[mp3]http://lbc-downloads.com/podcasts/slp/striving_together_in_spiritual_leadership_part_1.mp3[/mp3]
Podcast: Download
I believe that the truths in this podcast lesson are near the Lord’s heart, because they not only deal with ministry itself, but with the spirit of ministry. Christ came to minister to others (Mark 10:45), and He did it with the perfect balance of grace and truth (John 1:14).
Terrie and I moved to Lancaster in early July of 1986. During the first week in our apartment, I was reading through the book of Philippians when a verse arrested my attention. It described the type of church I wanted to see God raise up in Lancaster, California.
That Sunday evening, I stood before nine people and preached from that verse: “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27).
By God’s grace, our church has worked for the unity and effort described in this verse. I am thankful and very excited about the spirit of ministry still prevalent here at Lancaster Baptist in our twenty-fifth year.
This podcast was originally given last August at our annual staff orientation. It outlines the importance of striving together as a team to encourage growth in the church. It deals with some of the specifics of planning and measuring a high standard of excellence as well as maintaining a selfless servant’s heart while moving forward as a team.
In our churches today, we need an absolute commitment to truth…imparted with a spirit of unity and love. I pray this podcast lesson is helpful to you as you strive together for the sake of the Gospel through your local church.
The Spiritual Leadership podcast is a free resource from Striving Together Publications (a ministry of Lancaster Baptist Church and West Coast Baptist College).
You can subscribe to this podcast through iTunes and listen on your computer or iPod. You can also receive the complimentary outline with each lesson. Click here for more information about subscribing to the outline.
