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How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible?

How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible? Romans 12:8 (NLT) says, “If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously.” Behold, there is a lot that the Bible tells us about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit given to the Church is the Gift of Leadership. What is the Gift of Leadership? How can I know that I have the Gift of Leadership? How can I operate in the Gift of Leadership? The Greek word for lead in Romans 12:8 is proistemi which has several definitions. One meaning of this Greek word is to govern, to rule over, to give aid or to direct. Another meaning is to care or be concerned about. Notice that the spiritual gift of leadership is more people-oriented than task-oriented.

The gift of leadership is clearly manifested in people who care for those they have charge over. In fact, the spiritual gift of leadership is more about responsibilities and relationships. While it is an amazing spiritual gift, many people wonder whether they have it or not. In order to know whether or not you have this amazing spiritual gift, it’s important to start by asking yourself the following questions and finding the answers. Are you truly concerned about the physical, spiritual, psychological, and social well-being of others? Do you sincerely love your neighbor as you love yourself? Are you a visionary with a passion for leading? Do you care for God’s people and sincerely want to lead them into a deeper relationship/fellowship with Him through Christ? Are you courageous enough and able to motivate others even in difficult moments?

How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible?

Brothers and sisters in Christ, Scripture instructs those with the Spiritual Gift of Leadership to lead with zeal. The Greek word for zeal is zelos which means eagerness and enthusiasm. Another translation instructs those with this spiritual gift to lead with diligence. Brethren, anyone with the spiritual gift of leadership should take it seriously in bringing glory to God’s name. As a matter of fact, there is a responsibility to fulfill. Let’s responsibly make use of the gift to build the body of Christ. Take note that the gift of leadership is a special gift from the Holy Spirit to the Church. This gift deals more with relationships and responsibilities. And as such, you must have a heart that cares about the people and a heartfelt commitment to moving them forward. Gathering people and taking them on the right path is a task that requires leadership.

In all things, we should pray and ask the Lord God to equip and guide us through the Holy Spirit to accomplish His Will. As a matter of fact, there are several characteristics of those with the spiritual gift of leadership. Most importantly, they clearly understand that they are not absolute rulers but are themselves subject to the One who is over them, the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church. Recognizing his place in the hierarchy of the administration of the body of Christ greatly contributes in preventing the highly gifted leader from succumbing to pride or a sense of entitlement. With this in mind, the truly gifted Christian leader clearly recognizes that he is but a slave of Christ and a mere servant of those he leads. Apostle Paul clearly understood this and openly referred to himself as a “servant of Christ Jesus” (Romans 1:1).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Leadership

Like Jesus Christ, the gifted leader lives by serving those he leads, and not to be served by them or lord it over them (Matthew 20:25–28). Biblically, we know of James, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ, who had the gift of leadership as he led the Church in Jerusalem. Like the apostle Paul, James referred to himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (James 1:1). James exhibited another quality of spiritual leadership – the astonishing ability to sway other people to think godly, Biblically, and rightly in all matters. At the Jerusalem Council, James dealt with the contentious issue of how to relate to Gentiles coming to faith in Jesus the Messiah.
Acts 15:13-14 says, “And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, ‘Men and brethren, listen to me: Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His Name.’” This led to the right decision (Acts 15:22–29).

Gifted leaders rule with willingness and diligence and possess the ability to discern true spiritual needs from “desired” needs. These Shepherds of God’s people lead others to maturity in the faith so that they can discern for themselves that which comes from God versus that which is temporary or cultural. The church leader’s words may not sound “wise and persuasive” from the viewpoint of human wisdom but are filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit, leading and encouraging others(1 Corinthians 2:4–6). Foremost, the goal of the gifted leader is to serve, guide, and guard those he leads “until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Administration

The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

Administrators and Leaders

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible?

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.”

Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”

Romans 12:9-13 – “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

Group 1 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Jeremiah 23:1 – “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord.”

Matthew 20:25-28But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

1 Timothy 3:1-7 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? ...”

Group 2 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Matthew 20:26 – “It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,

Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

1 Peter 5:3 – “Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”

Mark 10:42-45And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

John 13:12-15 – “When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Group 3 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Philippians 2:4 – “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Luke 22:24-27 – “A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.”

Psalm 78:72 – “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.

Proverbs 4:23 – “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

Proverbs 3:5-10 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; ...”

Group 4 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Luke 6:31 – “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

Deuteronomy 1:13 – “Choose for your tribes wise, understanding, and experienced men, and I will appoint them as your heads.’

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

1 Corinthians 12:12 – “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.

Group 5 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Matthew 5:37 – “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.”

Luke 22:26 – “But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

Proverbs 25:28 – “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

Deuteronomy 1:15 – “So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and set them as heads over you, commanders of thousands, commanders of hundreds, commanders of fifties, commanders of tens, and officers, throughout your tribes.

Proverbs 16:9 – “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Matthew 7:12 – “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.

Group 6 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

Proverbs 29:14 – “If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.”

Luke 12:48 – “But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

1 Timothy 3:5 – “For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

2 Chronicles 1:10-12 – “Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.”

Group 7 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Proverbs 16:12 – “It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

John 13:13-17 – “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.”

Group 8 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

1 Peter 5:2 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;

James 1:5-6 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”

James 1:12 – “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Matthew 24:45-47 – “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.

Group 9 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Proverbs 29:12 – “If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.”

Titus 1:5-9 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

1 Timothy 4:8 – “For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

Deuteronomy 1:16-17 – “And I charged your judges at that time, ‘Hear the cases between your brothers, and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the alien who is with him. You shall not be partial in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be intimidated by anyone, for the judgment is God’s. And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.’

Group 10 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Titus 1:7 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,

Isaiah 32:1-8 – “Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice. Each will be like a hiding place from the wind, a shelter from the storm, like streams of water in a dry place, like the shade of a great rock in a weary land. Then the eyes of those who see will not be closed, and the ears of those who hear will give attention. The heart of the hasty will understand and know, and the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak distinctly. The fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honorable. ...”

1 Timothy 4:2 – “Through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

Deuteronomy 17:16-20 – “Only he must not acquire many horses for himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to acquire many horses, since the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall never return that way again.’ And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold. “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, …”

Group 11 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Acts 6:3 – “Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.”

1 Peter 5:2-5 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

Proverbs 31:8-9 – “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Isaiah 6:8And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Isaiah 3:12 – “My people—infants are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, your guides mislead you and they have swallowed up the course of your paths.

Group 12 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

1 Thessalonians 5:14 – “And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Ephesians 4:11-16 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. ...”

1 Timothy 3:1-13 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? …

Psalm 23:1-6 – “A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …

Group 13 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Titus 1:6 – “If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Isaiah 56:11 – “The dogs have a mighty appetite; they never have enough. But they are shepherds who have no understanding; they have all turned to their own way, each to his own gain, one and all.

Proverbs 16:7 – “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

Matthew 20:20-28 – “Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. …

Group 14 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Proverbs 22:29 – “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”

Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Proverbs 29:4 – “By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.”

Titus 1:7-14 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party. They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. ...”

Group 15 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

1 Corinthians 10:12 – “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.

2 Chronicles 20:1-37 – “After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, came against Jehoshaphat for battle. Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, …

Romans 13:1 – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”

Proverbs 27:23-24 – “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Group 16 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

Isaiah 33:15-16 – “He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly, who despises the gain of oppressions, who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe, who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed and shuts his eyes from looking on evil, he will dwell on the heights; his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks; his bread will be given him; his water will be sure.”

1 Timothy 3:6 – “He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.”

1 Peter 5:2-4 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Group 17 – How Do I Know If I Have The Gift Of Leadership In The Bible

Proverbs 24:10 – “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

James 3:13-18 – “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. …

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

1 Samuel 16:18One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.”

Also Read

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership?

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership? Romans 12:8 (NLT) says, “If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously.” Behold, there is a lot that the Bible tells us about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit given to the Church is the Gift of Leadership. What is the Gift of Leadership? How can I know that I have the Gift of Leadership? How can I operate in the Gift of Leadership? The Greek word for lead in Romans 12:8 is proistemi which has several definitions. One meaning of this Greek word is to govern, to rule over, to give aid or to direct. Another meaning is to care or be concerned about. Notice that the spiritual gift of leadership is more people-oriented than task-oriented.

The gift of leadership is clearly manifested in people who care for those they have charge over. In fact, the spiritual gift of leadership is more about responsibilities and relationships. While it is an amazing spiritual gift, many people wonder whether they have it or not. In order to know whether or not you have this amazing spiritual gift, it’s important to start by asking yourself the following questions and finding the answers. Are you truly concerned about the physical, spiritual, psychological, and social well-being of others? Do you sincerely love your neighbor as you love yourself? Are you a visionary with a passion for leading? Do you care for God’s people and sincerely want to lead them into a deeper relationship/fellowship with Him through Christ? Are you courageous enough and able to motivate others even in difficult moments?

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership?

Brothers and sisters in Christ, Scripture instructs those with the Spiritual Gift of Leadership to lead with zeal. The Greek word for zeal is zelos which means eagerness and enthusiasm. Another translation instructs those with this spiritual gift to lead with diligence. Brethren, anyone with the spiritual gift of leadership should take it seriously in bringing glory to God’s name. As a matter of fact, there is a responsibility to fulfill. Let’s responsibly make use of the gift to build the body of Christ. Take note that the gift of leadership is a special gift from the Holy Spirit to the Church. This gift deals more with relationships and responsibilities. And as such, you must have a heart that cares about the people and a heartfelt commitment to moving them forward. Gathering people and taking them on the right path is a task that requires leadership.

In all things, we should pray and ask the Lord God to equip and guide us through the Holy Spirit to accomplish His Will. As a matter of fact, there are several characteristics of those with the spiritual gift of leadership. Most importantly, they clearly understand that they are not absolute rulers but are themselves subject to the One who is over them, the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church. Recognizing his place in the hierarchy of the administration of the body of Christ greatly contributes in preventing the highly gifted leader from succumbing to pride or a sense of entitlement. With this in mind, the truly gifted Christian leader clearly recognizes that he is but a slave of Christ and a mere servant of those he leads. Apostle Paul clearly understood this and openly referred to himself as a “servant of Christ Jesus” (Romans 1:1).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Leadership

Like Jesus Christ, the gifted leader lives by serving those he leads, and not to be served by them or lord it over them (Matthew 20:25–28). Biblically, we know of James, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ, who had the gift of leadership as he led the Church in Jerusalem. Like the apostle Paul, James referred to himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (James 1:1). James exhibited another quality of spiritual leadership – the astonishing ability to sway other people to think godly, Biblically, and rightly in all matters. At the Jerusalem Council, James dealt with the contentious issue of how to relate to Gentiles coming to faith in Jesus the Messiah.
Acts 15:13-14 says, “And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, ‘Men and brethren, listen to me: Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His Name.’” This led to the right decision (Acts 15:22–29).

Gifted leaders rule with willingness and diligence and possess the ability to discern true spiritual needs from “desired” needs. These Shepherds of God’s people lead others to maturity in the faith so that they can discern for themselves that which comes from God versus that which is temporary or cultural. The church leader’s words may not sound “wise and persuasive” from the viewpoint of human wisdom but are filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit, leading and encouraging others(1 Corinthians 2:4–6). Foremost, the goal of the gifted leader is to serve, guide, and guard those he leads “until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Administration

The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

Administrators and Leaders

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership?

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.”

Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”

Romans 12:9-13 – “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

Group 1 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Jeremiah 23:1 – “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord.”

Matthew 20:25-28But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

1 Timothy 3:1-7 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? ...”

Group 2 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Matthew 20:26 – “It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,

Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

John 13:12-15 – “When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

1 Peter 5:3 – “Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”

Mark 10:42-45And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Group 3 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Psalm 78:72 – “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.

Proverbs 4:23 – “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

Proverbs 3:5-10 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; ...”

Philippians 2:4 – “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Luke 22:24-27 – “A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.”

Group 4 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Luke 6:31 – “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

Deuteronomy 1:13 – “Choose for your tribes wise, understanding, and experienced men, and I will appoint them as your heads.’

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

1 Corinthians 12:12 – “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.

Group 5 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Matthew 5:37 – “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.”

Luke 22:26 – “But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

Proverbs 25:28 – “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

Deuteronomy 1:15 – “So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and set them as heads over you, commanders of thousands, commanders of hundreds, commanders of fifties, commanders of tens, and officers, throughout your tribes.

Proverbs 16:9 – “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Matthew 7:12 – “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.

Group 6 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

Proverbs 29:14 – “If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.”

Luke 12:48 – “But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

1 Timothy 3:5 – “For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

2 Chronicles 1:10-12 – “Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.”

Group 7 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

John 13:13-17 – “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.”

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Proverbs 16:12 – “It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Group 8 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Peter 5:2 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;

James 1:5-6 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”

James 1:12 – “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Matthew 24:45-47 – “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.

Group 9 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Proverbs 29:12 – “If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.”

Titus 1:5-9 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

1 Timothy 4:8 – “For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

Deuteronomy 1:16-17 – “And I charged your judges at that time, ‘Hear the cases between your brothers, and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the alien who is with him. You shall not be partial in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be intimidated by anyone, for the judgment is God’s. And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.’

Group 10 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Timothy 4:2 – “Through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

Deuteronomy 17:16-20 – “Only he must not acquire many horses for himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to acquire many horses, since the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall never return that way again.’ And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold. “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, …”

Titus 1:7 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,

Isaiah 32:1-8 – “Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice. Each will be like a hiding place from the wind, a shelter from the storm, like streams of water in a dry place, like the shade of a great rock in a weary land. Then the eyes of those who see will not be closed, and the ears of those who hear will give attention. The heart of the hasty will understand and know, and the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak distinctly. The fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honorable. ...”

Group 11 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Acts 6:3 – “Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.”

1 Peter 5:2-5 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

Proverbs 31:8-9 – “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Isaiah 6:8And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Isaiah 3:12 – “My people—infants are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, your guides mislead you and they have swallowed up the course of your paths.

Group 12 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Thessalonians 5:14 – “And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Ephesians 4:11-16 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. ...”

1 Timothy 3:1-13 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? …

Psalm 23:1-6 – “A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …

Group 13 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Proverbs 16:7 – “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

Matthew 20:20-28 – “Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. …

Titus 1:6 – “If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Isaiah 56:11 – “The dogs have a mighty appetite; they never have enough. But they are shepherds who have no understanding; they have all turned to their own way, each to his own gain, one and all.

Group 14 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Proverbs 22:29 – “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”

Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Proverbs 29:4 – “By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.”

Titus 1:7-14 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party. They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. ...”

Group 15 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Corinthians 10:12 – “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.

2 Chronicles 20:1-37 – “After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, came against Jehoshaphat for battle. Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, …

Romans 13:1 – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”

Proverbs 27:23-24 – “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Group 16 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

Isaiah 33:15-16 – “He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly, who despises the gain of oppressions, who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe, who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed and shuts his eyes from looking on evil, he will dwell on the heights; his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks; his bread will be given him; his water will be sure.”

1 Timothy 3:6 – “He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.”

1 Peter 5:2-4 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Group 17 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

1 Samuel 16:18One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.”

Proverbs 24:10 – “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

James 3:13-18 – “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. …

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What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader?

What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader? Romans 12:8 (NLT) says, “If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously.” Behold, there is a lot that the Bible tells us about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit given to the Church is the Gift of Leadership. What is the Gift of Leadership? How can I know that I have the Gift of Leadership? How can I operate in the Gift of Leadership? The Greek word for lead in Romans 12:8 is proistemi which has several definitions. One meaning of this Greek word is to govern, to rule over, to give aid or to direct. Another meaning is to care or be concerned about. Notice that the spiritual gift of leadership is more people-oriented than task-oriented.

The gift of leadership is clearly manifested in people who care for those they have charge over. In fact, the spiritual gift of leadership is more about responsibilities and relationships. While it is an amazing spiritual gift, many people wonder whether they have it or not. In order to know whether or not you have this amazing spiritual gift, it’s important to start by asking yourself the following questions and finding the answers. Are you truly concerned about the physical, spiritual, psychological, and social well-being of others? Do you sincerely love your neighbor as you love yourself? Are you a visionary with a passion for leading? Do you care for God’s people and sincerely want to lead them into a deeper relationship/fellowship with Him through Christ? Are you courageous enough and able to motivate others even in difficult moments?

What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader?

Brothers and sisters in Christ, Scripture instructs those with the Spiritual Gift of Leadership to lead with zeal. The Greek word for zeal is zelos which means eagerness and enthusiasm. Another translation instructs those with this spiritual gift to lead with diligence. Brethren, anyone with the spiritual gift of leadership should take it seriously in bringing glory to God’s name. As a matter of fact, there is a responsibility to fulfill. Let’s responsibly make use of the gift to build the body of Christ. Take note that the gift of leadership is a special gift from the Holy Spirit to the Church. This gift deals more with relationships and responsibilities. And as such, you must have a heart that cares about the people and a heartfelt commitment to moving them forward. Gathering people and taking them on the right path is a task that requires leadership.

In all things, we should pray and ask the Lord God to equip and guide us through the Holy Spirit to accomplish His Will. As a matter of fact, there are several characteristics of those with the spiritual gift of leadership. Most importantly, they clearly understand that they are not absolute rulers but are themselves subject to the One who is over them, the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church. Recognizing his place in the hierarchy of the administration of the body of Christ greatly contributes in preventing the highly gifted leader from succumbing to pride or a sense of entitlement. With this in mind, the truly gifted Christian leader clearly recognizes that he is but a slave of Christ and a mere servant of those he leads. Apostle Paul clearly understood this and openly referred to himself as a “servant of Christ Jesus” (Romans 1:1).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Leadership

Like Jesus Christ, the gifted leader lives by serving those he leads, and not to be served by them or lord it over them (Matthew 20:25–28). Biblically, we know of James, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ, who had the gift of leadership as he led the Church in Jerusalem. Like the apostle Paul, James referred to himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (James 1:1). James exhibited another quality of spiritual leadership – the astonishing ability to sway other people to think godly, Biblically, and rightly in all matters. At the Jerusalem Council, James dealt with the contentious issue of how to relate to Gentiles coming to faith in Jesus the Messiah.
Acts 15:13-14 says, “And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, ‘Men and brethren, listen to me: Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His Name.’” This led to the right decision (Acts 15:22–29).

Gifted leaders rule with willingness and diligence and possess the ability to discern true spiritual needs from “desired” needs. These Shepherds of God’s people lead others to maturity in the faith so that they can discern for themselves that which comes from God versus that which is temporary or cultural. The church leader’s words may not sound “wise and persuasive” from the viewpoint of human wisdom but are filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit, leading and encouraging others(1 Corinthians 2:4–6). Foremost, the goal of the gifted leader is to serve, guide, and guard those he leads “until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Administration

The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

Administrators and Leaders

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader?

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.”

Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”

Romans 12:9-13 – “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

Group 1 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Jeremiah 23:1 – “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord.”

Matthew 20:25-28But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

1 Timothy 3:1-7 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? ...”

Group 2 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

1 Peter 5:3 – “Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”

Mark 10:42-45And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Matthew 20:26 – “It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,

Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

John 13:12-15 – “When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Group 3 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Philippians 2:4 – “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Luke 22:24-27 – “A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.”

Psalm 78:72 – “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.

Proverbs 4:23 – “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

Proverbs 3:5-10 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; ...”

Group 4 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Luke 6:31 – “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

Deuteronomy 1:13 – “Choose for your tribes wise, understanding, and experienced men, and I will appoint them as your heads.’

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

1 Corinthians 12:12 – “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.

Group 5 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Matthew 5:37 – “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.”

Luke 22:26 – “But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

Proverbs 25:28 – “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

Deuteronomy 1:15 – “So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and set them as heads over you, commanders of thousands, commanders of hundreds, commanders of fifties, commanders of tens, and officers, throughout your tribes.

Proverbs 16:9 – “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Matthew 7:12 – “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.

Group 6 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

Proverbs 29:14 – “If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.”

Luke 12:48 – “But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

1 Timothy 3:5 – “For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

2 Chronicles 1:10-12 – “Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.”

Group 7 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Proverbs 16:12 – “It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

John 13:13-17 – “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.”

Group 8 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Matthew 24:45-47 – “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.

1 Peter 5:2 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;

James 1:5-6 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”

James 1:12 – “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

Group 9 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Proverbs 29:12 – “If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.”

Titus 1:5-9 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

1 Timothy 4:8 – “For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

Deuteronomy 1:16-17 – “And I charged your judges at that time, ‘Hear the cases between your brothers, and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the alien who is with him. You shall not be partial in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be intimidated by anyone, for the judgment is God’s. And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.’

Group 10 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Titus 1:7 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,

Isaiah 32:1-8 – “Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice. Each will be like a hiding place from the wind, a shelter from the storm, like streams of water in a dry place, like the shade of a great rock in a weary land. Then the eyes of those who see will not be closed, and the ears of those who hear will give attention. The heart of the hasty will understand and know, and the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak distinctly. The fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honorable. ...”

1 Timothy 4:2 – “Through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

Deuteronomy 17:16-20 – “Only he must not acquire many horses for himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to acquire many horses, since the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall never return that way again.’ And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold. “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, …”

Group 11 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Proverbs 31:8-9 – “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Isaiah 6:8And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Isaiah 3:12 – “My people—infants are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, your guides mislead you and they have swallowed up the course of your paths.

Acts 6:3 – “Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.”

1 Peter 5:2-5 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

Group 12 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

1 Thessalonians 5:14 – “And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Ephesians 4:11-16 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. ...”

1 Timothy 3:1-13 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? …

Psalm 23:1-6 – “A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …

Group 13 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Titus 1:6 – “If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Isaiah 56:11 – “The dogs have a mighty appetite; they never have enough. But they are shepherds who have no understanding; they have all turned to their own way, each to his own gain, one and all.

Proverbs 16:7 – “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

Matthew 20:20-28 – “Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. …

Group 14 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Proverbs 29:4 – “By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.”

Titus 1:7-14 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party. They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. ...”

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Proverbs 22:29 – “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”

Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Group 15 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Romans 13:1 – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”

Proverbs 27:23-24 – “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

1 Corinthians 10:12 – “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.

2 Chronicles 20:1-37 – “After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, came against Jehoshaphat for battle. Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, …

Group 16 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

1 Timothy 3:6 – “He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.”

1 Peter 5:2-4 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

Isaiah 33:15-16 – “He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly, who despises the gain of oppressions, who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe, who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed and shuts his eyes from looking on evil, he will dwell on the heights; his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks; his bread will be given him; his water will be sure.”

Group 17 – What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Leader

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

1 Samuel 16:18One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.”

Proverbs 24:10 – “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

James 3:13-18 – “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. …

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What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership?

What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership? Romans 12:8 (NLT) says, “If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously.” Behold, there is a lot that the Bible tells us about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit given to the Church is the Gift of Leadership. What is the Gift of Leadership? How can I know that I have the Gift of Leadership? How can I operate in the Gift of Leadership? The Greek word for lead in Romans 12:8 is proistemi which has several definitions. One meaning of this Greek word is to govern, to rule over, to give aid or to direct. Another meaning is to care or be concerned about. Notice that the spiritual gift of leadership is more people-oriented than task-oriented.

The gift of leadership is clearly manifested in people who care for those they have charge over. In fact, the spiritual gift of leadership is more about responsibilities and relationships. While it is an amazing spiritual gift, many people wonder whether they have it or not. In order to know whether or not you have this amazing spiritual gift, it’s important to start by asking yourself the following questions and finding the answers. Are you truly concerned about the physical, spiritual, psychological, and social well-being of others? Do you sincerely love your neighbor as you love yourself? Are you a visionary with a passion for leading? Do you care for God’s people and sincerely want to lead them into a deeper relationship/fellowship with Him through Christ? Are you courageous enough and able to motivate others even in difficult moments?

What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership?

Brothers and sisters in Christ, Scripture instructs those with the Spiritual Gift of Leadership to lead with zeal. The Greek word for zeal is zelos which means eagerness and enthusiasm. Another translation instructs those with this spiritual gift to lead with diligence. Brethren, anyone with the spiritual gift of leadership should take it seriously in bringing glory to God’s name. As a matter of fact, there is a responsibility to fulfill. Let’s responsibly make use of the gift to build the body of Christ. Take note that the gift of leadership is a special gift from the Holy Spirit to the Church. This gift deals more with relationships and responsibilities. And as such, you must have a heart that cares about the people and a heartfelt commitment to moving them forward. Gathering people and taking them on the right path is a task that requires leadership.

In all things, we should pray and ask the Lord God to equip and guide us through the Holy Spirit to accomplish His Will. As a matter of fact, there are several characteristics of those with the spiritual gift of leadership. Most importantly, they clearly understand that they are not absolute rulers but are themselves subject to the One who is over them, the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church. Recognizing his place in the hierarchy of the administration of the body of Christ greatly contributes in preventing the highly gifted leader from succumbing to pride or a sense of entitlement. With this in mind, the truly gifted Christian leader clearly recognizes that he is but a slave of Christ and a mere servant of those he leads. Apostle Paul clearly understood this and openly referred to himself as a “servant of Christ Jesus” (Romans 1:1).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Leadership

Like Jesus Christ, the gifted leader lives by serving those he leads, and not to be served by them or lord it over them (Matthew 20:25–28). Biblically, we know of James, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ, who had the gift of leadership as he led the Church in Jerusalem. Like the apostle Paul, James referred to himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (James 1:1). James exhibited another quality of spiritual leadership – the astonishing ability to sway other people to think godly, Biblically, and rightly in all matters. At the Jerusalem Council, James dealt with the contentious issue of how to relate to Gentiles coming to faith in Jesus the Messiah.
Acts 15:13-14 says, “And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, ‘Men and brethren, listen to me: Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His Name.’” This led to the right decision (Acts 15:22–29).

Gifted leaders rule with willingness and diligence and possess the ability to discern true spiritual needs from “desired” needs. These Shepherds of God’s people lead others to maturity in the faith so that they can discern for themselves that which comes from God versus that which is temporary or cultural. The church leader’s words may not sound “wise and persuasive” from the viewpoint of human wisdom but are filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit, leading and encouraging others(1 Corinthians 2:4–6). Foremost, the goal of the gifted leader is to serve, guide, and guard those he leads “until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

Biblical Facts about the Spiritual Gift of Administration

The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

Administrators and Leaders

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership?

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.”

Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”

Romans 12:9-13 – “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

Group 1 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Jeremiah 23:1 – “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord.”

Matthew 20:25-28But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

1 Timothy 3:1-7 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? ...”

Group 2 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Matthew 20:26 – “It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,

Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

1 Peter 5:3 – “Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”

Mark 10:42-45And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

John 13:12-15 – “When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”

Group 3 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Philippians 2:4 – “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Luke 22:24-27 – “A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.”

Psalm 78:72 – “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.

Proverbs 4:23 – “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

Proverbs 3:5-10 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; ...”

Group 4 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Corinthians 12:12 – “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Luke 6:31 – “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”

Deuteronomy 1:13 – “Choose for your tribes wise, understanding, and experienced men, and I will appoint them as your heads.’

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

Group 5 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Matthew 5:37 – “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.”

Luke 22:26 – “But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

Proverbs 25:28 – “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

Deuteronomy 1:15 – “So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and set them as heads over you, commanders of thousands, commanders of hundreds, commanders of fifties, commanders of tens, and officers, throughout your tribes.

Proverbs 16:9 – “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Matthew 7:12 – “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.

Group 6 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Timothy 3:5 – “For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

2 Chronicles 1:10-12 – “Give me now wisdom and knowledge to go out and come in before this people, for who can govern this people of yours, which is so great?” God answered Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked possessions, wealth, honor, or the life of those who hate you, and have not even asked long life, but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself that you may govern my people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you. I will also give you riches, possessions, and honor, such as none of the kings had who were before you, and none after you shall have the like.”

1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

Proverbs 29:14 – “If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.”

Luke 12:48 – “But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

Group 7 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Proverbs 16:12 – “It is an abomination to kings to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

John 13:13-17 – “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.”

Group 8 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Peter 5:2 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;

James 1:5-6 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”

James 1:12 – “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Matthew 24:45-47 – “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.

Group 9 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Timothy 4:8 – “For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

Deuteronomy 1:16-17 – “And I charged your judges at that time, ‘Hear the cases between your brothers, and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the alien who is with him. You shall not be partial in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be intimidated by anyone, for the judgment is God’s. And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.’

Proverbs 29:12 – “If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.”

Titus 1:5-9 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

Group 10 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Titus 1:7 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,

Isaiah 32:1-8 – “Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule in justice. Each will be like a hiding place from the wind, a shelter from the storm, like streams of water in a dry place, like the shade of a great rock in a weary land. Then the eyes of those who see will not be closed, and the ears of those who hear will give attention. The heart of the hasty will understand and know, and the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak distinctly. The fool will no more be called noble, nor the scoundrel said to be honorable. ...”

1 Timothy 4:2 – “Through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,

Deuteronomy 17:16-20 – “Only he must not acquire many horses for himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to acquire many horses, since the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall never return that way again.’ And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold. “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, …”

Group 11 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Acts 6:3 – “Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.”

1 Peter 5:2-5 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

Proverbs 31:8-9 – “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Isaiah 6:8And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Isaiah 3:12 – “My people—infants are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, your guides mislead you and they have swallowed up the course of your paths.

Group 12 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

1 Timothy 3:1-13 – “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, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? …

Psalm 23:1-6 – “A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …

1 Thessalonians 5:14 – “And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Ephesians 4:11-16 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. ...”

Group 13 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Titus 1:6 – “If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.”

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Isaiah 56:11 – “The dogs have a mighty appetite; they never have enough. But they are shepherds who have no understanding; they have all turned to their own way, each to his own gain, one and all.

Proverbs 16:7 – “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

Matthew 20:20-28 – “Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. …

Group 14 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Proverbs 22:29 – “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”

Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Proverbs 29:4 – “By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.”

Titus 1:7-14 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party. They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. ...”

Group 15 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Romans 13:1 – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”

Proverbs 27:23-24 – “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

1 Corinthians 10:12 – “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.

2 Chronicles 20:1-37 – “After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, came against Jehoshaphat for battle. Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court, …

Group 16 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

Isaiah 33:15-16 – “He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly, who despises the gain of oppressions, who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe, who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed and shuts his eyes from looking on evil, he will dwell on the heights; his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks; his bread will be given him; his water will be sure.”

1 Timothy 3:6 – “He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.”

1 Peter 5:2-4 – “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Group 17 – What Does The Bible Say About The Spiritual Gift Of Leadership

Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

1 Samuel 16:18One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.”

Proverbs 24:10 – “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

James 3:13-18 – “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. …

Also Read

What Does God Say About Church Administration?

What Does God Say About Church Administration

What Does God Say About Church Administration? The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

What Does God Say About Church Administration?

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

What Does God Say About Church Administration?

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

1 Corinthians 14:40 – “But all things should be done decently and in order.

Deuteronomy 28:1-68 – “And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. …

Group 1 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “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 competent, equipped for every good work.”

1 Corinthians 12:28-31 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.

Acts 6:1-15 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. …

Group 2 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

1 Corinthians 12:7 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 – “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Deuteronomy 28:47-48 – “Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joyfulness and gladness of heart, because of the abundance of all things, therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you, in hunger and thirst, in nakedness, and lacking everything. And he will put a yoke of iron on your neck until he has destroyed you.

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

Group 3 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

1 Corinthians 12:5 – “And there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Acts 13:1 – “Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”

1 Peter 4:10 – “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

Group 4 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

2 Corinthians 9:12 – “For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints,”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Ephesians 4:1-32 – “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ...”

Group 5 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

John 14:15 – “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Romans 12:7 – “If service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching;

Romans 13:4 – “For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.”

John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

Group 6 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Romans 12:1-21 – “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. …

Acts 6:1-7 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. …

Group 7 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Psalm 46:1 – “To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A Song. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Matthew 5:38-39 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

1 Peter 2:21 – “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

1 Corinthians 14:26 – “What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Ephesians 3:9 – “And to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things,”

Romans 12:19Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”

Group 8 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Galatians 6:6 – “One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.

2 Timothy 1:6 – “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,

Ephesians 3:5 – “Which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.

1 Timothy 2:7 – “For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

Romans 11:36 – “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”

Romans 16:1-2 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.”

2 Timothy 1:7
– “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”

Group 9 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Romans 10:4 – “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.”

2 Corinthians 8:19 – “And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will.”

Luke 10:27And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

Matthew 10:28 – “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

2 Corinthians 8:19-20 – “And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will. We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us,

Acts 2:38 – “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Group 10 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

1 Peter 4:1-19 – “Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. …

1 Corinthians 12:4 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;

John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.

James 5:14 – “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”

Group 11 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Ephesians 3:2 – “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you,

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Romans 16:25 – “Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages

Ephesians 3:2 – “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you,

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

Acts 14:23 – “And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”

Romans 8:31 – “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 12:12 – “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Group 12 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

1 Timothy 5:8 – “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

Genesis 4:1-26 – “Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.” And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. …

2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

Acts 6:1-3 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.

Group 13 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

1 Corinthians 13:7 – “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Corinthians 12:1-14:40 – “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.”

Group 14 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

Romans 12:3-8 – “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; …

Judges 5:8 – “When new gods were chosen, then war was in the gates. Was shield or spear to be seen among forty thousand in Israel?

John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

1 Peter 5:4 – “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:”

Group 15 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Malachi 3:6 – “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”

Acts 20:17 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him.”

Revelation 1:1 – “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,”

Ephesians 4:16 – “From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Luke 22:36 – “He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.”

1 Timothy 3:4-5 – “He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

Exodus 22:2-3 – “If a thief is found breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him, but if the sun has risen on him, there shall be bloodguilt for him. He shall surely pay. If he has nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.”

Proverbs 25:26 – “Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.”

Group 16 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Mark 7:1-37 – “Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands, holding to the tradition of the elders, and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” …

Luke 10:30-37Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. …

Group 17 – What Does God Say About Church Administration

Matthew 5:19 – “Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 26:52-54Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?”

Matthew 4:7Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

Matthew 4:1-25Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple …

Also Read

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration?

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration? The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration?

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration?

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

1 Corinthians 14:40 – “But all things should be done decently and in order.

Deuteronomy 28:1-68 – “And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. …

Group 1 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “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 competent, equipped for every good work.”

1 Corinthians 12:28-31 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.

Acts 6:1-15 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. …

Group 2 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Deuteronomy 28:47-48 – “Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joyfulness and gladness of heart, because of the abundance of all things, therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you, in hunger and thirst, in nakedness, and lacking everything. And he will put a yoke of iron on your neck until he has destroyed you.

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

1 Corinthians 12:7 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 – “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

Group 3 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Peter 4:10 – “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

1 Corinthians 12:5 – “And there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Acts 13:1 – “Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”

Group 4 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints,”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Ephesians 4:1-32 – “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ...”

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

2 Corinthians 9:12 – “For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Group 5 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Romans 12:7 – “If service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching;

Romans 13:4 – “For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.”

John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

John 14:15 – “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Group 6 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Acts 6:1-7 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. …

Romans 12:1-21 – “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. …

Group 7 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Corinthians 14:26 – “What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Ephesians 3:9 – “And to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things,”

Romans 12:19Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”

Psalm 46:1 – “To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A Song. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Matthew 5:38-39 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

1 Peter 2:21 – “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Group 8 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Romans 11:36 – “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”

Romans 16:1-2 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.”

2 Timothy 1:7
– “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”

Galatians 6:6 – “One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.

2 Timothy 1:6 – “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,

Ephesians 3:5 – “Which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.

1 Timothy 2:7 – “For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

Group 9 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Matthew 10:28 – “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

2 Corinthians 8:19-20 – “And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will. We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us,

Acts 2:38 – “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 10:4 – “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.”

2 Corinthians 8:19 – “And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will.”

Luke 10:27And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

Group 10 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Corinthians 12:4 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;

John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.

James 5:14 – “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

1 Peter 4:1-19 – “Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. …

Group 11 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Ephesians 3:2 – “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you,

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Romans 16:25 – “Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages

Ephesians 3:2 – “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you,

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

Acts 14:23 – “And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”

Romans 8:31 – “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 12:12 – “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Group 12 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Timothy 5:8 – “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

Genesis 4:1-26 – “Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.” And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. …

2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

Acts 6:1-3 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.

Group 13 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Corinthians 13:7 – “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Corinthians 12:1-14:40 – “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.”

Group 14 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

Romans 12:3-8 – “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; …

Judges 5:8 – “When new gods were chosen, then war was in the gates. Was shield or spear to be seen among forty thousand in Israel?

John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

1 Peter 5:4 – “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:”

Group 15 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Malachi 3:6 – “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”

Acts 20:17 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him.”

Revelation 1:1 – “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,”

Ephesians 4:16 – “From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Luke 22:36 – “He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.”

1 Timothy 3:4-5 – “He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

Exodus 22:2-3 – “If a thief is found breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him, but if the sun has risen on him, there shall be bloodguilt for him. He shall surely pay. If he has nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.”

Proverbs 25:26 – “Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.”

Group 16 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Luke 10:30-37Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. …

Mark 7:1-37 – “Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands, holding to the tradition of the elders, and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” …

Group 17 – What Is The Spiritual Gift Of Administration

Matthew 4:7Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

Matthew 4:1-25Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple …

Matthew 5:19 – “Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 26:52-54Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?”

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What Does The Bible Say About Administration?

What Does The Bible Say About Administration

What Does The Bible Say About Administration? The Bible says a lot about the spiritual gift of administration. Although sometimes overlooked, this spiritual gift is as important as the others. 1 Corinthians 12:28 says, “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.” Notice that 1 Corinthians 12:28 as well as Romans 12:8 both include the gift of administration in their lists of spiritual gifts. Looking at different major translations of the Bible, the spiritual gift of administration is called “administrating” in the ESV, “leadership” in the NLT, “governments” in the KJV, or “guidance” in the NIV. Administration is referred to as a “team gift” since it thrives when called upon to organize people to accomplish an objective.

The Lord God gives some people the spiritual gift of administration so that they can use it to help organize those with other gifts and keep the Church functioning at its optimum level. As a matter of fact, the Lord God has given every true believer in Christ at least one spiritual gift to use in His service in order to bring glory to His Holy Name (1 Corinthians 12:7). Likewise, these spiritual gifts are given to edify or build up, the church (1 Corinthians 14:12). It’s important to understand that these gifts are not for building up our egos but to serve the Lord God with more power and effectiveness. Some people operate in many spiritual gifts. For example, people with pastoral/shepherding gifts may also possess the gift of administration. Note that it’s the Holy Spirit who distributes the gifts “just as he determines” (1 Corinthians 12:11).

What Does The Bible Say About Administration?

Administrators are leaders. In cases where volunteers are needed to organize events, administrators are often heading. Each church’s leadership team needs at least one person with the gift of administration to effectively organize people and programs. Without effective leadership, great ideas can dissolve into chaos. In most cases, pastoral teams consist of one administrator and others with the gifts of mercy and shepherding. With this in mind, wise leaders welcome and respect each and everyone’s gifts, allowing room for manifestations. In this way, the Lord balances these gifts for optimal service in bringing glory to His name. A magnificent, merciful pastor can possibly be very disorganized in his own life and needs a person with the gift of administration to handle the business affairs of the church while he concentrates on the emotional and spiritual needs of his flock.

In addition, administrators are also excellent delegators. They seem to sense who would effectively handle a project and don’t mind inviting people, and recruiting volunteers for the accomplishment of projects they strongly believe in. Based on their leadership styles or personalities, administrators tend to gravitate toward either programs or people. Extroverted administrators thrive when working with people. In working towards the accomplishment of their tasks, they often appoint leadership teams, effectively organize volunteers, and recruit those who need a little nudge to get involved in the project. On the other hand, introverted administrators tend to feel more comfortable behind the scenes, organizing calendars, and planning events that benefit the whole church. While extroverted administrators are more relational, introverted administrators are more project-oriented in their approach.

More facts

Have you ever wondered how churches grow to megachurches and how they are managed? Several pastors of megachurches have the gift of administration. They have the ability to lead as well as inspire other people to lead. This ability significantly contributes to the growth of their churches. However, a danger for pastors with the gift of administration is that it’s easy for them to slip into a competitive mindset especially when they start seeing rapid growth in the number of church members. Therefore, those with the gift of administration must never forget that the church is not a for-profit business. The church is a ministry that must operate in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish what the Lord God wants.

Notice that administrators may be prone to adopting business strategies that they see working in other sectors of life. And as such, may appear successful while actually working in the flesh. Romans 8:8 says, “Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.” Nevertheless, the spiritual gift of administration is a valuable asset to the growth and establishment of the church. The Lord God wants His children to discover, develop, and make use of the different gifts that He has placed in them for the advancement of His Kingdom and His Glory. By engaging in ministries that utilize our gifts, we are bringing honor and credit to the Lord God who gave them (Romans 12:3-8).

What Does The Bible Say About Administration?

Titus 1:5 – “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—

1 Corinthians 12:28 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.”

1 Timothy 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.”

Ephesians 4:11 – “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,

1 Corinthians 14:40 – “But all things should be done decently and in order.

Deuteronomy 28:1-68 – “And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. …

Group 1 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “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 competent, equipped for every good work.”

1 Corinthians 12:28-31 – “And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.

Acts 6:1-15 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. …

Group 2 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,

Deuteronomy 28:47-48 – “Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joyfulness and gladness of heart, because of the abundance of all things, therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you, in hunger and thirst, in nakedness, and lacking everything. And he will put a yoke of iron on your neck until he has destroyed you.

Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

1 Corinthians 12:7 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 – “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

Group 3 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

1 Corinthians 12:5 – “And there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;

Romans 12:8 – “The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Acts 13:1 – “Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”

1 Peter 4:10 – “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:

1 Peter 5:1-4 – “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

Group 4 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

2 Corinthians 9:12 – “For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.”

Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints,”

Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Ephesians 4:1-32 – “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ...”

Group 5 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Romans 12:7 – “If service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching;

Romans 13:4 – “For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.”

John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

John 14:15 – “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

1 Timothy 3:8-13 – “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. …

Group 6 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Romans 12:1-21 – “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. …

Acts 6:1-7 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. …

Group 7 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Psalm 46:1 – “To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A Song. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Matthew 5:38-39 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

1 Peter 2:21 – “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

1 Corinthians 14:26 – “What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.

2 Timothy 2:2 – “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”

Ephesians 3:9 – “And to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things,”

Romans 12:19Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”

Group 8 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Romans 11:36 – “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”

Romans 16:1-2 – “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.”

2 Timothy 1:7
– “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Acts 20:28 – “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”

Galatians 6:6 – “One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.

2 Timothy 1:6 – “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,

Ephesians 3:5 – “Which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.

1 Timothy 2:7 – “For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

Group 9 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Romans 10:4 – “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.”

2 Corinthians 8:19 – “And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will.”

Luke 10:27And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”

2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”

Matthew 10:28 – “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

2 Corinthians 8:19-20 – “And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will. We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us,

Acts 2:38 – “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Group 10 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

1 Corinthians 12:4 – “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;

John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Exodus 18:21 – “Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.

James 5:14 – “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”

James 3:1 – “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”

1 Peter 4:1-19 – “Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. …

Group 11 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Ephesians 3:2 – “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you,

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Romans 16:25 – “Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages

Ephesians 3:2 – “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you,

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

Acts 14:23 – “And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”

Romans 8:31 – “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 12:12 – “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Group 12 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

Acts 6:1-3 – “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.

1 Timothy 5:8 – “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

Genesis 4:1-26 – “Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.” And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. …

Group 13 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

1 Corinthians 13:7 – “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Corinthians 12:1-14:40 – “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.”

Group 14 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

1 Corinthians 12:13 – “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

Romans 12:3-8 – “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; …

Judges 5:8 – “When new gods were chosen, then war was in the gates. Was shield or spear to be seen among forty thousand in Israel?

John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

1 Peter 5:4 – “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:”

Group 15 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Luke 22:36 – “He said to them, “But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.”

1 Timothy 3:4-5 – “He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?

Exodus 22:2-3 – “If a thief is found breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him, but if the sun has risen on him, there shall be bloodguilt for him. He shall surely pay. If he has nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.”

Proverbs 25:26 – “Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.”

Malachi 3:6 – “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”

Acts 20:17 – “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him.”

Revelation 1:1 – “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,”

Ephesians 4:16 – “From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Group 16 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Mark 7:1-37 – “Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands, holding to the tradition of the elders, and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” …

Luke 10:30-37Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. …

Group 17 – What Does The Bible Say About Administration

Matthew 4:7Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

Matthew 4:1-25Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple …

Matthew 5:19 – “Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 26:52-54Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?”

Also Read

What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity?

What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity? Behold, the Bible says a lot about innovation, creativity, and change. In the Bible, we clearly see innovation both in God’s creation and in His “new creation” in Christ. Innovation simply means “doing new things,” or “doing old things in a new way.” According to the Biblical creation story in Genesis 1, in the beginning “the earth was formless and desolate.” The Lord God created light and the first day. Reading through the rest of the chapter, we see how the Lord God created variety, order, and beauty. Amazingly, the Lord God created people in His own image. Outstanding as God’s masterpiece in creation, human beings could “walk and talk” (Genesis 3:8-10). Sadly, people’s relationship with God was broken as a result of disobedience, and a new order came into establishment. The Lord God’s purposes and plans for humanity remained the same.

From the beginning of the world, God’s plans for mankind have not changed. The Old Testament is the story of mankind’s disobedience, unfaithfulness, and occasional repentance. Notice that the Law given to Moses did not keep or make people holy, so the Lord God revealed a new way to win mankind.
Jeremiah 31:31-33 says, “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the LORD. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity?

As Christians, we believe that we have forgiveness for our sins through what the Lord God has done for humanity in Jesus Christ. Going through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we see how Jesus’ life and teaching offer us a new life and way to fellowship with God (2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 4:23-24, Colossians 3:8-10, 1 Peter 2:2). As a matter of fact, the Lord God is a creator and an innovator. In the Biblical book of Revelation 21:5, it is written: And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Let’s praise the Lord God Almighty whose mercies are new every morning and who reassures us of our place in the new creation. We are all made in the Lord God’s image, and several people display great creativity.

As Christians, we can acknowledge that change is part of life, and as such welcome new ideas from people within our communities. Most times, young people have a lot of innovative or new ideas. And as such, older people should create opportunities to discuss these and help youths to develop responses to the challenges that will come their way in the later part of life. However, not all new ideas are good ideas, and as such, it is important to seek advice and test new ideas. Doing this will reassure each other that the changes which come about are consistent with the Lord God’s unchangeable purposes for humanity and the establishment of His Kingdom.

Biblical Facts About Creativity

There are a lot of things that the Bible says about creativity. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Brethren, notice that creativity comes from God because He is the Creator. Whether you are a designer, musician, seamstress, or something else, we all have some level of creativity since we are all made in the image of the Lord God Almighty, Father of Creation. In support:
Romans 1:20 says, “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.”
Psalm 104:24 says, “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Exodus 35:31-33 says, “and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts.”

Biblical Facts About Change

The Lord God Almighty, His Word, and the Good News of the Gospel are unchanging, the same today, yesterday, and forever. However, we must “embrace” flexibility to change. We must adapt, adjust, and change. Scripture instructs us to be transformed and changed into the likeness and image of Christ. The Lord instructs us in Romans 12:2, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Likewise, the Lord God says in Isiah 43:19, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?” As Christians, we should always conform to the changes or adaptabilities we embrace with God’s Word.

As days pass, technology advances, more knowledge is being acquired, and we should look for and embrace new ways that the Lord God has for us to serve Him and carry out His Kingdom work here on earth. In all things, we should hold the Bible as our standard of living as we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us into All Truth about Glorifying God. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ says in John 16:13 – “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” In conformity to the instructions from the Lord God Almighty which we have as Scripture, we should develop the ability to change so as to fit a new specific use or situation.

Biblical Facts About Adjusting To Change

Can we change God’s Word to fit today? No. In fact, Scripture teaches that God’s Word doesn’t change and it is never outdated. Matthew 24:35 says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Likewise, 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Today, many say the way moral issues are looked at must change. That would mean changing God’s Word to fit the changing world. Is this reasonable? No, because man does not have the authority to change the will of God on any subject. Thus, we can’t change God’s Word to make it fit us. Scripture gives severe warnings on several occasions about trying to make changes to God’s Word. According to Galatians 1:6-9, perverting the Gospel by changing it will accurse us.

Unlike humans, God never changes, and nothing about Him changes: His character traits such as Love, Compassion, Kindness, Goodness, Mercy, Wisdom, and Justice always exist in perfection. While the methods God used to deal with human beings have evolved and changed through the centuries, the core values and purposes behind those methods have not changed. For example, under the Mosaic Covenant, God described that animals sacrificed in the manner He prescribed would atone for sins (Leviticus 4:23; 9:2–13; Numbers 29:11). Under the New Covenant, the Son of God Himself became the sacrifice, and the old system, having served its purpose, became obsolete (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:11–14). While God’s Holiness, His wrath against Sin, and His extension of mercy did not change, He did provide us a better sacrifice: the Perfect Lamb of God (John 1:29; Hebrews 10:10). This change secures Eternal Life for those who believe in Christ (John 3:16–18).

Facts About Innovation From The Bible

Innovation is well understood as the ability to yield to a transformation in order to obtain or achieve something or a certain goal. In other words, it is the necessary capacity to assume various alterations related to the routines to which we are accustomed, not offering resistance and accepting to do things differently if circumstances so determine. Can a person grow the skills of adapting to change? Amazingly, yes. The ability to adapt to change is a skill that we can develop and perfect at all times. Below are some Biblical facts about adaptability from the Bible:

1) Innovation is an Influential and Prerequisite Quality for Ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – “For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the Gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.”

1 Corinthians 10:33 – “Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.”

2) We are to Correspondingly Adjust to Changes in Situations and Conditions

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the Heaven.”

Matthew 9:14,15 – “Then came to Him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but Thy disciples fast not? 15 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the Bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the Bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.”

Luke 9:3 – “And He said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.”

Luke 22:35-36 – “And He said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. Then said He unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.”

3) Jesus Christ Demonstrated Innovation in that being the Son of God He became the Son of Man

John 1:14a – “And the Word [Jesus] was made flesh, and dwelt among us.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

1 Timothy 3:16 – “And without controversy great is the mystery of Godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”

4) Innovation Requires Living above Circumstances and Conditions

Philippians 4:11-13 – “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

1 Corinthians 4:9-13 – “For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings. We are fools for Christ, but you are so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are honored, we are dishonored! To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment.

5) Innovation has to do with being Open and Willing to do things God’s Way

Hebrews 6:3 – “And this will we do, if God permit.”

James 4:13-15 – “Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”

Acts 18:21 – “But as he left, he promised, “I will come back if it is God’s will.” Then he set sail from Ephesus.

6) Innovation means Being Willing to be Fashioned or Refashioned for God’s Glory

Isaiah 64:8 – “But now, O Lord, Thou art our Father; we are the clay, and Thou our Potter; and we all are the work of Thy hand.”

Jeremiah 18:4 – “And the vessel that he [the potter] made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.”

Romans 9:20-21 – “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, Why hast Thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

Philippians 2:13 – “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.”

7) Innovation Requires Yielding One’s Mind and Will to God and His Plans

Romans 12:1-2 – “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Romans 6:13 – “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

2 Corinthians 8:12 – “For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”

1 Samuel 3:18b – “It is the Lord: let Him do what seemeth Him good.

Matthew 6:10b – “Thy [God’s] will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.”

Matthew 26:39 – “And He went a little further, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.”

Luke 1:38b – “Be it unto me according to Thy Word.

8) Innovation Requires Humility

Matthew 3:13-15 – “Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 13:8-9 – “Peter saith unto Him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with Me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.

9) Innovation Requires Conformity to God’s Word

John 6:36-40 – “But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.

10) Innovation Requires Prayers and the Guidance of the Holy Spirit

1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing,

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

John 15:7 – “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

Mark 11:24 – “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Adaptation And Evolution – Does the Bible account allow for living things to change over time?

Does the Bible account allow for living things to change over time? Yes, Biblical account allows for living things to change over time. Remember that the Bible says that the Lord God Almighty created living things “according to their kinds” (Genesis 1). Can variation occur within a kind? Yes, variation can occur within a kind. However, does observed adaptation within a kind actually prove that new kinds can evolve? No, adaptation cannot lead to a situation whereby new kinds are evolved. Notice that while adaptation may help species survive under changing environmental and climatic circumstances, it’s not creating anything new on Earth. Exodus 20:11 says, “For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity?

Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

Exodus 35:31-33 – “and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts.

Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Psalm 104:24 – “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”

Romans 1:20 – “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Mark 2:21-22 – “No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.”

Group 1 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

1 John 2:24 – “Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father.”

Galatians 1:8 – “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.”

John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

1 Corinthians 9:19 – “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.”

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”

Group 2 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

John 13:34 – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”

John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

2 Peter 1:20-21 – “Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

John 17:1-26 – “When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed. …

Group 3 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Colossians 1:5 – “Because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel,

Colossians 1:6 – “Which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and growing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth,

Galatians 1:4 – “Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,”

1 Thessalonians 2:13 – “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.”

1 Peter 1:1-25 – “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ...”

Group 4 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

James 1:18 – “Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

Hebrews 3:7 – “Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice,

Hebrews 2:13And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.”

1 Peter 1:11 – “Inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories.”

Hebrews 2:14 – “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil,”

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”

Jeremiah 8:9 – “The wise men shall be put to shame; they shall be dismayed and taken; behold, they have rejected the word of the Lord, so what wisdom is in them?

Group 5 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

2 Timothy 3:13 – “While evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

Hebrews 2:10 – “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.

2 Timothy 2:9 – “For which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound!

1 Timothy 4:6 – “If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.”

1 John 5:13 – “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.

1 Peter 2:1 – “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.”

1 Peter 2:2 – “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—

1 Peter 1:23 – “Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God;

Group 6 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

2 Timothy 2:8 – “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel,

2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 – “And to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might,”

Colossians 3:4 – “When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

Philippians 2:16 – “Holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

Philippians 1:6 – “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.”

Philippians 1:21 – “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Group 7 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Ephesians 2:2 – “In which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—

Ephesians 2:5 – “Even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—

Galatians 5:17 – “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.”

Ephesians 1:20 – “That he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,

Galatians 3:16 – “Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ.

Galatians 3:26 – “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.”

2 Corinthians 3:3 – “And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

1 John 1:1 – “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—

Group 8 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Romans 15:30 – “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,”

1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:”

1 Corinthians 1:20 – “Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?

Romans 15:30 – “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

Galatians 3:6Just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”?

1 Corinthians 15:27 – “For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him.”

2 Corinthians 3:3 – “And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

1 Corinthians 8:2 – “If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.

Group 9 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Romans 8:10 – “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness.”

1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”

Romans 5:17 – “For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.

Romans 8:2 – “For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.

John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

Romans 1:20 – “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”

John 14:11 – “Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.”

John 1:13 – “Who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”

Matthew 28:20 – “Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Group 10 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

John 9:39Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”

John 1:4 – “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.”

Matthew 17:2 – “And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.

Matthew 22:32 – “‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”

Zechariah 12:10 – “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.

Daniel 9:1-27 – “In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, by descent a Mede, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans— in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, perceived in the books the number of years that, according to the word of the Lord to Jeremiah the prophet, must pass before the end of the desolations of Jerusalem, namely, seventy years. Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. …

Group 11 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Matthew 4:1 – “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

Matthew 3:11 – “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Joel 2:1-32 – “Blow a trumpet in Zion; sound an alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming; it is near, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness! Like blackness there is spread upon the mountains a great and powerful people; their like has never been before, nor will be again after them through the years of all generations. Fire devours before them, and behind them a flame burns. …

Habakkuk 2:4 – “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.”

Ezekiel 37:1-10 – “The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord and set me down in the middle of the valley; it was full of bones. And he led me around among them, and behold, there were very many on the surface of the valley, and behold, they were very dry. And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God, you know.” Then he said to me, “Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. …

Group 12 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Jeremiah 2:13 – “For my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.”

Isaiah 55:11 – “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

Isaiah 53:10 – “Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.

Jeremiah 15:16 – “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts.”

Isaiah 61:1-3 – “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

Group 13 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Revelation 2:23 – “And I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.

1 John 5:11 – “And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”

1 John 3:3 – “And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

Genesis 1:1-31 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. …

Psalm 89:36 – “His offspring shall endure forever, his throne as long as the sun before me.”

Psalm 119:11 – “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

Genesis 3:15 – “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.

Psalm 89:4 – “‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.’” Selah

Psalm 89:3 – “You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant:

Group 14 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”

Psalm 1:2 – “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.

Psalm 2:8-9 – “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.”

Revelation 22:17 – “The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.”

Revelation 1:18 – “And the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”

1 John 5:10 – “Whoever believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. Whoever does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne concerning his Son.”

1 Corinthians 15:47 – “The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven.”

1 John 2:12 – “I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.”

Group 15 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

1 John 3:2 – “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

2 Timothy 2:24 – “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil,

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Isaiah 53:11 – “Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.

Proverbs 9:6-9 – “Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.” Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

Group 16 – What Does The Bible Say About Art And Creativity

Philippians 2:15 – “That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,”

2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Also Read

What Does The Bible Say About Creativity?

What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

What Does The Bible Say About Creativity? Behold, the Bible says a lot about innovation, creativity, and change. In the Bible, we clearly see innovation both in God’s creation and in His “new creation” in Christ. Innovation simply means “doing new things,” or “doing old things in a new way.” According to the Biblical creation story in Genesis 1, in the beginning “the earth was formless and desolate.” The Lord God created light and the first day. Reading through the rest of the chapter, we see how the Lord God created variety, order, and beauty. Amazingly, the Lord God created people in His own image. Outstanding as God’s masterpiece in creation, human beings could “walk and talk” (Genesis 3:8-10). Sadly, people’s relationship with God was broken as a result of disobedience, and a new order came into establishment. The Lord God’s purposes and plans for humanity remained the same.

From the beginning of the world, God’s plans for mankind have not changed. The Old Testament is the story of mankind’s disobedience, unfaithfulness, and occasional repentance. Notice that the Law given to Moses did not keep or make people holy, so the Lord God revealed a new way to win mankind.
Jeremiah 31:31-33 says, “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the LORD. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

What Does The Bible Say About Creativity?

As Christians, we believe that we have forgiveness for our sins through what the Lord God has done for humanity in Jesus Christ. Going through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we see how Jesus’ life and teaching offer us a new life and way to fellowship with God (2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 4:23-24, Colossians 3:8-10, 1 Peter 2:2). As a matter of fact, the Lord God is a creator and an innovator. In the Biblical book of Revelation 21:5, it is written: And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Let’s praise the Lord God Almighty whose mercies are new every morning and who reassures us of our place in the new creation. We are all made in the Lord God’s image, and several people display great creativity.

As Christians, we can acknowledge that change is part of life, and as such welcome new ideas from people within our communities. Most times, young people have a lot of innovative or new ideas. And as such, older people should create opportunities to discuss these and help youths to develop responses to the challenges that will come their way in the later part of life. However, not all new ideas are good ideas, and as such, it is important to seek advice and test new ideas. Doing this will reassure each other that the changes which come about are consistent with the Lord God’s unchangeable purposes for humanity and the establishment of His Kingdom.

Biblical Facts About Creativity

There are a lot of things that the Bible says about creativity. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Brethren, notice that creativity comes from God because He is the Creator. Whether you are a designer, musician, seamstress, or something else, we all have some level of creativity since we are all made in the image of the Lord God Almighty, Father of Creation. In support:
Romans 1:20 says, “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.”
Psalm 104:24 says, “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Exodus 35:31-33 says, “and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts.”

Biblical Facts About Change

The Lord God Almighty, His Word, and the Good News of the Gospel are unchanging, the same today, yesterday, and forever. However, we must “embrace” flexibility to change. We must adapt, adjust, and change. Scripture instructs us to be transformed and changed into the likeness and image of Christ. The Lord instructs us in Romans 12:2, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Likewise, the Lord God says in Isiah 43:19, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?” As Christians, we should always conform to the changes or adaptabilities we embrace with God’s Word.

As days pass, technology advances, more knowledge is being acquired, and we should look for and embrace new ways that the Lord God has for us to serve Him and carry out His Kingdom work here on earth. In all things, we should hold the Bible as our standard of living as we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us into All Truth about Glorifying God. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ says in John 16:13 – “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” In conformity to the instructions from the Lord God Almighty which we have as Scripture, we should develop the ability to change so as to fit a new specific use or situation.

Biblical Facts About Adjusting To Change

Can we change God’s Word to fit today? No. In fact, Scripture teaches that God’s Word doesn’t change and it is never outdated. Matthew 24:35 says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Likewise, 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Today, many say the way moral issues are looked at must change. That would mean changing God’s Word to fit the changing world. Is this reasonable? No, because man does not have the authority to change the will of God on any subject. Thus, we can’t change God’s Word to make it fit us. Scripture gives severe warnings on several occasions about trying to make changes to God’s Word. According to Galatians 1:6-9, perverting the Gospel by changing it will accurse us.

Unlike humans, God never changes, and nothing about Him changes: His character traits such as Love, Compassion, Kindness, Goodness, Mercy, Wisdom, and Justice always exist in perfection. While the methods God used to deal with human beings have evolved and changed through the centuries, the core values and purposes behind those methods have not changed. For example, under the Mosaic Covenant, God described that animals sacrificed in the manner He prescribed would atone for sins (Leviticus 4:23; 9:2–13; Numbers 29:11). Under the New Covenant, the Son of God Himself became the sacrifice, and the old system, having served its purpose, became obsolete (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:11–14). While God’s Holiness, His wrath against Sin, and His extension of mercy did not change, He did provide us a better sacrifice: the Perfect Lamb of God (John 1:29; Hebrews 10:10). This change secures Eternal Life for those who believe in Christ (John 3:16–18).

Facts About Innovation From The Bible

Innovation is well understood as the ability to yield to a transformation in order to obtain or achieve something or a certain goal. In other words, it is the necessary capacity to assume various alterations related to the routines to which we are accustomed, not offering resistance and accepting to do things differently if circumstances so determine. Can a person grow the skills of adapting to change? Amazingly, yes. The ability to adapt to change is a skill that we can develop and perfect at all times. Below are some Biblical facts about adaptability from the Bible:

1) Innovation is an Influential and Prerequisite Quality for Ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – “For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the Gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.”

1 Corinthians 10:33 – “Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.”

2) We are to Correspondingly Adjust to Changes in Situations and Conditions

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the Heaven.”

Matthew 9:14,15 – “Then came to Him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but Thy disciples fast not? 15 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the Bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the Bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.”

Luke 9:3 – “And He said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.”

Luke 22:35-36 – “And He said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. Then said He unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.”

3) Jesus Christ Demonstrated Innovation in that being the Son of God He became the Son of Man

John 1:14a – “And the Word [Jesus] was made flesh, and dwelt among us.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

1 Timothy 3:16 – “And without controversy great is the mystery of Godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”

4) Innovation Requires Living above Circumstances and Conditions

Philippians 4:11-13 – “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

1 Corinthians 4:9-13 – “For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings. We are fools for Christ, but you are so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are honored, we are dishonored! To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment.

5) Innovation has to do with being Open and Willing to do things God’s Way

Hebrews 6:3 – “And this will we do, if God permit.”

James 4:13-15 – “Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”

Acts 18:21 – “But as he left, he promised, “I will come back if it is God’s will.” Then he set sail from Ephesus.

6) Innovation means Being Willing to be Fashioned or Refashioned for God’s Glory

Isaiah 64:8 – “But now, O Lord, Thou art our Father; we are the clay, and Thou our Potter; and we all are the work of Thy hand.”

Jeremiah 18:4 – “And the vessel that he [the potter] made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.”

Romans 9:20-21 – “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, Why hast Thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

Philippians 2:13 – “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.”

7) Innovation Requires Yielding One’s Mind and Will to God and His Plans

Romans 12:1-2 – “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Romans 6:13 – “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

2 Corinthians 8:12 – “For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”

1 Samuel 3:18b – “It is the Lord: let Him do what seemeth Him good.

Matthew 6:10b – “Thy [God’s] will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.”

Matthew 26:39 – “And He went a little further, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.”

Luke 1:38b – “Be it unto me according to Thy Word.

8) Innovation Requires Humility

Matthew 3:13-15 – “Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 13:8-9 – “Peter saith unto Him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with Me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.

9) Innovation Requires Conformity to God’s Word

John 6:36-40 – “But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.

10) Innovation Requires Prayers and the Guidance of the Holy Spirit

1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing,

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

John 15:7 – “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

Mark 11:24 – “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Adaptation And Evolution – Does the Bible account allow for living things to change over time?

Does the Bible account allow for living things to change over time? Yes, Biblical account allows for living things to change over time. Remember that the Bible says that the Lord God Almighty created living things “according to their kinds” (Genesis 1). Can variation occur within a kind? Yes, variation can occur within a kind. However, does observed adaptation within a kind actually prove that new kinds can evolve? No, adaptation cannot lead to a situation whereby new kinds are evolved. Notice that while adaptation may help species survive under changing environmental and climatic circumstances, it’s not creating anything new on Earth. Exodus 20:11 says, “For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

What Does The Bible Say About Creativity?

Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

Exodus 35:31-33 – “and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts.

Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Psalm 104:24 – “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”

Romans 1:20 – “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Mark 2:21-22 – “No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.”

Group 1 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

1 John 2:24 – “Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father.”

Galatians 1:8 – “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.”

John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

1 Corinthians 9:19 – “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.”

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”

Group 2 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

John 13:34 – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”

John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

2 Peter 1:20-21 – “Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

John 17:1-26 – “When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed. …

Group 3 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Colossians 1:5 – “Because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel,

Colossians 1:6 – “Which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and growing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth,

Galatians 1:4 – “Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,”

1 Thessalonians 2:13 – “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.”

1 Peter 1:1-25 – “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ...”

Group 4 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

James 1:18 – “Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

Hebrews 3:7 – “Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice,

Hebrews 2:13And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.”

1 Peter 1:11 – “Inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories.”

Hebrews 2:14 – “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil,”

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”

Jeremiah 8:9 – “The wise men shall be put to shame; they shall be dismayed and taken; behold, they have rejected the word of the Lord, so what wisdom is in them?

Group 5 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

2 Timothy 3:13 – “While evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

Hebrews 2:10 – “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.

2 Timothy 2:9 – “For which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound!

1 Timothy 4:6 – “If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.”

1 John 5:13 – “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.

1 Peter 2:1 – “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.”

1 Peter 2:2 – “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—

1 Peter 1:23 – “Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God;

Group 6 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

Philippians 2:16 – “Holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

Philippians 1:6 – “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.”

Philippians 1:21 – “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

2 Timothy 2:8 – “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel,

2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 – “And to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might,”

Colossians 3:4 – “When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Group 7 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Ephesians 2:2 – “In which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—

Ephesians 2:5 – “Even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—

Galatians 5:17 – “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.”

Ephesians 1:20 – “That he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,

Galatians 3:16 – “Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ.

Galatians 3:26 – “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.”

2 Corinthians 3:3 – “And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

1 John 1:1 – “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—

Group 8 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Galatians 3:6Just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”?

1 Corinthians 15:27 – “For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him.”

2 Corinthians 3:3 – “And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

1 Corinthians 8:2 – “If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.

Romans 15:30 – “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,”

1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:”

1 Corinthians 1:20 – “Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?

Romans 15:30 – “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

Group 9 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Romans 8:10 – “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness.”

1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”

Romans 5:17 – “For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.

Romans 8:2 – “For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.

John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

Romans 1:20 – “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”

John 14:11 – “Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.”

John 1:13 – “Who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”

Matthew 28:20 – “Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Group 10 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

John 9:39Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”

John 1:4 – “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.”

Matthew 17:2 – “And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.

Matthew 22:32 – “‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”

Zechariah 12:10 – “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.

Daniel 9:1-27 – “In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, by descent a Mede, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans— in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, perceived in the books the number of years that, according to the word of the Lord to Jeremiah the prophet, must pass before the end of the desolations of Jerusalem, namely, seventy years. Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. …

Group 11 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Habakkuk 2:4 – “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.”

Ezekiel 37:1-10 – “The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord and set me down in the middle of the valley; it was full of bones. And he led me around among them, and behold, there were very many on the surface of the valley, and behold, they were very dry. And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God, you know.” Then he said to me, “Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. …

Matthew 4:1 – “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

Matthew 3:11 – “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Joel 2:1-32 – “Blow a trumpet in Zion; sound an alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming; it is near, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness! Like blackness there is spread upon the mountains a great and powerful people; their like has never been before, nor will be again after them through the years of all generations. Fire devours before them, and behind them a flame burns. …

Group 12 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Jeremiah 2:13 – “For my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.”

Isaiah 55:11 – “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

Isaiah 53:10 – “Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.

Jeremiah 15:16 – “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts.”

Isaiah 61:1-3 – “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

Group 13 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Revelation 2:23 – “And I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.

1 John 5:11 – “And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”

1 John 3:3 – “And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

Genesis 1:1-31 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. …

Psalm 89:36 – “His offspring shall endure forever, his throne as long as the sun before me.”

Psalm 119:11 – “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

Genesis 3:15 – “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.

Psalm 89:4 – “‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.’” Selah

Psalm 89:3 – “You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant:

Group 14 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

Revelation 1:18 – “And the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”

1 John 5:10 – “Whoever believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. Whoever does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne concerning his Son.”

1 Corinthians 15:47 – “The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven.”

1 John 2:12 – “I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.”

Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”

Psalm 1:2 – “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.

Psalm 2:8-9 – “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.”

Revelation 22:17 – “The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.”

Group 15 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

1 John 3:2 – “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

2 Timothy 2:24 – “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil,

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Isaiah 53:11 – “Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.

Proverbs 9:6-9 – “Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.” Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

Group 16 – What Does The Bible Say About Creativity

2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Philippians 2:15 – “That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,”

2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Also Read

Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Discover Creativity And Innovation In The Bible. Behold, the Bible says a lot about innovation, creativity, and change. In the Bible, we clearly see innovation both in God’s creation and in His “new creation” in Christ. Innovation simply means “doing new things,” or “doing old things in a new way.” According to the Biblical creation story in Genesis 1, in the beginning “the earth was formless and desolate.” The Lord God created light and the first day. Reading through the rest of the chapter, we see how the Lord God created variety, order, and beauty. Amazingly, the Lord God created people in His own image. Outstanding as God’s masterpiece in creation, human beings could “walk and talk” (Genesis 3:8-10). Sadly, people’s relationship with God was broken as a result of disobedience, and a new order came into establishment. The Lord God’s purposes and plans for humanity remained the same.

From the beginning of the world, God’s plans for mankind have not changed. The Old Testament is the story of mankind’s disobedience, unfaithfulness, and occasional repentance. Notice that the Law given to Moses did not keep or make people holy, so the Lord God revealed a new way to win mankind.
Jeremiah 31:31-33 says, “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the LORD. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

As Christians, we believe that we have forgiveness for our sins through what the Lord God has done for humanity in Jesus Christ. Going through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we see how Jesus’ life and teaching offer us a new life and way to fellowship with God (2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 4:23-24, Colossians 3:8-10, 1 Peter 2:2). As a matter of fact, the Lord God is a creator and an innovator. In the Biblical book of Revelation 21:5, it is written: And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Let’s praise the Lord God Almighty whose mercies are new every morning and who reassures us of our place in the new creation. We are all made in the Lord God’s image, and several people display great creativity.

As Christians, we can acknowledge that change is part of life, and as such welcome new ideas from people within our communities. Most times, young people have a lot of innovative or new ideas. And as such, older people should create opportunities to discuss these and help youths to develop responses to the challenges that will come their way in the later part of life. However, not all new ideas are good ideas, and as such, it is important to seek advice and test new ideas. Doing this will reassure each other that the changes which come about are consistent with the Lord God’s unchangeable purposes for humanity and the establishment of His Kingdom.

Biblical Facts About Creativity

There are a lot of things that the Bible says about creativity. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Brethren, notice that creativity comes from God because He is the Creator. Whether you are a designer, musician, seamstress, or something else, we all have some level of creativity since we are all made in the image of the Lord God Almighty, Father of Creation. In support:
Romans 1:20 says, “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.”
Psalm 104:24 says, “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Exodus 35:31-33 says, “and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts.”

Biblical Facts About Change

The Lord God Almighty, His Word, and the Good News of the Gospel are unchanging, the same today, yesterday, and forever. However, we must “embrace” flexibility to change. We must adapt, adjust, and change. Scripture instructs us to be transformed and changed into the likeness and image of Christ. The Lord instructs us in Romans 12:2, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Likewise, the Lord God says in Isiah 43:19, “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?” As Christians, we should always conform to the changes or adaptabilities we embrace with God’s Word.

As days pass, technology advances, more knowledge is being acquired, and we should look for and embrace new ways that the Lord God has for us to serve Him and carry out His Kingdom work here on earth. In all things, we should hold the Bible as our standard of living as we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us into All Truth about Glorifying God. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ says in John 16:13 – “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” In conformity to the instructions from the Lord God Almighty which we have as Scripture, we should develop the ability to change so as to fit a new specific use or situation.

Biblical Facts About Adjusting To Change

Can we change God’s Word to fit today? No. In fact, Scripture teaches that God’s Word doesn’t change and it is never outdated. Matthew 24:35 says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Likewise, 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Today, many say the way moral issues are looked at must change. That would mean changing God’s Word to fit the changing world. Is this reasonable? No, because man does not have the authority to change the will of God on any subject. Thus, we can’t change God’s Word to make it fit us. Scripture gives severe warnings on several occasions about trying to make changes to God’s Word. According to Galatians 1:6-9, perverting the Gospel by changing it will accurse us.

Unlike humans, God never changes, and nothing about Him changes: His character traits such as Love, Compassion, Kindness, Goodness, Mercy, Wisdom, and Justice always exist in perfection. While the methods God used to deal with human beings have evolved and changed through the centuries, the core values and purposes behind those methods have not changed. For example, under the Mosaic Covenant, God described that animals sacrificed in the manner He prescribed would atone for sins (Leviticus 4:23; 9:2–13; Numbers 29:11). Under the New Covenant, the Son of God Himself became the sacrifice, and the old system, having served its purpose, became obsolete (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:11–14). While God’s Holiness, His wrath against Sin, and His extension of mercy did not change, He did provide us a better sacrifice: the Perfect Lamb of God (John 1:29; Hebrews 10:10). This change secures Eternal Life for those who believe in Christ (John 3:16–18).

Facts About Innovation From The Bible

Innovation is well understood as the ability to yield to a transformation in order to obtain or achieve something or a certain goal. In other words, it is the necessary capacity to assume various alterations related to the routines to which we are accustomed, not offering resistance and accepting to do things differently if circumstances so determine. Can a person grow the skills of adapting to change? Amazingly, yes. The ability to adapt to change is a skill that we can develop and perfect at all times. Below are some Biblical facts about adaptability from the Bible:

1) Innovation is an Influential and Prerequisite Quality for Ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – “For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. And this I do for the Gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.”

1 Corinthians 10:33 – “Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.”

2) We are to Correspondingly Adjust to Changes in Situations and Conditions

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the Heaven.”

Matthew 9:14,15 – “Then came to Him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but Thy disciples fast not? 15 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the Bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the Bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.”

Luke 9:3 – “And He said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.”

Luke 22:35-36 – “And He said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. Then said He unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.”

3) Jesus Christ Demonstrated Innovation in that being the Son of God He became the Son of Man

John 1:14a – “And the Word [Jesus] was made flesh, and dwelt among us.”

Philippians 2:5-8 – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

1 Timothy 3:16 – “And without controversy great is the mystery of Godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”

4) Innovation Requires Living above Circumstances and Conditions

Philippians 4:11-13 – “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

1 Corinthians 4:9-13 – “For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings. We are fools for Christ, but you are so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are honored, we are dishonored! To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment.

5) Innovation has to do with being Open and Willing to do things God’s Way

Hebrews 6:3 – “And this will we do, if God permit.”

James 4:13-15 – “Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”

Acts 18:21 – “But as he left, he promised, “I will come back if it is God’s will.” Then he set sail from Ephesus.

6) Innovation means Being Willing to be Fashioned or Refashioned for God’s Glory

Isaiah 64:8 – “But now, O Lord, Thou art our Father; we are the clay, and Thou our Potter; and we all are the work of Thy hand.”

Jeremiah 18:4 – “And the vessel that he [the potter] made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.”

Romans 9:20-21 – “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, Why hast Thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

Philippians 2:13 – “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.”

7) Innovation Requires Yielding One’s Mind and Will to God and His Plans

Romans 12:1-2 – “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Romans 6:13 – “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

2 Corinthians 8:12 – “For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”

1 Samuel 3:18b – “It is the Lord: let Him do what seemeth Him good.

Matthew 6:10b – “Thy [God’s] will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.”

Matthew 26:39 – “And He went a little further, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.”

Luke 1:38b – “Be it unto me according to Thy Word.

8) Innovation Requires Humility

Matthew 3:13-15 – “Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.

John 3:30 – “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 13:8-9 – “Peter saith unto Him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with Me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.

9) Innovation Requires Conformity to God’s Word

John 6:36-40 – “But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe. All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.

10) Innovation Requires Prayers and the Guidance of the Holy Spirit

1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing,

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

John 15:7 – “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

Mark 11:24 – “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Adaptation And Evolution – Does the Bible account allow for living things to change over time?

Does the Bible account allow for living things to change over time? Yes, Biblical account allows for living things to change over time. Remember that the Bible says that the Lord God Almighty created living things “according to their kinds” (Genesis 1). Can variation occur within a kind? Yes, variation can occur within a kind. However, does observed adaptation within a kind actually prove that new kinds can evolve? No, adaptation cannot lead to a situation whereby new kinds are evolved. Notice that while adaptation may help species survive under changing environmental and climatic circumstances, it’s not creating anything new on Earth. Exodus 20:11 says, “For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

Exodus 35:31-33 – “and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts.

Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Psalm 104:24 – “O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.”

Romans 1:20 – “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Mark 2:21-22 – “No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.”

Group 1 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

1 John 2:24 – “Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father.”

Galatians 1:8 – “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.”

John 14:26 – “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”

1 Corinthians 9:19 – “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.”

1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”

Group 2 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

John 17:1-26 – “When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed. …

John 13:34 – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”

John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

2 Peter 1:20-21 – “Knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

Group 3 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Colossians 1:5 – “Because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel,

Colossians 1:6 – “Which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and growing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth,

Galatians 1:4 – “Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,”

1 Thessalonians 2:13 – “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.”

1 Peter 1:1-25 – “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ...”

Group 4 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”

Jeremiah 8:9 – “The wise men shall be put to shame; they shall be dismayed and taken; behold, they have rejected the word of the Lord, so what wisdom is in them?

James 1:18 – “Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

Hebrews 3:7 – “Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice,

Hebrews 2:13And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.”

1 Peter 1:11 – “Inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories.”

Hebrews 2:14 – “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil,”

Group 5 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

2 Timothy 3:13 – “While evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.”

Hebrews 2:10 – “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.

2 Timothy 2:9 – “For which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound!

1 Timothy 4:6 – “If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.”

1 John 5:13 – “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.

1 Peter 2:1 – “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.”

1 Peter 2:2 – “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—

1 Peter 1:23 – “Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God;

Group 6 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

Philippians 2:16 – “Holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.

Philippians 1:6 – “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”

Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.”

Philippians 1:21 – “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

2 Timothy 2:8 – “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel,

2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 – “And to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might,”

Colossians 3:4 – “When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Group 7 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Ephesians 1:20 – “That he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,

Galatians 3:16 – “Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ.

Galatians 3:26 – “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.”

2 Corinthians 3:3 – “And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

1 John 1:1 – “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—

Ephesians 2:2 – “In which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—

Ephesians 2:5 – “Even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—

Galatians 5:17 – “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.”

Group 8 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Romans 15:30 – “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,”

1 Corinthians 1:2 – “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:”

1 Corinthians 1:20 – “Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?

Romans 15:30 – “I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

Galatians 3:6Just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”?

1 Corinthians 15:27 – “For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him.”

2 Corinthians 3:3 – “And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

1 Corinthians 8:2 – “If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.

Group 9 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

Romans 1:20 – “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”

John 14:11 – “Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.”

John 1:13 – “Who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”

Matthew 28:20 – “Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Romans 8:10 – “But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness.”

1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”

Romans 5:17 – “For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.

Romans 8:2 – “For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.

Group 10 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

John 9:39Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”

John 1:4 – “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.”

Matthew 17:2 – “And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.

Matthew 22:32 – “‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”

Zechariah 12:10 – “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.

Daniel 9:1-27 – “In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, by descent a Mede, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans— in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, perceived in the books the number of years that, according to the word of the Lord to Jeremiah the prophet, must pass before the end of the desolations of Jerusalem, namely, seventy years. Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. …

Group 11 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Habakkuk 2:4 – “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.”

Ezekiel 37:1-10 – “The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord and set me down in the middle of the valley; it was full of bones. And he led me around among them, and behold, there were very many on the surface of the valley, and behold, they were very dry. And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God, you know.” Then he said to me, “Prophesy over these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. …

Matthew 4:1 – “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.

Matthew 3:11 – “I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

Joel 2:1-32 – “Blow a trumpet in Zion; sound an alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming; it is near, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness! Like blackness there is spread upon the mountains a great and powerful people; their like has never been before, nor will be again after them through the years of all generations. Fire devours before them, and behind them a flame burns. …

Group 12 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Jeremiah 2:13 – “For my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.”

Isaiah 55:11 – “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

Isaiah 53:10 – “Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.

Jeremiah 15:16 – “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts.”

Isaiah 61:1-3 – “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

Group 13 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Psalm 89:36 – “His offspring shall endure forever, his throne as long as the sun before me.”

Psalm 119:11 – “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

Genesis 3:15 – “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.

Psalm 89:4 – “‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.’” Selah

Psalm 89:3 – “You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant:

Revelation 2:23 – “And I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works.

1 John 5:11 – “And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”

1 John 3:3 – “And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

Genesis 1:1-31 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. …

Group 14 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”

Psalm 1:2 – “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.

Psalm 2:8-9 – “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.”

Revelation 22:17 – “The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.”

Revelation 1:18 – “And the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”

1 John 5:10 – “Whoever believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. Whoever does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne concerning his Son.”

1 Corinthians 15:47 – “The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven.”

1 John 2:12 – “I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.”

Group 15 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

1 John 3:2 – “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

2 Timothy 2:24 – “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil,

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Isaiah 53:11 – “Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.

Proverbs 9:6-9 – “Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.” Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

Group 16 – Creativity And Innovation In The Bible

2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

2 Corinthians 3:18 – “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Philippians 2:15 – “That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,”

2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

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