DATE: 4–27-25

As always it’s a joy to be with all of you this weekend at Gateway Church. And there’s one thing I want you to know — and this is true if you’re worshiping with us for the first time — if you’re joining us at our North Main Campus or are with our friends in Bucyrus — I want you to know that God loves you and that I love you too.

INTRODUCTION

After a short break for Easter — we’re returning to our series in Romans this weekend — taking a look at the spiritual gifts that Paul mentions so we all understand what these gifts are and how they’re to be used in our faith family. The purpose of the spiritual gifts is something I’ve reminded us of many times before: Spiritual gifts are abilities given to individual believers by the Holy Spirit in order to equip God’s people for ministry, both for the edification of the church and for God’s salvific mission to the world. – Lexham Survey of Theology

Here’s what Paul says about the gifts — in Romans chapter twelve — beginning in verse four. 

Romans 12:4–8 ESV

4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

We started off by taking two weeks to explore the gift of prophecy. Then we looked at the gifts of service, teaching, and exhortation. And — just before Holy Week — we looked at the gift of giving. Which means that — today — we’re going to look at the spiritual gift of leadership, which Paul mentions next in his list where he writes…

Romans 12:8 ESV

8 the one who leads, with zeal;

WHAT IS THE GIFT OF LEADERSHIP?

So let’s begin by answering the question, “What is the gift of leadership?” The definition of this gift that I shared with you a few weeks ago is…

Leadership

The gift of leadership is the divine strength or ability to influence people at their level while directing and focusing them on the big picture, vision, or idea.

Now — in the original language of Greek — the word that we translate as “leads” — similar to other gifts we’ve looked at — has both a general application in Scripture — meaning — regardless if you have the gift there’s some “leading” that God expects you to do — and — the word also has specific uses that would appear to be for those who have this spiritual gift. Let’s briefly look at the general application — ways that leading applies to all who follow Jesus.

Paul — who wrote Romans — wrote many of the letters in the New Testament. One of his letters was to a man named Titus who was pastoring on the island of Crete. After reminding Titus of the ways sin had control over us — before we had faith in Jesus — Paul writes…

Titus 3:4–8 ESV

4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people.

A few verses later — Paul writes…

Titus 3:14 ESV

14 And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.

Now — you probably noticed that you didn’t hear me say the word “lead” anywhere in those verses. That’s because a different English word was used to convey a similar idea: the word “devote”. So here’s the general principle: Because of all that Christ has done for his people — in saving us not by our works — but by his perfect work — those who believe in him are to devote themselves — or lead themselves — to do good works — which Paul repeats a few verses later.

So again — in a very general sense — all Christians are leaders because — at the very least — we’re to be leading ourselves in living a life that’s a proper response to all that Christ has done for us. We’re not to live life on auto-pilot. We’re not to be passive and “let go and let God.” We’re to be actively engaged in putting our faith into practice. For that’s what it means to follow Jesus — we follow the One who intentionally and actively lived his life in love for us and calls us to intentionally and actively live our lives in love for him in return.

Here’s another general application for all of us — even those who don’t have this spiritual gift. To the Christians living in Thessalonica, Paul writes…

1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 ESV

12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work.

Another case where we don’t explicitly see the word “lead” but the same Greek word is used — but here it’s translated as “over”. So the general application here is to respect those who are over us — those who lead us. We’re to hold them in high regard because — in leading us — they’re displaying care for us — even when they admonish or warn us.

For many years — and it’s still a bit of a struggle for me today — allowing others to hold me in high regard was hard. I don’t like attention. I prefer to disappear in a crowd. But this is an area that God has — and continues to — grow me in. Especially to not dismiss or prevent you from obeying this biblical principle. So — thank you for your patience with me. And I’m still gonna be awkward — when you hold me in high regard — but hopefully less awkward than I once was.

One last general application — still Paul — but this time we’re looking at his letter to Timothy who’s pastoring the church in Ephesus. Paul writes…

1 Timothy 5:17–18 ESV

17 Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer deserves his wages.”

The word “rule” is the same Greek word as “lead” in Romans. Here — similar to what we just read — the application for all of us is to honor those who lead us. For those who rule — or lead — well — and this is specifically referring to leading in the church — should be considered worthy of double honor — a reference to the financial pay they receive — as made evident by Paul quoting something Jesus said in Luke chapter 10.

So to recap: All Christians are to — one — lead themselves in doing good works in response to being saved by Jesus — two — respect and hold in high regard those who lead us and — three — honor those who lead by taking care of them financially.

THE GIFT OF LEADERSHIP IN SCRIPTURE: DEBORAH

Now let’s look at a few potential examples of this spiritual gift at work in Scripture. We’re going to look at two passages from the Old Testament. First, we’ll look at a woman named Deborah. This is her story as found in Judges chapter 4.

Judges 4:1–10 NLT

1 After Ehud’s death, the Israelites again did evil in the Lord’s sight. 2 So the Lord turned them over to King Jabin of Hazor, a Canaanite king. The commander of his army was Sisera, who lived in Harosheth-haggoyim. 3 Sisera, who had 900 iron chariots, ruthlessly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years. Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for help. 4 Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet who was judging Israel at that time. 5 She would sit under the Palm of Deborah, between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites would go to her for judgment. 6 One day she sent for Barak son of Abinoam, who lived in Kedesh in the land of Naphtali. She said to him, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: Call out 10,000 warriors from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun at Mount Tabor. 7 And I will call out Sisera, commander of Jabin’s army, along with his chariots and warriors, to the Kishon River. There I will give you victory over him.” 8 Barak told her, “I will go, but only if you go with me.” 9 “Very well,” she replied, “I will go with you. But you will receive no honor in this venture, for the Lord’s victory over Sisera will be at the hands of a woman.” So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh. 10 At Kedesh, Barak called together the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali, and 10,000 warriors went up with him. Deborah also went with him.

So Deborah goes with Barak into battle. And things happen just as Deborah said they would. At one point in the battle she has to urge Barak on with the words…

Judges 4:14 NLT

14 “Get ready! This is the day the Lord will give you victory over Sisera, for the Lord is marching ahead of you.” So Barak led his 10,000 warriors down the slopes of Mount Tabor into battle.

Being in a position of authority doesn’t mean someone’s a leader — that’s one lesson we learn. Barak’s a cowardly man in a leadership position — while Deborah — who definitely had the spiritual gift of prophecy — and likely leadership as well — led Barak — and his army — into a victorious battle.

I bring up Deborah as an example to make it clear that — though we’re a church that holds a complementarian view of the office of elder — that’s a fancy theological word that means we believe that the office of elder is reserved for men only — though we’re complementarian — we do believe that women are empowered by the Holy Spirit with the gift of leadership. And we need women — who are empowered by the Spirit in this way — to use their gift of leadership for our good as a congregation.

Now — you may wonder, “Why are you complementarian? If you believe that women can be empowered with the gift of leadership why don’t you allow them to serve as elders — the highest office of leadership in the church?” Here are two reasons why but — for more information — I suggest grabbing a copy of the booklet on leadership that’s available at your campus resource center.

Why don’t we allow women to be elders at Gateway — and I know that our friends in Bucyrus hold a different position — so feel free to put me on mute for the next minute or so. And — by the way — this is one of the characteristics of the EPC — our denomination — that I so appreciate. That churches can hold different views on this topic and not go their separate ways. Because — no matter our view on this topic — we all hold a high regard for Scripture — its authority, sufficiency, inerrancy, and so on — yet come to different interpretive conclusions.

So back to why Gateway doesn’t have female elders — I’ll give two reasons. First, nowhere in the New Testament do we see a woman referred to as an elder in a local church. Though the reason why we have female deacons is because we do see Phoebe — in Romans 16 — referred to as a deacon.

Second — and most compellingly — Jesus chose twelve men to be his apostles who originally held the highest office of leadership in the church. Some argue that Jesus chose only men because he was a man of his time — and rabbis didn’t pick women to be their followers. This argument always baffles me because…Jesus was not a man of his time! Jesus allowed women to financially fund his ministry, allowed a woman who was a prostitute to wash his feet — which was scandalous — had no problem having a private conversation with a Samaritan woman — just as equally scandalous — and so on. Jesus did not conform to the cultural expectations when it came to his relationship with women. Yet he only chose men to be his apostles — something we have to seriously consider when thinking through this topic.

But — here at Gateway — we honor women. We encourage women who have the spiritual gift of leadership to use their gift for God’s glory and our good — as we do our best to apply what we see in the New Testament when it comes to who God calls to the highest office in the church.

And — if you don’t know — on staff — three of our six departments — worship, connect, serve, go, next gen, and business/ops — three of the six departments are led by women — Lindsay, Kristi, and Ashely. And — our executive director — “the boss” as we like to say — is as well — Laura — who’s heart is filled with joy every time I call her the boss. I kid. You see — we believe that God gifts women with the gift of leadership for our good — as we hold a complementarian view of the office of elder.

THE GIFT OF LEADERSHIP IN SCRIPTURE: MOSES

Now let’s look at a moment from the life of Moses. As you may be aware, Moses was called by God to lead the Israelites out of their enslavement in Egypt. But — if you know their story — the people left Egypt only to become a grumbling, complaining, distrusting in God’s ability to provide for them — kind of people. And — a people like this — end up with all kinds of disputes, disagreements, and arguments among themselves. And Moses — because he was the leader — found himself being the judge for all of the disputes, disagreements, and arguments going on among the — wait for it — few million Israelites! Talk about a never-ending, exhausting job for Moses. 

Thus — in one of the few positive in-law stories in known history — I kid — Moses’ father-in-law — a man named Jethro — has an idea. This is what we read in Exodus chapter 18.

Exodus 18:13–27 NLT

13 The next day, Moses took his seat to hear the people’s disputes against each other. They waited before him from morning till evening. 14 When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he asked, “What are you really accomplishing here? Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?” 15 Moses replied, “Because the people come to me to get a ruling from God. 16 When a dispute arises, they come to me, and I am the one who settles the case between the quarreling parties. I inform the people of God’s decrees and give them his instructions.” 17 “This is not good!” Moses’ father-in-law exclaimed. 18 “You’re going to wear yourself out—and the people, too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself. 19 Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice, and may God be with you. You should continue to be the people’s representative before God, bringing their disputes to him. 20 Teach them God’s decrees, and give them his instructions. Show them how to conduct their lives. 21 But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten. 22 They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes, but have them bring the major cases to you. Let the leaders decide the smaller matters themselves. They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you. 23 If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.” 24 Moses listened to his father-in-law’s advice and followed his suggestions. 25 He chose capable men from all over Israel and appointed them as leaders over the people. He put them in charge of groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten. 26 These men were always available to solve the people’s common disputes. They brought the major cases to Moses, but they took care of the smaller matters themselves. 27 Soon after this, Moses said good-bye to his father-in-law, who returned to his own land.

Moses was wearing himself out by not delegating leadership to others. He apparently mistook God’s calling on him to lead the people to mean that he alone was to do all the leading. And God has never intended leadership to be an individual endeavor — and Jethro understood this. So he gave his son-in-law some good, godly advice. Using language we find throughout the Bible — about the kinds of characteristics we’re to look for in those who lead in the church — Jethro tells Moses to select some capable, honest men who fear God and have integrity and appoint them as leaders over groups of various sizes. Because — again — one man — Moses — can’t do all the leading. And he’s not the only one gifted to lead. For the Spirit of God uses many to lead the people of God.

But notice the structure and hierarchy. Some are gifted to lead ten people. Others fifty. Others a hundred. Others a thousand. The leader of ten isn’t less significant than the leader of a thousand — both are needed! Just ask people who are in the group of ten if the one who leads them is important. But — at the same time — those being led have to understand that structure and hierarchy are needed because one man can’t handle the responsibility and time it takes to lead and care for every single individual when a group — apparently — gets bigger than around ten people. We’ll see how this plays itself out at Gateway in a moment.

THE GIFT OF LEADERSHIP IN THE CHURCH

But this story in Exodus — is very similar to what we read about those who led the church in the New Testament. For example, to Timothy Paul writes…

1 Timothy 3:1–13 ESV

1 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil. 8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

We’ve looked at these verses in previous sermons on the spiritual gifts — but we return to them now looking at the importance of the spiritual gift of leadership among those who are in positions of authority in the local church. Both elders and deacons are to be good managers of their homes. Manager is the same word translated as lead in Romans — so managing in your homes — or leading in your homes — is a prerequisite for leading in the church.

And selecting capable individuals — who have the character to match — reminds me of how the church chose the first deacons.

Acts 6:1–7 ESV

1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.

Did you notice the similarities in the situation Moses found himself in and the apostles situation here in Acts? And how a similar solution is agreed upon? I bring this up to remind us of the different leadership roles in our church, what they do, and how we all benefit when each of these groups are leading in the way God has gifted and called them to lead. Again — you can read more about this in the booklet on leadership that’s available at your campus resource center.

But here at Gateway — we’re blessed with a group of faithful men and women who serve in leadership. There are the elders — men who spiritually protect and shepherd the congregation. There’s the staff — whose role is to equip, train, and resource the members of Gateway to do the work of ministry. And there are our deacons — our lead servants. The elders, staff, and deacons all have a leadership role to play in our church.

Let’s begin with elders. Elders spiritually protect and shepherd the congregation. The way we elders describe our role is in a vision statement we have for ourselves. 

Our primary responsibility, as elders, is to represent the mind of Christ as we spiritually lead Gateway Church. We’re to collectively discern his will for Gateway in all our decisions. Additionally, we’re called to be men who…

1) study, learn, and teach the Word of God,

2) shepherd the sick, lonely, elderly, and those in need,

3) disciple the children and adults of the church and seek after those who become inactive,

4) guard against dangers to the faith and life of those under our care,

5) warn, admonish, and reclaim those who stray and, when necessary, enact church discipline,

6) and seek out and raise up new leaders within the church.

We didn’t come up with this on our own — this is what our church constitution — what’s called the Book of Order — tells us is our role as your elders. 

The elders — collectively — represent the mind of Christ for this church. 

Together — we seek Christ’s vision for what we’re to be doing. 

This isn’t a one man at the top of the org chart kind of team — the vision and direction of Gateway isn’t any one person’s responsibility or authority — it’s the responsibility of the elders together. 

As is the teaching of God’s Word, and the shepherding of the people — that’s why we’ve divided our members into shepherding groups — and the discipleship of the next generation, and the guarding against false doctrines, and the disciplining of those who are ensnared by sin, as is the raising up the next generation of church leadership. 

What about the church staff? The church staff are to equip, train, and resource the church members to do the work of ministry. The staff’s primary role is not to do the ministry work, but to serve the church members by resourcing and equipping them — making sure church members have what they need to do the ministry work of the church. 

Now we turn to the deacons. The deacons are our lead servants. They assist the staff and elders to make sure the ministry work — that the staff has equipped the congregation to do — gets done. Deacons are key in both freeing up the elders — so we can focus on our role of shepherding and protecting — while also freeing up the staff so they’re able to equip, train, and resource the church members to do the ministry work of the church. 

But there’s one more important leadership role in our church — our Life Group leaders. Those who lead a small group of people — helping them spiritually grow and follow Jesus more faithfully — so they love God and each other more passionately.

CONCLUSION

And when elders are fulfilling their leadership role, and staff theirs, and deacons theirs, and Life Group leaders theirs — and when we all see the beauty of having leaders responsible for tens, and fifties, and hundreds, and thousands — we’ll all be better served and cared for and led by those the Spirit has empowered with the gift of leadership. We’ll feel the intimacy of being led by our Life Group leaders — of course we’ll need to be in a Life Group to experience this leadership — and — as we serve we’ll be led by the staff — of course we’ll need to be serving to experience this leadership — and we’ll be shepherded by our elder — of course we’ll need to be a member to be part of a shepherding group — some gentle reminders that the care that we often desire comes by means of submitting to those who serve in a leadership role in the church.

That’s how care and discipleship work at Gateway — it can’t really work any other way. Which takes us back to where we began — and those general principles of leadership that we saw earlier. How each of us is responsible to lead ourselves — to devote ourselves to good works — including the good work of being a fully engaged member of the local church that we’re part of. Worshipping, connecting, serving, and going are what you hear us say around here a lot. And how each of us is responsible for growing as a follower of Jesus who’s a Word and Spirit Christian, who’s generous and Kingdom-minded, who makes disciples, and who makes it clear that they’re a member of this faith family.

If you’re in leadership — whatever your role may be — thank you for leading. Thank you for allowing the Spirit of God to empower and use you for our good. And to those of you who — your only leadership responsibility is that of leading yourself well — thank you for doing so. And may we all grow in our thankfulness to God for the leaders he’s appointed over us. Let’s pray.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank you for the way you lead your people. You lead us through your Word — the Bible — where you tell us what to do, how to live, and what to believe. You lead us through those you’ve called to serve in roles within the church. And you lead us through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit, thank you for empowering many with the gift of leadership. For those you’ve called to lead thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens — all are needed for us to be the church you’ve called us to be. Empower more — we ask — for the glory of our great Savior and for our good.

And — Jesus — we thank you for not abandoning us when you ascended to Heaven — but you called men and women to be the leaders of your church. And you — with your Father — sent the Holy Spirit to empower these leaders. Jesus — as we follow you as a church — may we follow you faithfully in whatever role we’ve been called to. For then we’ll grow in our spiritual maturity — and will care well for one another — and be a church that sees even more lives changed by the good news of the gospel. And we pray all of this in your name. Amen.

BENEDICTION (Prayer teams available // Leadership booklet)

May you go grateful to God for those he’s called and gifted to lead his church. Amen.

God loves you. I love you. You are sent.

Date: November 21, 2019

Questions

Over the past sermon series, are you saying that once we accept Jesus in our hearts, we “exist” in heaven? Can you clarify this thought – does the Bible say that we have our bodies here on earth (surrounded by sin) but that we are simultaneously existing/celebrating in heaven (free from sin)? I’m confused. (8:10)

I’ve been told in this particular EPC church, leadership roles for women are limited to music, children and women. Growing up Catholic, I’m comfortable with that format. However, I felt compelled to come forward & pray for you [Sunday evening], but when only men walked to the mic, I questioned my “place” to do that and was intimidated to lead others in that setting. Would that have been appropriate? (11:20)

Pastor Craig made some good points like “be silent,“ “be quiet,“ and even about the meaning in Hebrew “shut up!” But we are also taught to “pray continually.“ Please advise us on how we achieve the proper balance of talking and listening. Is there scripture for this, too? (20:45)

When praying, are we called to continually pray for the same thing? (An example being the salvation of a parent or friend.) Or, as we come to the throne of Christ in prayer, do we let our words be few and trust that God has heard us? Repetition of the same request or a heartfelt one time request? (27:20)

Pastor Josh, as you struggle with being introverted, your church family shows empathy; as some of your church family struggles with praying out loud, we ask for your empathy. (28:10)

Josh mentioned the need to sing at a worship service. Are Christians required to sing? Is it a sin not to sing? As someone who is quieter by nature, I typically listen rather than singing. I’ve always been quieter than my friends at services and the loud contemporary music makes it difficult for me to rest and focus on God. A related question is do we have to “do a lot” on Sunday to really worship: sing, pray, talk, serve? I do a lot of Christian acts of service Saturdays, and I enjoy resting from doing a lot at a weekend service. And is worship always doing and acting? (38:15)

Date: 8/11/2020

Questions

1. I had a friend tell me that she didn’t want to go to church because she didn’t want her daughter to grow up somewhere where she couldn’t be a leader if she wanted to. How would I go about responding to this?
   1. Complementarian vs Egalitarian
   2. Laura’s experience. 

2. What does it mean to “suffer” for God? The Bible seems to use this word having multiple meanings that can be interpreted in both positive and painful ways.
   1. Theologically and practically
      1. Theologically, being in Christ, his suffering is our suffering. We will never suffer for our sins.
      2. Practically:
         1. Acts 5:40-42 — (background: Peter and the apostles had just been arrested and put in jail; miraculously rescued; then beaten) “they summoned the apostles and had them beaten. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus and released them. 41 So they left the council rejoicing because they had been considered worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name. 42 And every day both in the temple courts and from house to house, they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus was the Christ.”
         2. Hebrews 10:32-36 and 11 — “But remember the former days when you endured a harsh conflict of suffering after you were enlightened. 33 At times you were publicly exposed to abuse and afflictions, and at other times you came to share with others who were treated in that way. 34 For in fact you shared the sufferings of those in prison, and you accepted the confiscation of your belongings with joy, because you knew that you certainly had a better and lasting possession. 35 So do not throw away your confidence, because it has great reward. 36 For you need endurance in order to do God’s will and so receive what is promised.”

3. As saved Christians we have eternal security. In Revelation it tells us if we take the mark of the Beast we will be eternally damned. Will God protect us from taking the mark of the Beast or will we already be Raptured?
   1. It’s not just about receiving the mark (whatever that means), but about worshipping the beast (instead of worshipping God). Who or what we worship is ultimately what eternally saves or eternally condemns us.

Date: 3/10/2021

Scott Manor sermon / Knox follow up questions

1. Help me understand how a laity certificate (which costs $9,000) will help me do what is being taught from the pulpit this weekend.
   1. Sermons are needed, but not sufficient in and of themselves.
   2. Like most things in life, investment comes with a cost.
   3. When a Christian at Gateway knows their Bible better, Gateway is going to be a better church.
   4. I’m excited that I’ve already filled out a pastoral reference for folks who are wanting to know their Bible better through a seminary education.

2. How do you see Colossians 3:23 fitting with the message/sermon this week?
   1. Colossians 3:23 (NLT) – Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.
   2. Ephesians and Colossians were written at the same time. Have a lot of similarities.
   3. I think Colossians 3:23 reiterates what Scott was emphasizing in his sermon on Ephesians 4 — Pastors/teachers (church leaders) equip the saints to do the work of ministry (and to do so as if you are working for the Lord).

3. Is choosing to not engage in a specific ministry the same sinfulness as choosing to not serve in any ministry?
   1. Serving is a biblical expectation for the people of God. So, to not do so, would be disobedience.
   2. But if you’re serving in one area, say the nursery, but not serving on the worship team…that doesn’t mean you’re sinning.

4. I struggle with ego in the role of my service. What/how should we differentiate service we are doing for God’s purposes instead of our own egos?
   1. Pride’s a killer when it comes to serving for the glory of God as it makes our service done for the glory of self.
   2. Ask others for input in your life and service.
   3. Are you serving only in areas where your good works are seen by others?
   4. Are you serving out of love for God and others or out of love for yourself?

Questions

1. Do you plan to do a study on the book of Revelation? I’d be interested in how Josh landed on an amillennial view. What do you view as the top “trouble verse” for each position and how do you get most comfortable with the a-mill view?
   1. I’m memorizing Revelation right now, but not planning to preach through it any time soon.
   2. I did mention to Scott Manor that a class that includes Revelation would be well attended, so that’s something pastor Robert should be looking into.
   3. How’d I land amillennial? Episode 47 we talked about this.
      1. I read 3-4 books on each of the different millennial views (dispensational pre-mil; historic pre-mil; post-mil; a-mill).
      2. I found parts in all of the views that I agreed with as one would hope if these views are using the Bible.
      3. The question I asked was, “Which of the views has the least significant biblical problem” in my mind?
         1. Meaning, all of these views have Bible verses that you can ask, “But what do you do about….?” The Bible isn’t a systematic theology. It’s not as clean as systematic theology wants to be (neat little categories). The Bible has paradox and mystery which don’t work well in systematic theology.
         2. Based on me answering the question, the amillennial view had the least biblical “what about” questions so it seems to be most consistent with the Bible overall (even though it has its issues). 
         3. Historic pre-mil came in a close second though. Post-mil a distant third. And dispensational pre-mil — think the Left Behind series — I found to be the least biblically consistent of all the views. Unfortunately, it was used in a popular fiction series that sold like crazy influencing folks more than their Bible when it comes to their view of end times.
      4. Troubling verses/issues for each:
         1. Dispensational pre-mil — the whole system of doctrine is troubling to me; doesn’t seem to interpret the Bible consistently; Daniel parenthesis
         2. Post-mil — doesn’t seem to take into account verses that talk about how bad things will get near the end.
         3. Historic pre-mil — “All” (Romans 11; Revelation 19); Is Christ the true Israel, seed of Abraham, etc…?; is Satan not bound right now (Rev 20)?
         4. Amil — End of Isaiah; 
   4. Word of caution to all of us:
      1. I get quite a few questions about different teachers and/or books about End Times stuff.
      2. Be very careful with books that interpret the United States or current events back into Revelation.
      3. Exegesis vs Eisegesis
         1. Exegesis — what does the text say? What did the author mean? What did the original recipients/audience understand the text to mean?
         2. Eisegesis — what do I want this text to say? What does this passage mean to me?
         3. Eisegesis examples:
            1. Doing a Bible study, and asking the group, “So what does this passage mean to you?”
            2. In our nation’s history, people used the Bible to approve slavery.
            3. Today, people use the Bible to approve of sexual sins. “Homosexuality is different, in the Bible, than what we mean today.”
            4. And interpreting Revelation, and other End Times passages, with the US as a key figure.
            5. The original meaning of the author is true for all generations (the last 2,000 years of Christianity). And to those who believe the meaning has changed, did previous generations of Christians lack something central/important to our faith? This isn’t a matter of “could God reveal something new to us today” this is a matter of “why would God withhold this new revelation/interpretation from previous generations? And what might he be withholding from us?” 
         4. So we must ask, “What did John mean when he wrote Revelation?” He had a meaning. A point. A “this is what I mean” and the Spirit was guiding him.
         5. Once we know what the original author meant (exegesis), then we can turn to “how does this apply to us today” kind of questions. But we can’t let application questions become “What does this mean to us today” — in the sense — that we ignore what the text meant to the original author and audience.
      4. So these authors/teachers/books should drive you to your Bible. Search what the biblical authors meant and then, like the Bereans in the book of Acts, investigate the claims of the teachers/authors/books with the Bible. The Bible is the filter for what is being said, not these other books being the filter for what the Bible is saying.

2. How can I explain to friends and family how God intending for men to be pastors instead of women is not an anti-women viewpoint?
   1. We’ve covered this on other podcast episodes as well.
   2. You may not be able to do so if they’re caught up in secular thinking.
   3. Ultimately the question is who has the final authority? God or us?
   4. Do we submit to his Word and his order of creation or are we at the top of the food chain and even God must submit to our thoughts/opinions and order of things?
   5. What’s the offense in God creating men to be pastors and not women?

3. Does the “Prosperity Gospel” have a wrong “gospel” and should we not use music from Hillsong, Bethel and Elevation because they are part of the “word of Faith/ Prosperity” movement. I’ve heard some pretty scathing critiques and negative testimonials about these churches on Youtube. It’s hard to know what sources to trust.
   1. Yes, the prosperity gospel is a wrong or false gospel.
   2. Word of faith/prosperity movement is pretty tricky. It’s not like there’s a denomination or club that people all sign up for membership in. So it can become subjective as to who should be included in these groups.
   3. Youtube critiques — there’s one about Gateway on Youtube — supposedly we worship Baal — or at least Gateway did when Ben was pastor according to the video.
   4. Music from churches
      1. What do the lyrics say? Are they biblical? Gospel oriented? 
      2. Paul quotes unbelievers in his letters because the quote contained truth.

4. I have been reading in Hebrews 11 recently, and love personal questions. So, can each of you share about someone in your life that speaks to you by their example of faith? Please share, whether past or present, but specifically someone you have known, and identify how their faith has encouraged you.
   1. Josh – Karl House (podcast interviews)

5. Will Pastor Josh please play jazz saxophone for the 100th episode? Just the intro music! If not, you should have Jared do it. Something tells me that guy has a natural talent for jazz saxophone 🙂 

Final Thought: Josh 

• When one person at Gateway begins to know their Bible better the whole congregation is getting better.
• Keep reading, studying, and memorizing the Bible.
• Let God’s Word be the authority in your life and God’s Spirit will empower you to be faithful men and women who follow Jesus.

Date: 09/07/2022

Questions

The book of Hebrews starts by laying out the case that Jesus is better than angels. This teaching would have countered the worship of angels above Jesus, but has it also caused us to downplay the importance of the role angels and the spirit world play in our lives?

1. I think we have a misunderstanding regarding angels, not primarily because of the Hebrews passage, but because we’re just not clear on what the Bible actually teaches about them. 
2. There’s a quote that says, “Christians are so heavenly minded they’re of no earthly good.” The problem is that many of the people who’ve done the most earthly good — establishing hospitals, orphanages, clean water, tackled malnutrition, and so on — have been the most heavenly minded people.
3. Similarly, I don’t think anyone can be so Jesus minded that other parts of our theology and faith are downgraded (like angels). In fact, the more Jesus minded you are the more all of your theology gets elevated. But for those who get wrapped up in secondary theological issues — raising them up as really really important — often their Jesus-mindedness wanes.
4. Now that I’ve said my bit and am off my soapbox, what does Scripture say about angels?
   1. Angels are messengers. Both in the Old and New Testament we see this as their primary role.
      1. In Genesis, angels appear to Abraham to give him the message about what’s going to happen to Sodom and Gomorrah.
      2. In Matthew an angel appears to Joseph telling him to not abandon Mary. In Luke, an angel appears to Mary.
   2. The Angel of the LORD is prominent in the Old Testament. Often this angel has divine-like qualities. Some interpret the Angel of the Lord to be prefigures of Christ before his incarnation.
      1. Example in Genesis 16:7-13 ESV. After Hagar was sent away by Sarah, “The angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, the spring on the way to Shur. 8 And he said, “Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from and where are you going?” She said, “I am fleeing from my mistress Sarai.” 9 The angel of the Lord said to her, “Return to your mistress and submit to her.” 10 The angel of the Lord also said to her, “I will surely multiply your offspring so that they cannot be numbered for multitude.” 11 And the angel of the Lord said to her, “Behold, you are pregnant and shall bear a son. You shall call his name Ishmael, because the Lord has listened to your affliction. 12 He shall be a wild donkey of a man, his hand against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he shall dwell over against all his kinsmen.” 13 So she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, “You are a God of seeing,” for she said, “Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.”” 
   3. Satan and demons are fallen angels.
      1. In Job Satan appears in the heavenly realms with the other angels.
      2. He’s called the “prince of the power of the air” in Ephesians (which is angelic language).
      3. In Revelation 2 and 3 (mentioned next), the seven churches have seven stars and angels. In chapter 12, Satan is said to have swept a third of the stars out of the sky (stars meaning angels that are now demons).
      4. Jude 1:6 — And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day.
   4. The seven churches in Revelation all have an angel associated with them. This is descriptive — not prescriptive — so we’d be going too far if we suggest that every local church has an angel associated with it.
   5. We’re not to worship angels. Colossians 2:18; Revelation 1
   6. Regarding guardian angels — there’s not much in Scripture to defend the usual idea of guardian angels.
      1. Hebrews 1:14 — Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?
      2. Daniel 12:1 — At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book.
      3. Hebrews 13:2 — Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
      4. Matthew 18:10 — “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.
      5. Psalm 91:11 — For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. (Satan quotes this verse to Jesus as he tempts him. So we know how this verse is fulfilled — in Christ; not us.)

In Pastor Robert’s sermon on 6/26/22 on 2 Timothy 2:1-19, he said that the word for men in verse 2 indicates both men and women (which I agree with – anthropos in the Greek refers to all humankind), and because of that, both men and women are responsible for spreading the gospel. In light of that, why does Gateway hold the stance that women should not preach from the pulpit? Is that not spreading the gospel, which both men and women are commanded to do per this passage (and many others)?

1. Since the question asker brings up the Greek language, let’s dive in and see how the original language answers their question. 
2. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul tells Timothy to “entrust to faithful men (and women) who will be able to teach others. The Greek word — translated in English as “teach” — is found 97 times in the New Testament. Never once is it translated as “preach” in English. Only once — in the ESV — is the Greek word not directly translated as “teach/taught/teaching/etc…” and that’s when it’s translated as “directed” in a verse that has nothing to do with preaching. 
3. Additionally, there is another Greek word that we translate as “preach” in English. In fact, in 2 Timothy — the book Pastor Robert preached from — Paul uses this Greek word in the well-known verse “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” (2 Timothy 4:2 ESV) And — notice — that the word “teaching” is in the same verse as a different Greek word translated as preach. And this is the same Greek word translated as teach in chapter 2. So what does this all mean? Well it shows us that Paul means something different between teaching and preaching.
4. I bring all of this up because the questioner’s point seems to be  “If 2 Timothy 2:2 tells us that men and women are to teach…then why don’t we allow women to preach from the pulpit?” Because teaching and preaching are two different ministries in the church. Are they both ways in which the gospel is spread? Absolutely! So the good news is that men and women — who are both responsible for spreading the gospel — can do so in many ways without limiting ourselves to preaching being the only way this is fulfilled. 

How do we reconcile or respond to moral failures or alleged moral failures of a church or church leadership? For instance, the Hillsong Church founders and some of its pastors have been accused of abusing members. But does that mean we should boycott the worship songs of the Hillsong band? An investigation into the SBC found that SBC leaders abused women and children but covered it up. Does that mean we abandon resources published by Lifeway, the publishing arm of the SBC? If we took the boycott approach, we would eventually boycott everything. And it “punishes” these individuals or groups that may have no influence or knowledge of the abusive behavior conducted by others in their organization.

1. On a similar topic, this question came in: Let me preface by saying I just finished the Rise and Fall of Mars Hill podcast which got me wondering how Gateway protects itself from something similar: a dominant lead pastor that eventually becomes almost like a dictator to the detriment of the church?
   1. In what ways is there oversight and accountability for Pastor Josh?
   2. What is the process for major decisions to be made and who leads those discussions or who has the final say in decision making? (Example: should we go down to 1 service vs 2? Should we be a multi-site church or not?)
   3. When there is disagreement in direction between elders, how does it get resolved? Can you share any examples?
   4. What is the staff’s level of authority vs. elders/deacons?
   5. Who sets the vision for the church and what does that process look like?
   6. One of the big problems with Mars Hill and its leadership seemed to be pride. Could Pastor Josh maybe show some vulnerability and talk about any areas or sin in his life today that he wrestles with? What theological areas are a little gray to him right now that he is working through? Is there any stance or view he had that he has recently changed on? Maybe outside of the sin question, are there personality or character items that he sees area for growth for himself?

2. First, to the second set of questions. I’d encourage anyone listening to go listen to a sermon I preached in our Acts series on August 14, 2022. It’s titled “Team Gateway.” In that sermon I talk about the various roles and responsibilities that elders, staff, deacons, and church members all have. That would cover everything from the vision for Gateway, decision making, and so on. I think it will also help clarify the difference between how Gateway is structured compared to churches like Mars Hill. We have a legitimate plurality of leadership. Meaning, the elders are not my board of directors who hold me accountable in how I lead Gateway. The elders are my co-leaders, co-pastors, co-laborers. In fact, in our denominational language I’m a teaching elder which implies my primary role is to teach and preach God’s Word. Other than Robert — who’s also a teaching elder — the remaining 12 elders are called ruling elders — with their primary responsibility being ruling or leading the church. This is a key distinction between us and churches who view the pastor as the CEO of the church. That’s not our model — which is how Mars Hill was organized.
3. As far as what should we do with people we admire or have learned from — other pastors, authors, so on — who have a moral failure?
   1. First, we should all respond with prayer and repentance. There’s a juicy gossip train we all seem to jump on when there’s another scandal. Websites and blogs are dedicated to the moral failures of others. And this is to our shame. Now the news should be reported, but our first response as God’s people should be prayer and repentance. Prayer because God’s name and reputation has been dishonored once again. Repentance because we often are quick to speak and judge whoever’s made the headline this week — as if we’re not just as susceptible to giving in to sin ourselves.
   2. Second, I would suggest practicing patience. No need to throw out all of their books today. But watch for repentance in their life. Public repentance because public sin requires public repentance. Watch to see if they just jump back into ministry as if nothing ever happened. If that’s the case, throw their books in the trash. You can find better things to read. But if they do repent — which we should be praying for — rejoice and celebrate for this is what our Heavenly Father is doing because of their repentance.
   3. Third, guard your heart and make growth in personal holiness a priority. One of my life resolutions is: “Remember, what this congregation needs from me most is my personal holiness.” That’s what you need from me. But it’s what I need from you. And what we all need from each other.
   4. Finally, make the local church a priority. Make deepening your relationship with others in your local church a priority. Make knowing your elders a priority. We’re often devastated when a pastor we’ve never met has a scandal. Meanwhile, there are faithful pastors in our lives who we make little effort to get to know, to build a relationship with, and to develop a sweet bond of trust with. Back to us having a plurality of leadership. This means that if you think your elders aren’t real elders — or don’t think you’ve been reached out to unless I (Pastor Josh) have called you — then know that your view of church leadership is too narrow. You’re wanting us to operate in an unbiblical way where — Josh don’t act like the CEO or sole pastor of the church when it comes to authority, but do act like the CEO or sole pastor of the church when it comes to care and relationships. And neither are biblical or healthy. Beyond that, I’ve only got so much relational capital. I can’t build intimate relational trust with everyone at Gateway — there’s just too many folks. But — kind of like the seven degrees of Kevin Bacon — if you get in close relationships with others at Gateway — I bet it won’t take very long before you personally know someone who knows me — or knows someone who knows someone who knows me. And then it’s up to you to trust their relationship with me. Their words about me. Their judgment of me. But know that there’s a large gap of trust that can’t be built unless we all take steps to be in relationships with others — to be known by others — to love and be loved by others. I know this can be scary. I know that past betrayals may make us less trusting of others today. But that’s a hurdle that I and the leadership of Gateway will never be able to get over — no matter how genuinely trustworthy we are — without all of us taking steps towards each other in relationship — what the Bible calls fellowship.