COUPLES FOR CHRIST COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING
All household leaders (household heads and their respective wives) are to undergo formation by All household leaders (household heads and their respective wives) are to undergo formation by going through the Household Leaders Training (HLT).
going through the Household Leaders Training (HLT). Content of HLT Content of HLT A. Orientation A. Orientation 1. Being a servant 1. Being a servant
2. The household: purpose, dynamics and leadership 2. The household: purpose, dynamics and leadership 3. Being leaders of households
3. Being leaders of households
4. Building a relationship with your members 4. Building a relationship with your members B.
B. Character Character of of a a servantservant 5. Zeal for righteousness 5. Zeal for righteousness 6. Good example
6. Good example
7. Singlemindedness for God 7. Singlemindedness for God 8. Brotherly love
8. Brotherly love C.
C. Building Building up up the the brethrenbrethren 9. Evangelistic headship 9. Evangelistic headship
10. The ministry of encouragement 10. The ministry of encouragement 11. Correction--a pastoral tool 11. Correction--a pastoral tool 12. The power to intercede 12. The power to intercede D.
D. Growing Growing as as a a servantservant 13. Prayer 13. Prayer 14. Faith in God 14. Faith in God 15. Humble leadership 15. Humble leadership 16. Evaluation 16. Evaluation Conduct of HLT Conduct of HLT
The HLT is given by the different chapters or clusters. The HLT is given by the different chapters or clusters.
The orientation, consisting of the first four talks, is given in one session, prior to the household The orientation, consisting of the first four talks, is given in one session, prior to the household leaders assuming their positions.
leaders assuming their positions. The rest of HLT (next
The rest of HLT (next 12 talks) are normally 12 talks) are normally given in 12 separate monthly given in 12 separate monthly sessions. sessions. Thus theThus the whole HLT will
whole HLT will be completed in one year. be completed in one year. The Chapters Head may The Chapters Head may opt to combine certainopt to combine certain sessions, if circumstances necessitate this.
sessions, if circumstances necessitate this.
To conserve resources, especially since the household leaders of a particular chapter would be on To conserve resources, especially since the household leaders of a particular chapter would be on
different tracks during the year, it is recommended that the HLT be conducted on a cluster basis, different tracks during the year, it is recommended that the HLT be conducted on a cluster basis, perhaps with the different chapters taking turns in conducting the HLT.
perhaps with the different chapters taking turns in conducting the HLT.
Another thing that the chapter or cluster can consider is to fix the particular sessions on Another thing that the chapter or cluster can consider is to fix the particular sessions on particular
particular months months of of the the year, year, for for example, example, Talk Talk 5 5 in in January, January, Talk Talk 6 6 in in February, February, Talk Talk 16 16 inin December. In such a case, newly appointed household leaders, after the orientation session, will December. In such a case, newly appointed household leaders, after the orientation session, will enter this track at anytime during the year, starting not with Talk 5 but whatever session is being enter this track at anytime during the year, starting not with Talk 5 but whatever session is being conducted at that time, and go
conducted at that time, and go through the whole track up through the whole track up to the next year. to the next year. For example, aFor example, a household leader-couple appointed in June will be given the orientation session (first 4 talks) household leader-couple appointed in June will be given the orientation session (first 4 talks) prior to assuming their p
prior to assuming their position, then continue osition, then continue with HLT by attending with HLT by attending the July session (Talk 11),the July session (Talk 11), and end the track with the June session of the following year (Talk 10).
and end the track with the June session of the following year (Talk 10). Content of each session
Content of each session
Each HLT session would normally consist of the
Each HLT session would normally consist of the following:following: 1.
1. Worship Worship (about (about 30 30 minutes)minutes) 2.
2. Talk Talk (about (about 45 45 minutes)minutes) 3.
3. Open Open forum forum (about (about one one hour)hour)
The worship is to be led by a Chapter Head or a U
The worship is to be led by a Chapter Head or a Unit Head. nit Head. The talk is given by a Chapter The talk is given by a Chapter HeadHead or a Unit Head.
or a Unit Head. The open forum is handled by a Chapter Head or The open forum is handled by a Chapter Head or a Chapter Director.a Chapter Director. Attendance
Attendance
Attendance at HLT is a must. Attendance at HLT is a must. Absences may be perm
Absences may be permitted for acceptable itted for acceptable reasons. reasons. Those who are Those who are absent at sessabsent at sessions mustions must secure and listen to a tape of the talk, and also of the open forum if this was taped.
secure and listen to a tape of the talk, and also of the open forum if this was taped.
However, it is emphasized that the HLT session is important not only for the teaching given. However, it is emphasized that the HLT session is important not only for the teaching given. Other very important elements of training and formation in HLT are:
Other very important elements of training and formation in HLT are: 1.
1. Worshipping Worshipping the Lord the Lord as a as a body of body of leaders.leaders. 2.
2. Gaining wisdom Gaining wisdom from from inputs inputs during the during the open forum.open forum. 3.
3. Affording the Chapter Head Affording the Chapter Head or Chapter Director or Chapter Director the opportunity to be the opportunity to be with and addresswith and address the community's household leaders, building them up as a team and keeping them on the community's household leaders, building them up as a team and keeping them on track with the CFC vision.
track with the CFC vision.
Continued absence at HLT sessions, whether for acceptable reasons or not, can be grounds for Continued absence at HLT sessions, whether for acceptable reasons or not, can be grounds for removal as household leaders.
removal as household leaders.
Finishing the HLT is a pr
Finishing the HLT is a prerequisite to appointment as unit erequisite to appointment as unit leaders. leaders. There may be exceptions toThere may be exceptions to this, as decided by t
leaders will still have to continue and finish the HLT. leaders will still have to continue and finish the HLT.
Household leaders who have completed the HLT are no longer required to attend the monthly Household leaders who have completed the HLT are no longer required to attend the monthly sessions, unless they desire to do so as a refresher or are directed to attend by the Chapter Head. sessions, unless they desire to do so as a refresher or are directed to attend by the Chapter Head.
CFC
CFC PFO. PFO. Dec. Dec. 22, 22, 1994. 1994. 69 69 pages.pages. COUPLES FOR CHRIST
COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING
TALK No. 1
TALK No. 1 : : BEING A SBEING A SERVANTERVANT Expanded Outline
Expanded Outline A. Introduction. A. Introduction.
1.
1. In order to In order to be better Christian be better Christian servants, we need servants, we need to understand the to understand the nature of Christinature of Christianan service.
service. a)
a) We We need need to to ask ask ourselves:ourselves:
∗
∗ Why do we serve?Why do we serve? ∗
∗ Who are we as servants?Who are we as servants? ∗
∗ How do we serve?How do we serve?
b)
b) In In order order to to answer answer these, these, we we need need a a vision vision of of reality reality that that can can clearly clearly point point out out to to usus the whole approach to service that we
the whole approach to service that we are to take. are to take. We need to see We need to see the reality in thethe reality in the world around us not in the way that the world sees it, but in the way God sees it.
world around us not in the way that the world sees it, but in the way God sees it. 2.
2. There are There are two basic two basic realities trealities that we hat we need to need to see.see. a)
a) There are two kingdoms There are two kingdoms opposed to one another, the opposed to one another, the kingdom of darkness kingdom of darkness underunder Satan and the kingdom of light under our Lord.
Satan and the kingdom of light under our Lord.
∗
∗ Satan has real spiritual power (Eph 6:12). He has forces under his control whichSatan has real spiritual power (Eph 6:12). He has forces under his control which
are opposed to God and His followers. are opposed to God and His followers.
∗
∗ Our enemy is not principally social problems, human weakness, lack ofOur enemy is not principally social problems, human weakness, lack of
education, etc., but a whole kingdom. Our battle is a spiritual one. education, etc., but a whole kingdom. Our battle is a spiritual one.
∗
∗ Thus anything we do that involves taking someone from the dominion of SatanThus anything we do that involves taking someone from the dominion of Satan
into the kingdom of light will involve us in this battle for the hearts and minds of into the kingdom of light will involve us in this battle for the hearts and minds of men. Any Christian service is automatically spiritual warfare.
men. Any Christian service is automatically spiritual warfare. b)
b) Man is in sin and bondage and needs to be redeemed.Man is in sin and bondage and needs to be redeemed.
∗
∗ The fundamental problem of the world is not social ills (this is just theThe fundamental problem of the world is not social ills (this is just the
manifestation of the problem) but sin. manifestation of the problem) but sin.
∗
∗ Man needs to be reconciled with God, and only Jesus is able to do this.Man needs to be reconciled with God, and only Jesus is able to do this.
∗
∗ We are the instruments that God uses to We are the instruments that God uses to bring other men back to bring other men back to Him.Him.
c)
c) The above two The above two realities should realities should form our form our vision for vision for our Christian our Christian service.service. 3.
a)
a) The emphasis The emphasis is on is on being a serbeing a servant rather than vant rather than on doing seron doing service.vice. b)
b) Lk 10:38-42. Lk 10:38-42. The story of Martha and Mary.The story of Martha and Mary. B.
B. There are three important New Testament There are three important New Testament passages that we will examipassages that we will examine in order to clarifyne in order to clarify our understanding of what it means to be a servant.
our understanding of what it means to be a servant. 1.
1. Lk Lk 17:7-10. 17:7-10. The The duty duty of of a a servant.servant. a)
a) We have lost We have lost touch with the real touch with the real meaning of the meaning of the word "servant" as word "servant" as understood inunderstood in Jesus' time.
Jesus' time.
∗
∗ During those times, a servant (or slave) was someone who was another person'sDuring those times, a servant (or slave) was someone who was another person's
property and had no rights whatsoever. property and had no rights whatsoever.
∗
∗ Thus Jesus' story must have been amusing to his listeners. They could notThus Jesus' story must have been amusing to his listeners. They could not
comprehend a situation where the servant is served by his master. comprehend a situation where the servant is served by his master. b)
b) We We are are the the Lord's Lord's servants. servants. We We have have been been bought bought at at the the price price of of his his blood. blood. We We nono longer own ourselves.
longer own ourselves. We are We are to be men to be men and women who and women who serve the Lord serve the Lord withoutwithout regard for ourselves.
regard for ourselves. 2.
2. Phil Phil 2:5-8. 2:5-8. The The identity identity of of a a servant.servant. a)
a) Christian service Christian service is not is not just another just another avenue for avenue for self-fulfillmself-fulfillment.ent.
∗
∗ We have no basis for insisting that God give us work to do that suits ourWe have no basis for insisting that God give us work to do that suits our
personality, interests or personal gains. personality, interests or personal gains. b)
b) The The Christian Christian doesn't doesn't seek seek to to serve serve himself. himself. Rather, Rather, he he humbles humbles himself himself and and putsputs himself at the disposal of everyone else.
himself at the disposal of everyone else.
∗
∗ Jesus' example.Jesus' example.
3.
3. Heb Heb 5:8. 5:8. The The obedience obedience of of a a servant.servant. a)
a) A requirement of A requirement of the lordship of the lordship of Jesus and our Jesus and our own servanthood is own servanthood is obedience to hisobedience to his authority.
authority.
∗
∗ Obedience cannot be halfway or half-hearted. Obedience cannot be halfway or half-hearted. Either Jesus is Either Jesus is Lord of all areas Lord of all areas ofof
our life, or our ascription of master and
our life, or our ascription of master and Lord to him is meaningless.Lord to him is meaningless. C.
C. Obstacles Obstacles to to obedience.obedience. 1.
a)
a) We think of We think of "servants" as l"servants" as lowly, doing menial owly, doing menial work, unable to become work, unable to become better on theirbetter on their own.
own. b)
b) Solution: Correct concept of being the Lord's servant.Solution: Correct concept of being the Lord's servant. 2.
2. Natural disinclination Natural disinclination to think to think of other of other people first people first instead of instead of ourselves.ourselves. a)
a) We often think We often think first of first of what is good what is good for us, what for us, what will fulfill will fulfill us.us. b)
b) Solution: A fundamental reorientation of our lives.Solution: A fundamental reorientation of our lives.
∗
∗ Realize that a servant of the Lord never goes into a situation for himself, butRealize that a servant of the Lord never goes into a situation for himself, but
always looking out for how he can serve others. always looking out for how he can serve others. 3.
3. Human Human rebelliousness.rebelliousness. a)
a) Our fallen Our fallen nature is nature is inclined to sinclined to say "I wilay "I will not l not serve".serve". b)
b) Solution: Repent, and resolve to obey.Solution: Repent, and resolve to obey. 4.
4. Lack of tLack of trust (in rust (in the Lord, our the Lord, our heads, our brothers heads, our brothers and sisters).and sisters). a)
a) If I If I obey, will obey, will they take they take care of care of me? me? Can I Can I rely on rely on them?them? b)
b) Solution: Solution: Have faith!Have faith!
∗
∗ Realize that God calls us to serve Him and will care for us as a loving Father.Realize that God calls us to serve Him and will care for us as a loving Father. ∗
∗ Realize that God puts other people in headship position over us and He worksRealize that God puts other people in headship position over us and He works
through them. through them.
∗
∗ Realize that God has called us into CFC to experience brotherhood and sisterhoodRealize that God has called us into CFC to experience brotherhood and sisterhood
in the Lord. in the Lord. D.
D. Growing into Growing into maturity as maturity as Christian servants.Christian servants. 1.
1. The Lord does The Lord does not just want not just want us to be us to be enthusiastic and willing enthusiastic and willing servants, but he servants, but he wants us towants us to be mature Christian servants.
be mature Christian servants. He wants people he can truly count on.He wants people he can truly count on. 2.
2. Some Some signs signs of of maturity:maturity: a)
a) Christian wiChristian wisdom and sdom and teachings are teachings are being applied being applied to your to your lives.lives. b)
b) Relationships (both with the Lord and with one another) are strong and full.Relationships (both with the Lord and with one another) are strong and full. c)
∗
∗ Daily personal prayer.Daily personal prayer.
∗
∗ Attendance at meetings.Attendance at meetings. ∗
∗ Fidelity to service assigned.Fidelity to service assigned.
d)
d) You are You are men and men and women of women of your word. your word. You can You can make commitmmake commitments and ents and stick tostick to them.
them.
e) You are working on the various obstacles and shortcomings in your lives as e) You are working on the various obstacles and shortcomings in your lives as
Christians. Christians.
∗
∗ Every new day should be taken as an opportunity to become more Christlike.Every new day should be taken as an opportunity to become more Christlike.
f)
f) You are sYou are servants who can ervants who can serve without serve without having to having to be acknowledged, appreciated be acknowledged, appreciated oror rewarded.
rewarded.
∗
∗ Though God and CFC do appreciate your efforts, our motivation is not reward orThough God and CFC do appreciate your efforts, our motivation is not reward or
recognition. recognition.
∗
∗ We simply serve out of our love for God We simply serve out of our love for God and neighbor.and neighbor.
E. Conclusion. E. Conclusion.
1.
1. The The cost cost of of servanthood. servanthood. 2 2 Cor Cor 11:23-28.11:23-28. a)
a) Perhaps none Perhaps none of us of us would ever would ever have to have to go through go through Paul's experiences. Paul's experiences. But beingBut being God's servant will involve some hardship and suffering.
God's servant will involve some hardship and suffering. b)
b) All the All the difficulties involved difficulties involved with bewith being ing a servant a servant will producwill produce joy e joy for us. for us. There There is ais a purpose for the difficulty.
purpose for the difficulty. 2.
2. Our Our lives lives are are like like a a grain grain of of wheat. wheat. Jn Jn 12:24-26.12:24-26. a)
a) To be fTo be fruitful we ruitful we must fall must fall into the into the ground and die.ground and die.
∗
∗ We die to our self-interest.We die to our self-interest.
∗
∗ We put the Lord first.We put the Lord first.
b)
b) Our dying to ourselves is life-giving to others.Our dying to ourselves is life-giving to others. 3.
COUPLES FOR CHRIST COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING TALK No. 2 :
TALK No. 2 : THE HOUSEHOLD: PURPOSETHE HOUSEHOLD: PURPOSE, DYNAMICS AND LEADERSHI, DYNAMICS AND LEADERSHIPP Speaker's Outline
Speaker's Outline Note:
Note: The The following following is is a a brief brief outline outline of of what what the the content content of of your your talk talk should should be. be. For For furtherfurther material with which to flesh out your talk, please refer to the Household Head's Manual. material with which to flesh out your talk, please refer to the Household Head's Manual. A.
A. The The Household.Household. 1. Definition 1. Definition 2. Purpose 2. Purpose 3. Composition 3. Composition B.
B. The The Household Household Head.Head. 1.
1. His His rolerole 2.
2. His His basic basic attitudes attitudes to to his his workwork 3.
3. Some arSome areas to eas to refer refer to the to the Unit HeadUnit Head 4.
4. Practical Practical stepssteps C.
C. The The Household Household Members.Members. 1.
1. Attitudes Attitudes they they should should havehave 2. Attendance
2. Attendance D.
D. The The Household Household Meeting.Meeting. 1. Frequency 1. Frequency 2. Venue 2. Venue 3. Ingredients 3. Ingredients 4. Duration 4. Duration E.
E. Topics Topics for for DiscussionDiscussion F.
F. Other Other Group Group ActivitiesActivities
NOTE:
NOTE: The The Household Household Head's Head's Manual Manual is is to to be be given given out out to to the the new new household household leaders. leaders. AlsoAlso given out is the "Orientation of new households to CFC" manual.
given out is the "Orientation of new households to CFC" manual. COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING TALK No. 3
TALK No. 3 : : BEING LEADERS BEING LEADERS OF HOUSEHOLDSOF HOUSEHOLDS Expanded Outline
Expanded Outline A. Introduction. A. Introduction.
1.
1. You are You are all called all called to do to do God's work God's work in CFC.in CFC. a)
a) This is This is very important very important work. work. You are You are leaders of leaders of cell groups cell groups which make which make up the up the basicbasic support structure for CFC members.
support structure for CFC members. b)
b) You need to respond humbly and fully.You need to respond humbly and fully. 2.
2. You are You are all new all new to this to this kind of kind of pastoral leadership. pastoral leadership. God is God is doing something doing something new.new. a)
a) Do not feel Do not feel unworthy, for God unworthy, for God Himself who Himself who calls you will calls you will also empower you.also empower you. b)
b) You are all learning and growing in your ability to serve in this new way.You are all learning and growing in your ability to serve in this new way.
∗
∗ Look to growing in confidence and capability each new day.Look to growing in confidence and capability each new day.
3.
3. You yourselves are all You yourselves are all under pastoral care, not only under pastoral care, not only for your personal for your personal lives but also lives but also forfor your service.
your service. a)
a) We leaders in CFC We leaders in CFC are not serving in isare not serving in isolation from one another, but olation from one another, but rather as arather as a network of pastoral leaders serving together.
network of pastoral leaders serving together.
∗
∗ Encourage one another.Encourage one another. ∗
∗ Learn from one another.Learn from one another. ∗
∗ Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit.Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit.
b)
b) Just be open to those over you regarding any aspect of your service.Just be open to those over you regarding any aspect of your service. B.
B. How should How should you relate you relate to your to your Unit Head?Unit Head? 1.
1. Understand Understand your your relationship relationship with with him.him. a)
a) He's commHe's committed to itted to you and you and members of members of your group. your group. You can You can call on call on him anytimhim anytime fore for support, advice or prayers. He is for you.
support, advice or prayers. He is for you. b)
b) His desire His desire is to is to see see you dyou develop evelop and and grow in grow in your service your service and and in youin your life r life and to and to seesee your members grow in the Lord.
your members grow in the Lord. c)
∗
∗ Don't think that you've always got to give a good report. We are looking for aDon't think that you've always got to give a good report. We are looking for a
realistic assessment to see God's will regarding your group. realistic assessment to see God's will regarding your group.
∗
∗ Don't protect your men from him.Don't protect your men from him.
2.
2. What What to talk to talk to your to your Unit Unit Head about?Head about? a)
a) The The Household.Household.
∗
∗ Are the men Are the men relating to one another relating to one another well? well? The women?The women? ∗
∗ Are they free to share with one another?Are they free to share with one another? ∗
∗ Do they worship freely together?Do they worship freely together? ∗
∗ Do they ever do anything together outside of the household meeting?Do they ever do anything together outside of the household meeting? ∗
∗ How is their general attitude towards CFC?How is their general attitude towards CFC?
b)
b) Individual members.Individual members.
∗
∗ How are they growing in Christ?How are they growing in Christ? ∗
∗ Daily prayer?Daily prayer? ∗
∗ Relationship with spouse? Relationship with spouse? With With children?children? ∗
∗ Relationship with authority? Yours and overall CFC?Relationship with authority? Yours and overall CFC? ∗
∗ Problems if any.Problems if any.
c)
c) Developing a Developing a pastoral pastoral vision vision for for the household.the household.
∗
∗ Have some goals in mind for the whole household and discuss them with yourHave some goals in mind for the whole household and discuss them with your
Unit Head.
Unit Head. What do What do they need?they need?
∗
∗ Have some goals for the individual Have some goals for the individual men in men in your household. your household. What does What does each oneeach one
need?
need? Do not be Do not be ruled by ruled by what each man what each man wants.wants.
∗
∗ In both, pray and seek God's will.In both, pray and seek God's will.
d)
d) Your Your time time and and service.service.
∗
∗ Do you have enough time for yourself, family, job and service?Do you have enough time for yourself, family, job and service? ∗
∗ What are the extra demands of your household that pulls you down?What are the extra demands of your household that pulls you down? ∗
∗ How How are are you experiencing you experiencing your your service? service? Are Are you you growing growing in in confidence? confidence? DoDo
you need more help? you need more help?
COUPLES FOR CHRIST COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING TALK No. 4 :
TALK No. 4 : BUILDING A RELATIBUILDING A RELATIONSHIP WITH ONSHIP WITH YOUR MEMBERSYOUR MEMBERS Expanded Outline
Expanded Outline A. Introduction. A. Introduction.
1.
1. Your role as Your role as household leader is to household leader is to reach out to your reach out to your members and help members and help move them on move them on inin their relationship with the Lord and as brethren in CFC.
their relationship with the Lord and as brethren in CFC. a)
a) It It involves involves continuing continuing evangelization.evangelization. b)
b) It is based on a personal caring relationship.It is based on a personal caring relationship. 2.
2. Being household Being household leaders involves leaders involves the exercise the exercise of what of what we call we call "evangelistic headship"."evangelistic headship". B.
B. Elements Elements of of evangelistic evangelistic headship. headship. 1 1 Thes Thes 2:7-12.2:7-12. 1.
1. Gentleness Gentleness (v.7).(v.7). a)
a) Do not Do not come down come down too hard too hard on your on your member's member's shortcomings.shortcomings.
∗
∗ Do not be abrasive or inflexible.Do not be abrasive or inflexible.
b)
b) Be like a "nursing mother".Be like a "nursing mother".
∗
∗ Be loving and gentle.Be loving and gentle.
∗
∗ But be firm if But be firm if there is a need. there is a need. Even a mother corrects.Even a mother corrects.
2.
2. Personal Personal concern concern (v.8).(v.8). a)
a) It It is not is not just just a functional a functional relationship.relationship.
∗
∗ You need to be friends.You need to be friends.
∗
∗ Take an interest in their interests.Take an interest in their interests.
-
- Ask Ask about about their their children, children, anniversary, anniversary, work, work, personal personal problems, problems, etc.etc. -
- Keep Keep a a journal journal so so you you can can keep keep track.track.
∗
∗ Behind it all is setting your heart on them to love them.Behind it all is setting your heart on them to love them.
b)
∗
∗ State your commitment to them and coState your commitment to them and communicate your desire to serve them.mmunicate your desire to serve them.
∗
∗ Make clear the relationship is one of brotherhood and service to them.Make clear the relationship is one of brotherhood and service to them.
3.
3. Diligence Diligence and and perseverance perseverance (v.9).(v.9). a)
a) Always be Always be reaching out treaching out to them. o them. It is It is a battle a battle to change people to change people and it and it will not will not justjust happen easily.
happen easily.
∗
∗ Exercise pastoral patience.Exercise pastoral patience.
b)
b) Be open and available. Be open and available. Let them have access to you.Let them have access to you.
∗
∗ But teach them to be reasonable in seeking you out (e.g., not in the middle of theBut teach them to be reasonable in seeking you out (e.g., not in the middle of the
night, except if there is a real emergency). night, except if there is a real emergency). c)
c) Meet Meet outside outside regular regular meetings.meetings.
∗
∗ When the opportunity presents itself (or make your own opportunities), visit themWhen the opportunity presents itself (or make your own opportunities), visit them
at home or at work. at home or at work.
∗
∗ Have recreation together.Have recreation together.
4.
4. Integrity Integrity (v.10).(v.10). a)
a) You must You must be a be a person who person who is beyond is beyond reproach.reproach. b)
b) It is It is not just not just a question a question of not of not sinning, but sinning, but of not of not doing anything doing anything that can that can subject yousubject you to criticism.
to criticism.
∗
∗ E.g., E.g., Borrowing Borrowing money money from from your your members.members.
Lording it over them. Lording it over them. Being critical of CFC. Being critical of CFC. 5.
5. Encouragement Encouragement (v.11-12).(v.11-12). a)
a) Just Just like like a a father father to to his his children.children.
∗
∗ Provide encouragement, comfort, support.Provide encouragement, comfort, support.
b)
b) Help them to know themselves.Help them to know themselves.
∗
∗
∗ Give them insights on why they do the things that they do.Give them insights on why they do the things that they do.
∗
∗ Observe and notice them (how they pray, how they behave at meetings, how theyObserve and notice them (how they pray, how they behave at meetings, how they
handle their daily life, etc.) and give inputs from time to time. handle their daily life, etc.) and give inputs from time to time. c)
c) Keep in Keep in touch with touch with their concerns their concerns (family, (family, health, school, health, school, occupation, etc.).occupation, etc.).
∗
∗ Communicate to them that you are aware of these.Communicate to them that you are aware of these.
∗
∗ Let them know that you are not just concerned about what you want them to doLet them know that you are not just concerned about what you want them to do
but also about their concerns. but also about their concerns. d)
d) Be able to Be able to laugh and cry laugh and cry with them. with them. Identify with Identify with their joys their joys and sorrows. and sorrows. Empathize.Empathize.
∗
∗ When someone first opens up, be able to hold them up with your support.When someone first opens up, be able to hold them up with your support.
∗
∗ They should not experience their life changing just independently, but rather, youThey should not experience their life changing just independently, but rather, you
carry them in your heart, and this is sometimes expressed to them. carry them in your heart, and this is sometimes expressed to them. An important
An important and interesting and interesting note: note: Notice that Notice that the above involves the above involves the whole the whole range of range of caringcaring that happens within
that happens within a family. a family. The household leaders in The household leaders in certain ways act certain ways act out the roles out the roles ofof mother, brother and father to their members.
mother, brother and father to their members. C.
C. The effect The effect of evangelistic headship. of evangelistic headship. What is What is the desired the desired response from response from the members?the members? 1. Love.
1. Love. a)
a) This is This is the call the call to every Chrito every Christian. stian. We are We are all to all to love one another love one another as brothers as brothers andand sisters in Christ.
sisters in Christ. b)
b) But But the the caring caring relationship relationship should should reinforce reinforce and and strengthen strengthen the the members' members' love love forfor their leaders.
their leaders. 2. Confidence. 2. Confidence.
a)
a) This frThis frees them ees them to give to give themselves over themselves over to your to your headship.headship.
∗
∗ They can let go of their selfThey can let go of their self-protectiveness. -protectiveness. They can put down their They can put down their defenses.defenses.
∗
∗ It frees them to give of their whole selves.It frees them to give of their whole selves.
b)
b) This opens them to receive advice and wisdom from you.This opens them to receive advice and wisdom from you.
∗
∗
∗ It does not become necessary to question all you say.It does not become necessary to question all you say.
c)
c) As you experience them As you experience them putting more confidence in putting more confidence in you, you become more free you, you become more free toto give them more that you yourself have learned.
give them more that you yourself have learned. 3. Respect.
3. Respect. a)
a) It is It is not enough to not enough to be loved. be loved. You need to You need to be respected, if be respected, if you are to you are to be effective inbe effective in helping them to change.
helping them to change. b)
b) How do you earn respect?How do you earn respect?
∗
∗ Show them you respect them.Show them you respect them.
-
- Don't Don't put put them them down.down. -
- Listen Listen carefully.carefully.
∗
∗ Be straightforward and honest.Be straightforward and honest.
-
- Don't Don't beat beat around around the the bush.bush. -
- Let Let them them know know what what your your mind mind really really is.is. -
- Give Give them them a a fair fair and and honest honest evaluation.evaluation.
∗
∗ Be able to be firm when something needs to change.Be able to be firm when something needs to change.
-
- Be wiBe willing lling to to take a take a stand, stand, even though even though sometimes sometimes you can you can make make concessions.concessions. -
- You don't You don't just give just give out love, out love, advice, etc., advice, etc., but you but you also need also need to correct to correct andand admonish when necessary.
admonish when necessary.
∗
∗ Don't be a know-it-all.Don't be a know-it-all.
-
- You You don't don't know know everything everything and and you you can't can't solve solve all all problems. problems. Be Be willing willing toto say "I don't know".
say "I don't know". -
- Don't Don't bluff. bluff. It It will will boomerang boomerang and and you you end end up up with with even leven less ess credibility.credibility. If the above desired response from members happens, then the result is that they become If the above desired response from members happens, then the result is that they become more open to the word of God through you. They become more open to the work of the Holy more open to the word of God through you. They become more open to the work of the Holy Spirit. 1 Thes 2:13.
Spirit. 1 Thes 2:13. D. Conclusion.
D. Conclusion. 1.
1. You have the privilege You have the privilege to guide new CFC to guide new CFC members in members in their new life their new life in the Lord.in the Lord. a)
a) Take Take this this responsibility responsibility seriously.seriously. b)
b) Put your faith in Jesus.Put your faith in Jesus. 2.
2. People grow in People grow in confidence as they confidence as they see you grow see you grow in holiness in holiness and in Chrisand in Christian character.tian character. a)
∗
∗ Be an example and a model to others.Be an example and a model to others.
b)
b) They must know that you can take them as far as God has taken you.They must know that you can take them as far as God has taken you.
∗
COUPLES FOR CHRIST COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING TALK No. 5
TALK No. 5 : : ZEAL FOR ZEAL FOR RIGHTEOUSNESSRIGHTEOUSNESS Expanded Outline
Expanded Outline A. Introduction. A. Introduction.
1.
1. We must be We must be men and women who men and women who passionately want to passionately want to promote God's promote God's kingdom on earth.kingdom on earth. Thus, our hearts should be troubled whenever we find anything that is not right with Thus, our hearts should be troubled whenever we find anything that is not right with God.
God. 2.
2. Our "goodness" could be mOur "goodness" could be measured by the extent to easured by the extent to which we feel a which we feel a pure and growingpure and growing hatred for evil.
hatred for evil. B.
B. Four Four kinds kinds of of "good" people."good" people. 1.
1. Those who do Those who do no evil, no evil, yet do not yet do not devote themselves devote themselves faithfully to faithfully to doing good.doing good. a)
a) They They lack lack other, other, more more positive positive virtues.virtues. b)
b) Just like baptized infants.Just like baptized infants. 2.
2. Those who refrain Those who refrain from evil and from evil and also devote themselves also devote themselves to frequent good deeds, to frequent good deeds, yet,yet, while they do not neglect to do what good they can, they see no need to do more than while they do not neglect to do what good they can, they see no need to do more than that.
that. a)
a) Just Just so much so much prayer, service, prayer, service, almsgiving, etc., almsgiving, etc., are enough are enough for them. for them. They do They do not burnnot burn with a desire for a more complete
with a desire for a more complete holiness.holiness. b)
b) They They remain remain quietly quietly content content with with this this spiritual spiritual level, level, and and abandon abandon higher higher things things toto others.
others. 3.
3. Those who detest Those who detest and avoid wand avoid wrongdoing, fervently comrongdoing, fervently commit themsmit themselves to elves to whatever goodwhatever good they can do, and desire greater personal holiness, yet lack equal concern for the holiness they can do, and desire greater personal holiness, yet lack equal concern for the holiness of others.
of others. a)
a) They eagerly desire the sThey eagerly desire the spiritual and internal piritual and internal virtues --fondness fvirtues --fondness for prayer, intimateor prayer, intimate knowledge of God, experience of divine love.
knowledge of God, experience of divine love. b)
b) However However they they are are not not inflamed inflamed with with fervent fervent zeal zeal against against the the vices vices of of others others or or thethe dangers of their sins. They want everyone to be good and live in grace, but feel no dangers of their sins. They want everyone to be good and live in grace, but feel no wound of sorrow when they see the opposite.
wound of sorrow when they see the opposite. c)
people in order to preserve their own peace. people in order to preserve their own peace.
4. Those who avoid wrongdoing, practice virtue, are afire with zeal for personal 4. Those who avoid wrongdoing, practice virtue, are afire with zeal for personal
righteousness, and have zeal for winning souls. righteousness, and have zeal for winning souls. a)
a) They obtain no They obtain no comfort from comfort from progress toward progress toward their own their own salvation unless salvation unless they are alsothey are also leading others to God.
leading others to God. b)
b) Jesus' example: Jesus' example: Although Although he always he always had had complete joy complete joy in himself, in himself, he wahe was not s not contentcontent only to possess glory, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, in order to only to possess glory, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, in order to lead many others
lead many others into glory with into glory with him. him. Phil 2:7.Phil 2:7. c)
c) As household As household heads, we heads, we should be should be this 4th this 4th kind of kind of "good" Christian. "good" Christian. These make These make thethe best persons for leadership in CFC, given our evangelistic mission.
best persons for leadership in CFC, given our evangelistic mission. C.
C. Zeal for righteousness stems Zeal for righteousness stems from the very basis of from the very basis of our Christianity, namely, love of our Christianity, namely, love of God andGod and of neighbor.
of neighbor. 1.
1. A person who loves A person who loves God not only desirGod not only desires to enjoy his es to enjoy his goodness and be close goodness and be close to him, butto him, but loves to see his will accomplished, his worship carried out and his honor exalted. He loves to see his will accomplished, his worship carried out and his honor exalted. He wants all people to know, love, serve and honor God more than anything else.
wants all people to know, love, serve and honor God more than anything else. 2.
2. A person who loves A person who loves his neighbor desires his neighbor desires not only health and prnot only health and prosperity for himosperity for him, but even, but even more, eternal salvation.
more, eternal salvation. 3.
3. Love of God and neighbor sLove of God and neighbor should cause us to hould cause us to mourn if God mourn if God is dishonored or is dishonored or disobeyed,disobeyed, and if others are not
and if others are not in right relationship with Him.in right relationship with Him. 4.
4. Although all Christians Although all Christians should love their neighbor, this should love their neighbor, this love for others is love for others is especiallyespecially necessary for those who are leaders.
necessary for those who are leaders. a)
a) Their position demands Their position demands that they act on that they act on God's behalf. Thus God's behalf. Thus their hearts stheir hearts should be ashould be as much moved by love of righteousness and hatred of evil as is God's heart.
much moved by love of righteousness and hatred of evil as is God's heart. b)
b) Ps Ps 45:8. 45:8. "You "You love love justice justice and and hate hate wickedness; wickedness; therefore therefore God, God, your your God, God, hashas anointed you..."
anointed you..."
D. Areas of concern (exercise of zeal) in our own lives and in the lives of our household D. Areas of concern (exercise of zeal) in our own lives and in the lives of our household
members. members. 1.
1. Growth Growth in in love love for for God God and and for for neighbor. neighbor. Selflessness.Selflessness. 2.
2. Active partiActive participation in cipation in the lithe life of fe of the Church. the Church. Frequent reception Frequent reception of the of the sacraments.sacraments. 3.
a)
a) All CFC mAll CFC members have freely embers have freely and willingly made and willingly made their commitment their commitment to the Lord to the Lord andand to the
to the body. body. They should liThey should live up to ve up to it.it. b)
b) Deut 23:22-24.Deut 23:22-24.
4.
4. Areas not Areas not essential for essential for salvation but desisalvation but desirable for rable for making spiritual making spiritual progress.progress. a)
a) Faithfulness Faithfulness to to and and punctuality punctuality in in meetings.meetings.
∗
∗ Household leaders show tHousehold leaders show the way. he way. If you have no If you have no enthusiasm, neither wienthusiasm, neither will yourll your
members. members. b)
b) Exercise of spiritual gifts.Exercise of spiritual gifts.
∗
∗ Charismatic dimension. Charismatic dimension. CFC's brand CFC's brand of spiritof spirituality.uality.
c)
c) Financial Financial support support for for CFC.CFC.
∗
∗ This is not part of our covenant, but it is part of being a good mature Christian.This is not part of our covenant, but it is part of being a good mature Christian.
∗
∗ The money is used for evangelization, thus for winning souls.The money is used for evangelization, thus for winning souls.
d)
d) Submission Submission to to headship.headship.
∗
∗ Authority is a gift from God which is given to us as a means/help to move us onAuthority is a gift from God which is given to us as a means/help to move us on
in our spiritual lives. in our spiritual lives. e)
e) Avoidance of Avoidance of a a critical critical spirit spirit or or attitude.attitude. E.
E. Two Two specific specific applications: applications: Correction Correction and Encouragement.and Encouragement. Correction
Correction 1.
1. At the heart At the heart of scriptural of scriptural appreciation for correction appreciation for correction is a hatred is a hatred of sin, and of sin, and a realization ofa realization of human fallibility.
human fallibility. a)
a) Ps Ps 141:5.141:5. b)
b) Thus zeal + love of neighbor = correction.Thus zeal + love of neighbor = correction. 2.
2. Deal Deal with with the the wrongdoing wrongdoing of of members.members. a)
a) Be Be simple simple and and straightforward. straightforward. Lk Lk 17:3.17:3. b)
∗
∗ Do not condone any wrongdoing nor concede that any wrongdoing is acceptable.Do not condone any wrongdoing nor concede that any wrongdoing is acceptable.
∗
∗ Do not allow any wrongdoing to remain unrepented of or uncorrected.Do not allow any wrongdoing to remain unrepented of or uncorrected. ∗
∗ Do not remain silent and pretend to know nothing when you ought to speak out.Do not remain silent and pretend to know nothing when you ought to speak out.
∗
∗ Be in touch with your Unit Head.Be in touch with your Unit Head.
c)
c) Be Be authoritative.authoritative.
∗
∗ Your authority comes from God and is to be exercised in the community whereYour authority comes from God and is to be exercised in the community where
we have committed ourselves to. we have committed ourselves to.
∗
∗ Look to correction as a pastoral tool for growth.Look to correction as a pastoral tool for growth.
3.
3. Your Your accountability accountability as as head head to to correct.correct. a)
a) You are God's representatives. You You are God's representatives. You have been given responsibility over God'shave been given responsibility over God's people. Your
people. Your members look members look up to up to you and you and obey you obey you because you because you have the have the Lord'sLord's place.
place.
∗
∗ Do not allow vices and bad practices to grow.Do not allow vices and bad practices to grow.
∗
∗ Do what you can to overcome wrongdoing.Do what you can to overcome wrongdoing.
b)
b) If you neglect your duty, you will be accountable to God.If you neglect your duty, you will be accountable to God.
∗
∗ You would be guilty of You would be guilty of neglect for not doing neglect for not doing what your duty called what your duty called for. for. WisdomWisdom
6:4-5. 6:4-5.
∗
∗ You would bear the guilt for the faults of your subordinates, in that you could andYou would bear the guilt for the faults of your subordinates, in that you could and
should have corrected
should have corrected them but them but didn't. didn't. Ezek 33:8.Ezek 33:8. c)
c) This is not This is not to scare you, but to scare you, but to show the to show the seriousness of your seriousness of your work.work.
∗
∗ Note: Note: Some Some will will prefer prefer not not to to be be household household leaders leaders in in order order to to evadeevade
accountability.
accountability. However, such persons need to realize However, such persons need to realize that if they have that if they have a gift ofa gift of leadership from God, they will still be acc
leadership from God, they will still be accountable for not using it.ountable for not using it. Encouragement
Encouragement 1.
1. You You also also have have a a duty duty to to encourage.encourage. a)
b)
b) Not just criticism, but praise.Not just criticism, but praise. 2.
2. At the At the start of start of Jesus' Jesus' ministry, ministry, God encouraged himGod encouraged him.. a)
a) Mt Mt 3:17.3:17.
∗
∗ Again at Again at transfiguration. transfiguration. Mt 17:5.Mt 17:5.
b)
b) God is the source of all encouragement. God is the source of all encouragement. Rom 15:5.Rom 15:5.
∗
∗ We follow His ways.We follow His ways.
3.
3. "Encourage" is "Encourage" is a compound of a compound of two words": two words": "en" = "en" = to put to put in or in or into, and into, and "courage" ="courage" = confidence, strength.
confidence, strength. a)
a) Thus literally, Thus literally, to encourage to encourage means to means to put courage put courage into someone.into someone.
∗
∗ An encouraging person builds up and strengthens people by his presence andAn encouraging person builds up and strengthens people by his presence and
words. words.
∗
∗ He supports, not weakens.He supports, not weakens.
b)
b) How to encourage:How to encourage:
∗
∗ Comfort.Comfort.
∗
∗ Support (situation where one cannot cope). Through words, advice, prayers or justSupport (situation where one cannot cope). Through words, advice, prayers or just
presence. presence.
∗
∗ Urge on/exhort. Motivate. Urge on/exhort. Motivate. Not sNot so much o much comfort, comfort, but challenge.but challenge. ∗
∗ Praise. Praise. E.g., E.g., honoring.honoring.
4.
4. There is There is plenty of plenty of bad news bad news around. around. And how And how quickly people quickly people respond to respond to discouragingdiscouraging news.
news. a)
a) God looks fGod looks for eternal or eternal optimists, who optimists, who can share that can share that spirit wispirit with others.th others.
∗
∗ God's news is good news, not bad. God's news is good news, not bad. We are to bring the good news of liWe are to bring the good news of liberty, joy,berty, joy,
release, hope, comfort, etc. release, hope, comfort, etc. b)
b) We cannot encourage enough.We cannot encourage enough.
∗
∗
∗ Our encouragement helps people to discover themselves, to appreciate who theyOur encouragement helps people to discover themselves, to appreciate who they
are. are. c)
c) Thus, our Thus, our basic attitude basic attitude as household leaders as household leaders needs to needs to be one of be one of encouragement.encouragement.
∗
∗ Not always correcting, but kindness, encou Not always correcting, but kindness, encouragement, rejoicing over what the Lordragement, rejoicing over what the Lord
has already done. has already done.
∗
∗ Love them so they move on.Love them so they move on.
5.
5. A fA fruit ruit of encouragement of encouragement is is growth in growth in perseverance. perseverance. Perseverance is Perseverance is a Chrisa Christian qualitytian quality especially needed to
especially needed to overcome problems, overcome problems, obstacles and obstacles and trials. trials. We ourselves We ourselves need toneed to persevere in the ministry of encouragement.
persevere in the ministry of encouragement. F. Conclusion.
F. Conclusion. 1.
1. There are There are four four types types of of good people.good people. a)
a) (Quickly (Quickly describe describe these).these). b)
b) Household leaders should strive to be the 4th type.Household leaders should strive to be the 4th type.
∗
∗ Because this is ideal for headship.Because this is ideal for headship.
∗
∗ This is an assurance that all household members will be helped to move on.This is an assurance that all household members will be helped to move on.
3.
3. God uses God uses our zeal our zeal for rifor righteousness to ghteousness to help other help other people.people. a)
a) Through evangelization, Through evangelization, bringing bringing God's God's life life to to others.others. b)
COUPLES FOR CHRIST COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING TALK No.
TALK No. 6 : 6 : GOOD EXAMPLEGOOD EXAMPLE Expanded Outline
Expanded Outline A. Introduction. A. Introduction.
1.
1. We sWe should be hould be models models for for our household our household members.members. a)
a) We should We should be living wibe living witnesses to tnesses to the new lifthe new life in Chre in Christ.ist. b)
b) The words we teach should be reflected in our actions.The words we teach should be reflected in our actions. 2.
2. Our Our own own models:models: a)
a) Jesus Jesus made made his his life life and worand words ds an example. an example. Jn Jn 13:15.13:15. b)
b) Paul also pointed to the witness of his life. 1 Cor 11:1.Paul also pointed to the witness of his life. 1 Cor 11:1. c)
c) Both recognized Both recognized that actions that actions speak louder speak louder than words.than words. d)
d) They're no They're no longer physically longer physically present. present. Now we're Now we're the ones the ones on the on the firing line.firing line.
B.
B. Four aspects Four aspects of being of being a good a good example.example. 1.
1. Conformity of Conformity of oneself to oneself to the observance of the observance of everything that everything that makes up makes up life in life in CFC.CFC. a)
a) The The covenant covenant of of CFC.CFC. b)
b) Our Christian culture in CFC.Our Christian culture in CFC.
∗
∗ faithfulness to meetingsfaithfulness to meetings ∗
∗ punctuality punctuality ∗
∗ affection for brethrenaffection for brethren ∗
∗ speechspeech ∗
∗ financial supportfinancial support
c)
c) If we don't If we don't live out our covenant live out our covenant and culture, we can't and culture, we can't expect our members expect our members to do so.to do so. 2.
2. Humility. Humility. Be Be humble humble in in conduct.conduct. a)
∗
∗ Rather, assume the posture of a Rather, assume the posture of a servant.servant.
∗
∗ You have been given a position. You have been given a position. But it's the position But it's the position of a valet, not a manager.of a valet, not a manager.
b)
b) See to it that your household members have ready access to you.See to it that your household members have ready access to you.
∗
∗ Be available to them when you are needed.Be available to them when you are needed.
Note: But teach them also to be reasonable as to time. Note: But teach them also to be reasonable as to time.
∗
∗ Be pleasant in speech; listen patiently.Be pleasant in speech; listen patiently. ∗
∗ Be more loved than feared.Be more loved than feared.
c)
c) Don't Don't be be a a know-it-all.know-it-all.
∗
∗ Note: It is not expected of you to know everything. Note: It is not expected of you to know everything.
d)
d) Foster Foster total dependence total dependence on God. on God. Realize that Realize that without God without God we are we are nothing.nothing. 3. Maturity.
3. Maturity. a)
a) In In personal personal conduct.conduct.
∗
∗ Don't act Don't act lightly. lightly. Be serious. Be serious. Don't Don't behave like behave like a tra trifler. ifler. E.g., making E.g., making silly silly jokesjokes
or antics. or antics.
∗
∗ While you want to be more loved than feared, there should also be a certainWhile you want to be more loved than feared, there should also be a certain
amount of "fear" or reverence for you. amount of "fear" or reverence for you.
∗
∗ Be authoritative when necessary. Be authoritative when necessary. Know that your leaders iKnow that your leaders in CFC are backing youn CFC are backing you
up. up.
∗
∗ Don't play favorites. Do nothing to cause a member Don't play favorites. Do nothing to cause a member to feel that you scorn to feel that you scorn him orhim or
that you arbitrarily prefer others. All should be able to trust you and confide in that you arbitrarily prefer others. All should be able to trust you and confide in you as their best friend.
you as their best friend. b)
b) In attitude toward your work.In attitude toward your work.
∗
∗ Be serious regarding your being a household leader. It's important to yourBe serious regarding your being a household leader. It's important to your
members, because the household you lead is where they draw support for their members, because the household you lead is where they draw support for their Christian life.
Christian life.
∗
∗ Look on your work as an opportunity to move people on.Look on your work as an opportunity to move people on.
∗
will assign or ask another person to handle your household. will assign or ask another person to handle your household.
∗
∗ Prepare for your meetings.Prepare for your meetings.
c)
c) In In judgment. judgment. Grow Grow in in wisdom.wisdom.
∗
∗ The value The value of wisdom of wisdom in Scripture. in Scripture. Prov 3:13-15. Prov 3:13-15. An ideal An ideal of life.of life. ∗
∗ Wisdom is practical understanding that comes from God, about living or doingWisdom is practical understanding that comes from God, about living or doing
something.
something. It It is is not not an an academic academic or or theoretical theoretical understanding. understanding. It It is is a a usefuluseful knowledge of the inner workings of something.
knowledge of the inner workings of something. -
- Hebrew Hebrew "chokmah" "chokmah" -- -- skill skill of of a a craftsman.craftsman. -
- Wisdom Wisdom concerned mainly concerned mainly with with the skithe skill ll of sof successful luccessful living, e.g., iving, e.g., ChristianChristian personal relationships, finance, speech, relationship to God.
personal relationships, finance, speech, relationship to God.
∗
∗ But not just wisdom about living, but household leaders need pastoral wisdom, aBut not just wisdom about living, but household leaders need pastoral wisdom, a
practical understanding
practical understanding of how of how to build up to build up the body the body of Christ, how of Christ, how to care for to care for thethe lives of Christians.
lives of Christians.
∗
∗ How to acquire wisdom?How to acquire wisdom?
-
- Basically Basically be be rightly rightly related related to to God. God. Prov Prov 9:10.9:10. -
- Like Like Solomon, Solomon, ask ask for for it. it. Pray Pray for for it. it. Jas Jas 1:5-6.1:5-6. -
- Learn Learn from from the the Scriptures.Scriptures. -
- Learn Learn from from CFC CFC (teachings (teachings & & elders). elders). Prov Prov 13:14-20.13:14-20. 4. Integrity.
4. Integrity. a)
a) Integrity is the refusIntegrity is the refusal to justify, rationalize al to justify, rationalize or excuse any motivation, thought oror excuse any motivation, thought or behavior which is inconsistent with the commands and principles of God's Word. behavior which is inconsistent with the commands and principles of God's Word.
∗
∗ Note: Note: We We are are not not talking talking of of sinlessness sinlessness (we (we all all still still fall fall into into sin), sin), but but refusal refusal toto
justify, etc. In other words, we can make mistakes; but how do we handle these? justify, etc. In other words, we can make mistakes; but how do we handle these?
∗
∗ E.g., David. Ps 78:70-72. E.g., David. Ps 78:70-72. The Lord The Lord chose David chose David to sto shepherd his hepherd his people,people,
"according to the integrity of his heart" "according to the integrity of his heart" -
- He He didn't didn't kill kill King King Saul, Saul, because because Saul Saul was was chosen chosen by by God.God. -
- He didn't He didn't excuse his excuse his sin sin with with Bathsheba when Bathsheba when his shis sin was in was exposed by exposed by Nathan.Nathan. b)
b) God is more concerned about integrity than perfection.God is more concerned about integrity than perfection.
∗
∗ Justifying improper motivations is worse than the wrong motivations themselves.Justifying improper motivations is worse than the wrong motivations themselves.
Rationalizing unChristian thoughts is worse than the original thoughts. Excusing Rationalizing unChristian thoughts is worse than the original thoughts. Excusing
bad behavior is worse than the behavior itself. bad behavior is worse than the behavior itself.
∗
∗ Have you ever promised to do something, you didn't do it, and then tried toHave you ever promised to do something, you didn't do it, and then tried to
excuse yourself? Rather than just admit your shortcoming? excuse yourself? Rather than just admit your shortcoming?
∗
∗ Integrity is something that is in the very fiber of a man's being. It is of the veryIntegrity is something that is in the very fiber of a man's being. It is of the very
nature and foundation of God's kingdom. nature and foundation of God's kingdom.
∗
∗ A person can have skill, education, even God's anointing, but still without basicA person can have skill, education, even God's anointing, but still without basic
integrity. integrity. c)
c) Integrity Integrity is is manifested manifested in in the the 3Ms:3Ms:
∗
∗ Morals.Morals.
-
- Prov Prov 11:3. 11:3. We We do do not not need need to to pray pray about, about, say, say, watching watching x-rated x-rated films,films, bribery, tax evasion, etc. These should be clearly wrong.
bribery, tax evasion, etc. These should be clearly wrong. -
- We We should not should not just just keep a keep a minimum minimum standard of standard of good conduct. good conduct. Some people'sSome people's attitude seems to be: how much can I get away with?
attitude seems to be: how much can I get away with?
∗
∗ Marriage.Marriage.
-
- A A leader prleader proves himoves himself self in in the the care of care of his his wife wife and children. and children. 1 1 Tim Tim 3:5.3:5. -
- Do all Do all things things in your in your own famown family ily that you that you tell tell other other men men to do to do in in theirs. theirs. Or Or atat least you are sincerely trying.
least you are sincerely trying. -
- Give the Give the same quality same quality of care of care to your to your wife and wife and children that children that you give you give toto others. At times we care for our household members but neglect our family. others. At times we care for our household members but neglect our family. Never forget that CFC is family-oriented.
Never forget that CFC is family-oriented.
∗
∗ Ministry.Ministry.
-
- Do Do not not compromise compromise on on truth, truth, on on God's God's word, word, etc.etc. -
- Say Say no no to to certain certain needs needs if if our our priorities priorities require require us us elsewhere.elsewhere. -
- Be open Be open to to brethren brethren for for scrutiny scrutiny and correction and correction (esp. (esp. to to your Unit your Unit Head).Head). -
- Avoid Avoid competition competition with with other other household household heads, heads, units, units, leaders.leaders. -
- Make decisions Make decisions based on based on standards standards of God's of God's word word and direction and direction of of the Holythe Holy Spirit, not what will please others or how much difficulty you will encounter. Spirit, not what will please others or how much difficulty you will encounter. C.
1.
1. Good Good "masters" "masters" generally generally form form good good disciples.disciples. a)
a) People who see a better way of liPeople who see a better way of life exemplified by their household leaders fe exemplified by their household leaders oftenoften become better Christians and better integrated into the life of CFC.
become better Christians and better integrated into the life of CFC. b)
b) It's a new way of life for our people. It's a new way of life for our people. Thus the territory is unfamiliar.Thus the territory is unfamiliar.
∗
∗ You're the one to show You're the one to show them how--as Christians and as CFC.them how--as Christians and as CFC.
2.
2. Verbal iVerbal instruction alone nstruction alone is is inadequate. inadequate. It mIt must ust be accompanied be accompanied by active by active good example.good example. a)
a) Many teachings are Many teachings are and will and will be given in be given in CFC. CFC. But it But it is the is the household head who household head who seessees to it that such teachings are integrated into one's life and fully lived out.
to it that such teachings are integrated into one's life and fully lived out. b)
b) Conversely, Conversely, a a household household head head showing showing bad bad example example will will nullify nullify whatever whatever valuevalue might have been received in a teaching.
might have been received in a teaching. D. Conclusion.
D. Conclusion. 1.
1. The household leaders The household leaders ought to ought to commit themscommit themselves with elves with special determination special determination to formingto forming their members according to the lif
their members according to the life of Christ. e of Christ. Lead them to imitate Lead them to imitate the Lord in everythe Lord in every aspect of their lives.
aspect of their lives. 2.
COUPLES FOR CHRIST COUPLES FOR CHRIST
HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING HOUSEHOLD LEADERS TRAINING TALK No. 7
TALK No. 7 : : SINGLEMINDEDNESSINGLEMINDEDNESS FOR GODS FOR GOD Expanded Outline
Expanded Outline A.
A. Two mTwo men on en on the road the road to Emto Emmaus. maus. Lk 24:13ff.Lk 24:13ff. 1.
1. They seem They seem to to have given have given up. up. They were They were disappointed because disappointed because of of wrong wrong expectationsexpectations (v.21).
(v.21). 2.
2. On the On the positive side, positive side, they went back they went back to the disto the disciples after ciples after breaking bread with breaking bread with Jesus.Jesus. B.
B. Some Some lessons.lessons. 1.
1. We need We need to examine to examine our reasons our reasons for follfor following Jesus.owing Jesus. a)
a) The wrong rThe wrong reason can easily eason can easily lead us lead us to change course. to change course. Jn 6:26-27, Jn 6:26-27, 66-69.66-69. b)
b) John the Baptist condemns superficial and opportunistic "repentance". John the Baptist condemns superficial and opportunistic "repentance". Mt 3:7-10.Mt 3:7-10. c)
c) Looking on Looking on Christianity Christianity as a as a problem-solver. problem-solver. Results Results of such of such an outlook:an outlook:
∗
∗ Disappointment if the problem is not resolved.Disappointment if the problem is not resolved.
∗
∗ Turning away from Jesus once the problem is resolved because there is no longerTurning away from Jesus once the problem is resolved because there is no longer
any need for him. any need for him.
∗
∗ Inability to accept Jesus' hard teachings.Inability to accept Jesus' hard teachings.
2.
2. We need We need to open to open up our up our hearts and hearts and let the let the word of word of God burn God burn in our in our hearts. hearts. This way, This way, ourour motivation becomes pure.
motivation becomes pure. a)
a) The The proper proper attitude: attitude: Phil Phil 3:8.3:8.
∗
∗ Everything else is garbage compared to Christ.Everything else is garbage compared to Christ.
b)
b) We can We can only only be be singleminded for singleminded for God God if our if our vision is vision is clear, if clear, if we kwe know now the placthe place oe off Jesus in our life, if we have a right relationship with him, and if we know where we Jesus in our life, if we have a right relationship with him, and if we know where we are going.
are going. C.
C. How can How can we be we be singleminded fsingleminded for God?or God? 1.