The Character of a Leader- Set Apart

 

This is Chuck Rapp with Multiply, a podcast to provide a word of encouragement for village church planters.

As we continue to discuss the character traits of good, godly leaders, in this message I want to call our attention to the necessity of a godly lifestyle that demonstrates a life set apart for the Lord’s service.  

In the New English Translation, 2 Timothy 2:19-22 instructs us that “…God’s solid foundation remains standing, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from evil.”  Now in a wealthy home there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also ones made of wood and of clay, and some are for honorable use, but others for ignoble use. So, if someone cleanses himself of such behavior, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart, useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. But keep away from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faithfulness, love, and peace, in company with others who call on the Lord from a pure heart.”

Godly leaders aspire to be vessels for honorable use, human receptacles who are useful for our Master, the Lord Jesus.  In this passage he urges us to not only “keep away” from bad habits and behaviors but to also pursue characteristics that align with the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).  You see, holy living is not about legalism and simply adhering to a set of restrictions.  While there are things that we are to avoid, it’s also exemplified by many positive attitudes and behaviors.  

The Apostle Paul’s instructions to Timothy are very similar to what he wrote to the Ephesian church.  In Ephesians 4:22-24, he instructs believers to “put off” their old self and “put on” the new self.  This putting off and putting on are a cooperative effort between us and God.  We make the decision to submit to Him, and He gives us the power to change through the Holy Spirit who is living within us.  We cannot do this in our own power or will; however, by obedience to the Word of God and to the voice (usually a whisper) of the Holy Spirit, we can live lives that are “set apart” for his service.    

Let us be leaders, men and women whose lives are set apart for service to the Lord.  As we commit ourselves in this way, we will realize the promise of 2 Chronicles 16:9a (NIV). “For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”  May we be fully committed to Him.  

This has been a word of encouragement for Village Church Planters.