3/2/25
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
The leaders of the local Church are given authority by the Head of the Church — Jesus Christ. He is the Head because He holds everything together and is the Savior of the Church. As a result, the Church is neither a dictatorship nor a democracy; it is a theocracy. Through the Holy Spirit, God calls and equips individuals for leadership within the Church. God is always guiding and supporting His Church.” John 13:12-17; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:22-25; Colossians 1:17,18
God, through the Apostle Paul instructed the Thessalonian Church to recognize, acknowledge, appreciate, and value their leadership that was over them in the Lord. 1 Timothy 5:17-25; Hebrews 13:17
A valiant spiritual leader will work hard and faithfully shepherd the flock of God.1 Peter 5:1-5
The Church is called to live in peace with one another. We are to verbally admonish those who stray, encourage those who lack spiritual courage, help the weak in faith, and exercise patience with everyone.
The Church must refuse to be cruel, vindictive, or driven by revenge — we are never called to repay wrong with wrong. Instead, we must be relentless in our pursuit of what is good, showing kindness and compassion to each other and to everyone we encounter. Romans 12:1-21
The Church should always walk in victory and find joy in faith, staying strong and consistent in prayer — especially prayers of thanksgiving to God. This is God’s desire for the Church through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-8
The Church must not fall into vanity or suppress the work of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16-26
The Church must never disregard or reject words of instruction, exhortation, or warning. We are responsible to voluntarily test all things, carefully discerning and holding fast to what is good.
The Church must hold firmly to that which is valuable and keep away from every kind of evil.
The God of peace sanctifies the Church, setting Her apart from the profane and the vulgar. He purifies, strengthens, and preserves Her, consecrating Her for His divine purposes.
Jesus is the Vanguard of the Christian Church; He leads Her with unwavering faithfulness. He makes Her holy, guards Her, watches over Her, and protects Her as His own. Ephesians 1:17-23; Colossians 1:15-23