Leading with Competence
13-minute read
Table Of Contents
Introduction
In this sermon titled “Leading with Competence,” the preacher draws from the life of Ezra to show how God calls His people to bring about spiritual restoration in today’s world. Just as Ezra brought spiritual revival to Israel after their return from exile, believers today are called to bring light and truth to a world lost in darkness. The message emphasizes that true competence in serving God begins with knowing, living, and sharing His Word—the Gospel of the water and the Spirit that reveals God’s righteousness through Jesus Christ.
Study the Word
Ezra “set his heart to study the law of the Lord” (Ezra 7:10).
Believers must deliberately devote time to studying God’s Word because it is the source of spiritual life and nourishment. Just as physical food sustains the body, God’s Word sustains the spirit. Through diligent study, we become equipped to serve and discern truth from deception in a world filled with false teachings.
Studying Scripture is not merely for ministry—it is daily bread for the soul. When we prioritize God’s Word, we experience His provision, for “those who seek first His kingdom and righteousness” lack nothing. Studying the Word also helps us clearly understand and proclaim the gospel of the water and the Spirit—the truth that Jesus took away our sins through His baptism, died on the cross and rose again to give us a new life in Him.
Live the Word
Ezra not only studied the Word but lived it. The preacher reminds believers that hearing without doing leads to self-deception (James 1:22). Obedience to God’s Word requires humility and submission to the Holy Spirit. Genuine humility is not achieved through fleshly effort but by walking in the Spirit.
When we live out the truth of the Gospel, we reveal Christ’s character—His gentleness, meekness, and obedience to the Father. True competence as God’s servant flows from a humble heart that remains teachable even with deep knowledge of Scripture.
Share the Word
Ezra also taught the Word to others, leading Israel’s spiritual restoration. Likewise, Christians are called to share the Gospel clearly and competently. Evangelism requires not only passion but also understanding. The Holy Spirit empowers and reminds us of Jesus’ words, but He works through the truth already stored in our hearts.
When we share, we must do so with grace and gentleness—our words seasoned with salt, making the truth impactful and life-giving. Competent believers are ready “in season and out of season” to testify of the hope found in Christ.
Conclusion
Like Ezra, we are God’s chosen instruments to bring spiritual restoration to this generation. To lead with competence, we must study the Word, live the Word, and share the Word. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers who embrace the Gospel of the water and the Spirit can become effective witnesses—bringing renewal, truth, and life to a world that desperately needs the righteousness of God revealed through Jesus Christ.
13-minute read
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