own without him being there. This is part of the aim of any congregation--to get to this point of being self-sustaining--developing their own leadership and functioning without outside interference.

3. Developing Spiritual Leadership Skills—What do we develop? Briefly, this is how we lead.

   1. Learn to recognize the spiritual needs of others (Hebrews 12:14-16).

      1. More than just whether they miss worship or not—yet very important.

      2. It means we must get to know one another as best we can.

      3. We also need to consider one another—think about others and their needs as humans

   2. Learn to act in the behalf of others (Galatians 6:1-2 for example).

   3. Involve others in meeting needs (2 Timothy 2:1-2)

      1. This is helpful to us—we cannot do it all

      2. It also helps train others in the work. It is part of the consideration we should show to others.

   4. Encourage the growth and leadership abilities of others.