Marks of a Faithful Leader
15-minute read
Table Of Contents
Introduction
This sermon, “Marks of a Faithful Leader,” brings the month’s focus on faithfulness to a close, reminding believers that every born-again child of God—having received the Holy Spirit—is called to lead through the Spirit’s power. True faithfulness does not come from our flesh, which is corrupted by sin, but from the Holy Spirit who indwells those who have been born again through the gospel of the water and the Spirit. The message draws from 2 Timothy 1:1–7, where the Apostle Paul encourages Timothy to rise up in faith and overcome fear through the power of God’s Spirit.
Be an Encourager
Paul, writing from prison, expressed gratitude and prayers for Timothy, calling him to overcome fear and doubt. A faithful leader must strengthen others through prayer, empathy, and encouragement. Just as Paul prayed for Timothy continually, we too must build up others in faith—reminding them that God’s Spirit within them enables them to serve His righteousness. Encouragement rooted in the gospel empowers believers to persevere in advancing the work of God.
Be an Appreciator
Paul reminded Timothy of the genuine faith that once burned strongly within him—first seen in his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. Faithfulness includes appreciating and affirming the good work God has already done in others. As those born of the water and the Spirit, we must remember and appreciate those who have nurtured our faith, whether spiritual mentors or the church family. Gratitude and appreciation rekindle faith and unity in the body of Christ.
Be an Exhibitor
Paul urged Timothy to stir up the gift of God within him—to fan into flame the spiritual gifts given through the Holy Spirit. Every believer has been empowered by the Spirit to serve the gospel, not through human effort but divine enablement. A faithful leader must exhibit the work of the Spirit in action—walking closely with God, studying His Word, and allowing His power to flow through every act of service. Spiritual leadership is not about performance but about surrendering to God’s guidance and strength.
Be an Adherer
Finally, Paul reminded Timothy that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Faithful leaders must continually rely on the Holy Spirit, not their own strength. To adhere means to cling, lean, and depend entirely on the Spirit’s guidance in every decision. This dependence enables us to remain steadfast amid trials and to preserve the pure gospel of the water and the Spirit—the only gospel that reveals God’s righteousness and brings true salvation.
Conclusion
Faithful leadership is not measured by outward success but by one’s dependence on the Holy Spirit. As believers, we are called to encourage, appreciate, exhibit, and adhere—to walk by the Spirit and serve the gospel of the water and the Spirit faithfully. God’s calling is not for a select few; every born-again believer is empowered to lead and serve His righteousness. Let us rise up as faithful leaders—empowered by His Spirit, grounded in His Word, and devoted to His gospel.
15-minute read
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