Ten considerations before appointing church leaders

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In this Bible study, we will discuss 10 essential considerations that must be taken into account before appointing leaders in the church. Through examination of relevant Bible verses and Greek and Hebrew definitions, we will explore the importance of having a servant’s heart, evaluating the motives of potential leaders, and ensuring they are not seed planted on stony ground or novices that Satan could compromise. Additionally, we will examine the significance of evaluating their biblical understanding, faithfulness, and integrity under difficult circumstances, and the need to review commendations and testimony from known leaders. Finally, we will discuss the leading of the Holy Spirit through prayer as the primary gatekeeper in selecting leaders in the church, emphasizing the importance of making wise and informed decisions that honor God and His will for the church.

In this study, the word “leadership” includes anyone who is recognized to do any service in the church. This includes baristas, chaplains, childcare, cooks, deacons, elders, greeters, janitors, maintenance, ministers, pastors, servers, staff, sound, traffic, ushers, video, worship, and any other leaders. Therefore, this study is important for anyone evaluating someone’s qualifications to serve in any capacity of leadership. And it is important that everyone seeking to serve understands this is the process of evaluation. If anyone gets impatient or frustrated, it may be an indication that they are not ready to be approved.

Leadership in the church is an important responsibility that must be taken seriously. The Bible provides us with guidance on how to select and appoint leaders in the church. Starting with Moses in the wilderness choosing able men which fear God: men of truth, hating unjust gain; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. (Exodus 18:21). Including the example of choosing Deacons in the early church (Acts 6). All the way to Paul’s requirements for Elders and Deacons (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1). The Bible consistently presents the same message about leadership.

Therefore, it is important to take time to approve someone for church leadership to ensure they meet these 10 essential considerations including having a servant’s heart, evaluating motives, ensuring that potential leaders are not seed planted on stony ground or novices that Satan could compromise, and evaluating their biblical understanding, faithfulness, and integrity under difficult circumstances. In addition, it is important to review commendations and testimony from known leaders and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit through prayer as the gatekeeper in the process of selecting leaders in the church.

1. Motive of a Servant’s Heart is Required for a Leader

When considering individuals for leadership in the church, it is important to evaluate their character and motives. As Philippians 2:7 reminds us, leaders should follow the example of Jesus, who humbly served others. Matthew 20:28 emphasizes the importance of leaders having a servant’s heart, willing to put the needs of others before their own. Titus 1:7 lists the qualifications for church leaders, including being self-controlled, upright, and disciplined. Finally, James 3:16 warns against selfish ambition and earthly wisdom, both of which can be harmful to a leader’s character and effectiveness. By evaluating a person’s character and motives, we can ensure that they are able to lead with humility, selflessness, and integrity, putting the needs of others above their own desires and ambitions.

Philippians 2:7 – The Greek word used for “made himself nothing” is “ἐκένωσεν” (ekenōsen), which means to empty or make oneself of no reputation. It emphasizes the idea of Jesus setting aside his divine privileges and humbly serving others.

Matthew 20:28 – The Greek word used for “serve” is “διακονέω” (diakonéō), which means to serve, minister, or attend to the needs of others. It emphasizes the idea of a leader who serves with humility and selflessness.

Titus 1:7 – The Greek word used for “self-controlled” is “ἐγκρατής” (egkratēs), which means having control over one’s passions, desires, or impulses. It emphasizes the importance of a leader being able to exercise self-control and discipline.

James 3:16 – The Greek word used for “selfish ambition” is “ἐριθεία” (eritheia), which means rivalry, self-seeking, or factionalism. It emphasizes the danger of leaders who are driven by personal ambition and desire for power or recognition, rather than a desire to serve and care for others.

Overall, these Greek definitions highlight the importance of leaders who are willing to set aside their own desires and serve others with humility and selflessness. They emphasize the importance of leaders who exercise self-control and discipline, and who avoid selfish ambition and factionalism. These qualities are essential for effective leadership in the church.

2. Ensure not Seed Planted on Stony Ground

One reason to take time approving someone for church leadership is to ensure that they are not planted on stony ground that will spring up suddenly and then fade away. In Matthew 13:5-6, Jesus speaks of seeds falling on stony ground, which sprout quickly but wither away because they have no root. This can be applied to church leadership, as someone who appears to be a strong leader initially may not have the depth of character or faith to sustain them in the long term.

“Stony Ground” – The Greek phrase used for stony ground in this passage is πετρώδης (petrōdēs), which means rocky or stony. It refers to ground that is hard and lacks the ability to retain moisture, making it difficult for seeds to take root and grow.

“Sprung Up” – The Greek phrase used for sprung up in this passage is ἐξανέτειλεν (exaneteilen), which means to spring up or shoot forth. It emphasizes the idea that the seeds initially show signs of growth and life, but do not have the depth to sustain that growth.

“Withered Away” – The Greek phrase used for withered away in this passage is ἐξηράνθη (exēranthē), which means to become dry or withered. It emphasizes the idea that the lack of moisture and nutrients causes the seeds to dry up and die.

Overall, these Greek definitions highlight the importance of having good soil or a receptive heart to receive the Word of God. The rocky or stony ground represents a heart that lacks the depth and ability to sustain spiritual growth. The lack of moisture and nutrients causes the seeds to dry up and die, emphasizing the need for spiritual nourishment and support to sustain our faith.

3. Keep Pure from the Sins of Others

Another reason to take time approving someone for church leadership is to keep the church pure from the sins of others. In 1 Timothy 5:22, Paul writes that we should not lay hands on anyone suddenly, lest we share in their sins. This means that before appointing someone to a leadership position, we must ensure that they are not tainted by the ongoing, unconfessed, and unrepentant sins, and that they are morally upright.

“Lay hands” – The Greek phrase used for lay hands in this passage is ἐπιτίθημι χεῖρας (epitithemi cheiras), which means to place hands upon. It refers to the act of ordaining or appointing someone to a leadership position in the church.

“Suddenly” – The Greek word used for suddenly in this passage is ταχέως (tacheōs), which means quickly or hastily. It emphasizes the idea of not acting too quickly or impulsively when appointing someone to a leadership position.

“Sin” – The Greek word used for sin in this passage is ἁμαρτία (hamartia), which means to miss the mark or fall short. It refers to any wrongdoing or transgression that goes against God’s will.

“Share” – The Greek word used for share in this passage is κοινωνέω (koinōneō), which means to participate, share, or fellowship. It refers to the idea of being involved in or associated with someone’s sins or wrongdoing.

Overall, these Greek definitions highlight the importance of being cautious and deliberate when appointing someone to a leadership position in the church. The phrase lay hands emphasizes the solemnity and seriousness of the appointment, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and discernment. The word suddenly emphasizes the importance of not acting too quickly or impulsively, but rather taking the time to carefully evaluate and consider the individual’s qualifications and character. The word sin emphasizes the need to be careful about associating with or sharing in the sins of others, and to take steps to avoid being implicated in their wrongdoing.

  • The controversy of sin – The controversy of sin is not that we are sinners, it is how badly we are sinners, not that God hates sin, but what God has done about sin
  • Unrepentant sin requires righteous judgment – God is a righteous God who demands righteous justice. He cannot tolerate unrepentant sin. Someday he will return in vengeance to execute judgment
  • The Sinner’s Prayer – The sinner’s prayer involves repentance, faith in Jesus Christ, confession of sin, surrender to God, and sincerity/humility

4. Evaluate Solid Biblical Understanding

A leader in the church must have a solid understanding of the Bible. In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul writes that we must study to show ourselves approved unto God, workmen who need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. This means that a leader in the church must have a thorough understanding of the Bible and be able to apply its teachings to their life and ministry.

“Study” – The Greek word used for study in this verse is σπουδάζω (spoudazō), which means to be diligent, make an effort, or strive earnestly. It emphasizes the idea of putting in hard work and effort to gain knowledge and understanding.

“Approved” – The Greek word used for approved in this verse is δόκιμος (dokimos), which means tested, tried, or approved. It refers to something that has been examined and found to be genuine or authentic.

“Workman” – The Greek word used for workman in this verse is ἐργάτης (ergatēs), which means a laborer or worker. It emphasizes the idea of putting in effort and work to achieve something.

“Ashamed” – The Greek word used for ashamed in this verse is αἰσχύνω (aischynō), which means to feel shame or disgrace. It emphasizes the idea of avoiding embarrassment or disgrace by doing what is right.

“Rightly dividing” – The Greek phrase used for “rightly dividing” in this verse is ὀρθοτομέω (orthotomeō), which means to cut straight or to correctly handle. It emphasizes the idea of accurately interpreting and applying the teachings of the Bible.

Overall, these Greek definitions highlight the importance of putting in hard work and effort to gain knowledge and understanding of the Bible, being tested and approved by God, putting in the necessary work to achieve our goals, avoiding embarrassment by doing what is right, and accurately interpreting and applying the teachings of the Bible.

This shows why a solid biblical understanding is required for leaders because it ensures that they are able to accurately teach and apply God’s word to the congregation. Without this understanding, leaders may lead the church astray by misinterpreting scripture or promoting false teachings. The Bible emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and warns against false teachers. Therefore, leaders must have a solid understanding of the Bible in order to teach and lead the church in a way that is faithful to God’s word.

Obviously, the level and degree of Biblical knowledge and understanding is going to be different between various kinds of service. For instance, a deacon, minister, or pastor is required to have a much deeper understanding of the theology and biblical precepts of the church. But everyone must be in unity on fundamental concepts.

5. Avoid Promoting a Novice into a Position that Satan could Compromise

It is also important to avoid promoting a novice into a position that Satan could compromise. In 1 Timothy 3:6, Paul warns against appointing a recent convert to leadership in the church, as they may become conceited and fall into the condemnation of the devil. This highlights the need to take time to evaluate someone’s maturity in their faith before appointing them to a leadership position.

“Novice” – The Greek word used for novice in this passage is νεόφυτος (neophytos), which means a new convert or someone who is new to the faith. It emphasizes the idea of someone who is inexperienced or lacks maturity in their faith.

“Conceited” – The Greek word used for conceited in this passage is τυφωθείς (typhōtheis), which means to be puffed up or inflated. It emphasizes the idea of someone who is arrogant or self-important.

“Condemnation” – The Greek word used for condemnation in this passage is κρίμα (krima), which means judgment or punishment. It emphasizes the idea of someone who is deserving of punishment or discipline for their actions.

Overall, these Greek definitions highlight the importance of having mature, experienced leaders in the church who are not new to the faith or prone to arrogance. Novices are at risk of becoming conceited and falling into condemnation, so it is important to take time to evaluate their maturity and understanding of the faith before appointing them to a leadership position.

6. Demonstrated Faithfulness, Honesty, and Integrity of Leaders Under Difficult Circumstances

Another reason to take time approving someone for church leadership is to see examples of their faithfulness under difficult and adverse situations. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul writes that it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. A leader in the church must be someone who has demonstrated faithfulness in all areas of their life, even when faced with challenging circumstances.

“Steward” – The Greek word translated as “steward” is is “οἰκονόμος” (oikonomos). The word comes from two Greek words: “oikos,” meaning “house,” and “nómos,” meaning “law” or “custom.” This refers to someone who is entrusted with managing and overseeing the affairs of a household or estate on behalf of the owner.

“Faithfulness” – The Greek word used for faithfulness in 1 Corinthians 4:2 is πιστός (pistos), which means trustworthy, faithful, or reliable. This refers to someone who is dependable and can be counted on to fulfill their responsibilities.

This proving is accomplished during times of adversity as described by Paul, in Romans 5:3-5, “… we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope doesn’t disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

“Endurance” – The Greek word used for endurance in Romans 5:4 is ὑπομονή (hupomonē), which means steadfastness, perseverance, or patient endurance. It refers to the ability to withstand trials and difficulties without giving up or losing hope.

“Proven” – The Greek word used for proven in this passage is δοκιμάζω (dokimazō), which means to test, examine, or prove. This refers to someone who has been tested and found to be trustworthy and reliable.

These verses show that leaders always lead in good times and bad, through times of plenty and times of poverty, through friendship and adversity. But if you haven’t seen someone perform in any of those circumstances, it would be foolhardy to declare them to be a leader.

7. Allow Proving Leaders Before Giving More Authority

A leader in the church must be someone who has proven themselves before being given authority. In Luke 16:10, Jesus teaches that he who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much. This means that a person who has been faithful in small things can be trusted with greater responsibility. Before appointing someone to a leadership position, we must ensure that they have proven themselves in smaller roles and have shown themselves to be trustworthy and responsible.

“Faithful” – The Greek word used for faithful in this passage is πιστός (pistos), which means trustworthy, faithful, or reliable. It emphasizes the idea of someone who is dependable and can be counted on to fulfill their responsibilities.

“Little” – The Greek word used for little in this passage is ἐλάχιστος (elachistos), which means the smallest or least. It emphasizes the idea that the things we consider to be small or insignificant still matter to God and can have a big impact on our faithfulness.

“Much” – The Greek word used for much in this passage is πολύς (polys), which means many or much. It emphasizes the idea that faithfulness in small things can lead to greater opportunities and blessings.

“Responsibility” = The Greek word for “responsibility” is “ἐπιμελεία” (epimelēia), which can also be translated as “care” or “diligence.”

Overall, these Greek definitions highlight the importance of being faithful in small things, as they can lead to greater opportunities and blessings. The word faithful emphasizes the importance of being dependable and fulfilling our responsibilities, even in small matters. The words little and much emphasize that God values faithfulness in all things, regardless of their size or perceived importance.

In addition, there is a special requirement for leaders with families. Paul referred to this in 1 Timothy 3:4-5 as, “He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?” This verse emphasizes the importance of a leader’s ability to manage their own household as a qualification for leadership in the church.

“Manage” – The Greek word used for manage in 1 Timothy 3:4 is προΐστημι (proistēmi), which means to be set over, to preside, or to manage. It emphasizes the idea of a leader being in charge of and responsible for their own household.

This highlights the importance of a leader’s ability to manage their own household as a qualification for leadership in the church. A leader’s family life is a reflection of their character and ability to lead others, and their ability to manage their own household is directly linked to their ability to care for God’s church.

8. Review Commendation from Known Leaders

Finally, before appointing someone to a leadership position, we should review commendations from known leaders. In Acts 6:3, Paul says to select men who are of good report. In Acts 16:2, Paul circumcises Timothy because he was well spoken of by the brethren who were at Lystra and Iconium. This highlights the importance of seeking out the opinions of other respected leaders in the church when considering someone for leadership. We should seek out recommendations and endorsements from people who have worked closely with the individual and can speak to their character, abilities, and suitability for leadership.

“Good report” – The Greek phrase used for a good report in these passages is μαρτυρέω (martyreō), which means to bear witness or testify. It emphasizes the idea that Steven and Timothy were recommended or endorsed by other believers in the region.

“Brethren” – The Greek word used for brethren in these passages is ἀδελφός (adelphos), which means a brother or fellow believer. It emphasizes the idea that the believers in the region were part of a close-knit community of faith.

These definitions highlight the importance of appointing leaders to leadership positions. Paul is declaring that Timothy had already been functioning in leadership before he was recognized as a leader. This is not a time to take an unproven person without any record of accomplishment, and magically declare them to be in leadership to fail or succeed entirely.

9. Review Testimony of Multiple Witnesses

On top of everything else, it is important to share this responsibility with other trusted counselors because the Bible is very consistent that everything should be established in the mouth of two or three witnesses. This is true for examples of lifestyle, commendation from known leaders, and agreement to appoint or ordain a leader.

Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” This verse highlights the importance of seeking counsel and advice from others before making important decisions.

Deuteronomy 19:15 – “A single witness shall not suffice against a person for any crime or for any wrong in connection with any offense that he has committed. Only on the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses shall a charge be established.” This verse emphasizes the importance of having multiple witnesses to establish the truth of a matter.

2 Corinthians 13:1 – “This is the third time I am coming to you. Every charge must be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses.” This verse emphasizes the importance of having multiple witnesses to establish the truth of a matter, even when it involves church leadership.

Matthew 18:16 – “But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses.” This verse emphasizes the importance of having multiple witnesses to establish the truth of a matter, even when it involves conflict resolution within the church.

Overall, these verses highlight the importance of seeking counsel and advice from others and having multiple witnesses to establish the truth of a matter, especially when it involves appointing someone to leadership in the church. By hearing testimony from multiple people, we can ensure that we make wise and informed decisions that honor God and reflect his will for the church.

10. Leading of the Holy Spirit through Prayer

Even if everything else seems fine, but the Holy Spirit gives you unease about this person in your prayers for discernment, trust your mind, heart, conscience, leading of the Holy Spirit, and the Bible. Consider the word picture of the angel of the LORD preventing Balaam from prophesying against God’s will (Numbers 22). This emphasizes how we should allow the Holy Spirit to guide our heart and mind before we make bad choices.

Always remember, the godhead works in perfect unity, so you can be confident the Holy Spirit will not contradict God the Father, or Jesus Christ and his revealed written word in the Bible. Therefore, you can allow the Holy Spirit to be a gatekeeper to override your evaluation. But never think that the Holy Spirit will handout “Get out of jail free” cards to bypass biblical requirements and shortcut the evaluation process.

When selecting leaders for the church, it is important to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Proverbs 3:21 reminds us to seek wisdom, insight, and discernment, stating “My son, do not lose sight of these— keep sound wisdom and discretion.” Philippians 1:9 highlights the importance of having perception and understanding, with Paul’s prayer that the Philippians’ love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.

“Wisdom” – The Hebrew word for wisdom is “חָכְמָה” (chokhmah), which means skill, shrewdness, or prudence. In the context of Proverbs 3:21, this means seeking the skill, shrewdness, and prudence needed to understand and apply God’s wisdom to one’s life.

“Insight” – The Hebrew word for insight is “בִּינָה” (binah), which means understanding or discernment. In the context of Proverbs 3:21, this means seeking understanding and discernment to make wise decisions that honor God and serve His people.

“Discernment” – The Hebrew word for discernment is “מִזְמָר” (mizmor), which means understanding, insight, or discretion. In the context of Proverbs 3:21, this means seeking understanding, insight, and discretion to discern what is good and right according to God’s will.

“Discernment” – The Greek word used for “discernment” in Philippians 1:9 is “αἴσθησις” (aisthēsis), which means perception, understanding, or discernment. In this verse, Paul prays that the Philippians’ love may abound more and more in knowledge and all discernment, emphasizing the importance of having discernment when selecting leaders in the church. This means that we must be able to perceive and understand the character, motives, and qualifications of potential leaders, in order to make wise decisions that honor God and serve His people. By seeking discernment from the Holy Spirit, and using the knowledge and wisdom given to us through the Scriptures and the counsel of others, we can select leaders who are equipped to serve and lead in the church.

We must look beyond outward appearances to discern the true character and motives of a person. 1 Samuel 16:7 emphasizes this, stating “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” It is important to seek God’s guidance to discern the true character and qualifications of potential leaders.

“Heart” – The Hebrew word used for “heart” in 1 Samuel 16:7 is “לֵב” (leb), which means the innermost part of a person, including their thoughts, feelings, and will. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of looking beyond outward appearances when selecting leaders in the church, and seeking God’s guidance to discern the true character and motives of a person.

Isaiah 11:2 describes the leading of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role in giving us wisdom, understanding, and discernment, stating “The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord.” By relying on the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and understanding, we can make wise decisions that honor God and serve His people.

“Understanding” – The Hebrew word used for “understanding” in Isaiah 11:2 is “בִּינָה” (binah), which means insight, understanding, or discernment. This verse describes the leading of the Holy Spirit, who rests upon the Messiah and empowers Him with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and fear of the Lord. In the context of selecting leaders in the church, this emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding from the Holy Spirit when making decisions. By relying on the Holy Spirit’s insight and discernment, we can select leaders who are equipped to serve and lead in the church with wisdom and understanding that comes from God.

Finally, John 16:13 emphasizes the Holy Spirit’s role in guiding us into truth and giving us discernment, stating “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” By relying on the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can select leaders who are qualified and equipped to serve in the church.

“Guide” – The Greek word used for “guide” in John 16:13 is “ὁδηγέω” (hodēgeō), which means to guide or lead the way. In the context of appointing leaders in the church, this means that we must allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us in the selection process. We cannot rely solely on our own wisdom or understanding, but must seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to ensure that we are appointing leaders who are in line with God’s will and equipped to serve the church. The Holy Spirit is the one who can guide us into all truth (John 16:13), so we must trust in His leading and take the time to discern His direction as we appoint leaders in the church.

Overall, these verses and definitions highlight the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment from the Holy Spirit when selecting leaders in the church. By being led by the Holy Spirit and seeking understanding and insight, we can make wise and informed decisions that honor God and His will for the church.

Summary of considerations before appointing leaders

In conclusion, this Bible study has emphasized the importance of carefully evaluating and discerning before appointing leaders in the church. We have explored ten essential considerations that must be taken into account, including having a servant’s heart, evaluating motives, ensuring that potential leaders are not seed planted on stony ground or novices that Satan could compromise, and evaluating their biblical understanding, faithfulness, and integrity under difficult circumstances. We have also discussed the significance of reviewing commendations and testimony from known leaders and the leading of the Holy Spirit through prayer as the primary gatekeeper in the process of selecting leaders in the church.

By following these considerations and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, church leaders can make wise and informed decisions that honor God and serve His people. May this study serve as a helpful guide for those involved in the important task of appointing leaders in the church, as we seek to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to His name.

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