In 1 Corinthians 10 the Apostle Paul was encouraging believers to live the Christian life with humility. While Christians enjoy freedom from the oppression often found in religious structure (and in Paul’s day the religious pharisaical structure), Paul wanted the church in Corinth to practice the ideal of valuing the needs of others over the insistence of one’s own rights or needs.
One of the most underestimated values of healthy leadership is humility. In a parallel teaching found in Philippians Paul would write: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…” Philippians 2:3-5
I have often pondered the mindset of humility that we find in Jesus — marveling at his desire to not press his rightful authority and kingship during his earthly ministry, but instead; following his Father’s will to the foot of the cross. And Paul’s challenge to Jesus followers? Have the same mindset as Jesus. Certainly no person (this side of heaven) can live this practice out perfectly — but we are encouraged to live, serve and love, striving for the ideal of considering others over ourselves.
As Paul concludes his teaching in 1 Corinthians he sums up his thoughts with the following words: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 10:31, 33, 11:1
Summarization? Do everything for God’s glory… seek the good of others so that they might know Christ too… and as I seek to follow Jesus myself… do what I am doing. A pretty compelling challenge, don’t you think?
For years, I have been privileged to watch Bart and Candi live out this teaching ideal. From the early days in ministry (when I still had MY hair — I’m not jealous Bart), to the last few months (and that covers 30 years in case you are wondering) — Bart and Candi have loved and led people with humility. They have sought the proliferation of God’s glory… they have celebrated many lives surrendered over to Christ… and as they have followed Jesus they have encouraged others to follow him along with them.
I am deeply appreciative of the investment they have made in Christian Alliance Church these past 29 years, and I am eagerly anticipating how God will continue to use them in the next adventure to come. Today, we certainly thank them for the years of ministry at CAC, but even more so… I am grateful for the example.
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