Definition of Flourish: to be healthy and thriving; to blossom; to be at the height of influence

Introduction: The Bible is very clear when describing the characteristics of spiritual leadership. Spiritual leadership has many faces; such as, a pastor, a father, a mother and really anyone who is a follower of Jesus that has influence over another.

When Looking For Spiritual Leadership:

Consider Their Faithfulness

• Through Their Tendencies (1 Thessalonians 2:1)  (Romans 8:28)

• Through Their Trials (1 Thessalonians 2:2a)

• Through Their Triumphs (1 Thessalonians 2:2b)

Consider Their Purpose

Henry Blackaby in his book Spiritual Leadership gives 5 statements concerning Spiritual Leadership:

1. The spiritual leaders task is to move people from where they are to where God wants them to be. (leading them to Encounter & Experience God)

2. Spiritual leaders must depend on the Holy Spirit.

3. Spiritual leaders are accountable to God.

4. Spiritual leaders can influence all people not just God’s people.

5. Spiritual leaders work from God’s agenda.

• Through Their Message (1 Thessalonians 2:3-4a)

• Through Their Motives (1 Thessalonians 2:4b)

• Through Their Methods

             No Hidden

                  --Words (1 Thessalonians 2:5a) 

                  --Agendas (1 Thessalonians 2:5b) 

                  --Glory (1 Thessalonians 2:6)

Consider Their Attitude

• Through Their Tenderness

                   --Cherishing (1 Thessalonians  2:7)                    

                   --Longing (1 Thessalonians 2:8a)          

                   --Imparting (1 Thessalonians 2:8b)

• Through Their Seriousness

                   --Laboring  (1 Thessalonians 2:9)                       

                   --Behaving  (1 Thessalonians 2:10)

• Through Their Firmness

                   --Exhorting (1 Thessalonians 2:11a)  

                   --Comforting (1 Thessalonians 2:11b)  

                   --Charging (1 Thessalonians 2:11c-12)

Application: When looking for a spiritual leader, what is your criteria?  As a spiritual leader, do you reflect the above characteristic?