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4.2 – Equipping and Training for Mission
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This is such a good biblical leadership example. There are many skilled communicators who can captivate an audience, but it is essential – and I would suggest more important – that they also have integrity of heart and love for the people. It is important to continually look for ways in which we can grow and develop as leaders, both the "integrity of heart" aspect and "skilled hands" as well. Platforms such as ECO, EPIC and mentorship opportunities within the local church are examples of ways that we can develop both.
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I think these are still important today – if you have all the knowledge in the world but are missing the love and heart of Christ, you will miss leading people to the saviour. Adversely, if you have lots of heart for shepherding people and loving them like Christ, but do not have the skills or knowledge to lead well, you will hit a ceiling in how you can disciple. Both are important for the work of the ministry.
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Shepherding with integrity of heart means that relationship with God comes first and foremost. Its so easy in the business and expectations off ministry to become tasks first and ministry second. Make relationship with Jesus the number one priority and everything else falls in line below that. Leading with skilled hands is about faithfully learning and honing what we do. I believe this looks like preparation, intention, reflection, and adjustment. Firstly, we need to know what God wants us to do, which comes from shepherding with integrity of heart. From there we learn by through those who have come before us and through our own trial and error how to prepare for ministry, how to set goals, how to measure our execution/results and how to adjust according to what our observations have shown us. I see intentionally building skill as being like the good servant who invests his talents.
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These highlight both the required competency of character and in practical skills. This shows us that we need both of them to be effective ministers in the world. You can be the best person around, but if you can’t preach its going to be hard to pastor effectively! You may be an incredible speaker, teacher, or worship leader, but if you don’t have character or hte fruit of the spirit then it isn’t going to matter!
I appreciate how much ACOP is working to have focuses on both the internal and external parts of the pastor or minister
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