Looking at Christ

Philippians 2:22 has been one of my favourite verses for a long time but every time I go back there or hear others speak on this passage I see new things. Leadership development - the goal I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.  Paul has 'no one else like him'. Timothy is exceptional. It's ok to say that. Yes, all believers are on exactly the same level in respect to justification and status but there are differences in spiritual maturity and ability in gospel ministry. Paul says, 'I have no one else like him.' He is Paul's co-worker, yoked together with him. And Paul massively values him.  Why? What is so exceptional about Timothy? What does Paul value so highly about him? He loves the church. He has a 'genuine concern for your welfare.' He is a people person. He really wants to do you good. He exemplifies what Paul was speaking about earlier...

  Acts 18:24-26 gives a window into leadership mentoring, a window into an important biblical theme, and perhaps a window into the intended audience and use of Luke-Acts. Mentoring Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, able in the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in [the] spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John. (Acts 18:24-25) There is a lot of potential here. He knows his Bible He’s been catechised in the way of Christ He is fervent – literally boiling – passionate, fearless, committed, all in  H e does a good job of teaching people Jesus That is a hugely promising profile. That’s the sort of profile of knowledge, heart and ministry instinct we need to be looking for to encourage into church leadership. He's not previously know to the disciples in Ephesus. He's just arrived from northern Africa. But he...