How can we apply 2 Corinthians 11:19 to modern church leadership evaluation? Text in Focus: 2 Corinthians 11:19 “For you gladly tolerate fools, since you are so wise.” Why This Matters for Church Leadership Paul’s sarcasm exposes a serious danger: an uncritical, self-confident church can end up embracing leaders who are, in God’s eyes, “fools.” Applied today, the verse urges congregations to evaluate leaders carefully instead of tolerating whatever sounds impressive. Common Signs of “Foolish” Leadership Today • Boasts in personal charisma, numbers, or experiences rather than Christ (2 Corinthians 10:17; Jeremiah 9:23–24) • Distorts or sidelines Scripture to fit trends (Galatians 1:6–9) • Exploits people financially or emotionally (2 Corinthians 11:20; 1 Peter 5:2–3) • Lacks observable fruit of the Spirit (Matthew 7:15–20; Galatians 5:22–23) • Rejects accountability and correction (Proverbs 12:15; Hebrews 13:17) Scriptural Grid for Testing Leaders • Character before gifting — 1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9 • Sound doctrine — Titus 2:1; Acts 20:27 • Servant-hearted authority — Mark 10:42–45 • Faithful handling of money — 2 Corinthians 8:20–21 • Enduring faithfulness under trial — 2 Timothy 4:5; James 1:12 Practical Steps for Congregations • Compare every teaching with Scripture (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1) • Observe lifestyle consistency over time, not just platform moments (1 Thessalonians 2:10) • Foster plurality of elders to curb personality cults (Acts 14:23; Proverbs 11:14) • Encourage open dialogue and loving correction (Ephesians 4:15) • Pray for discernment and courage to act when standards are not met (Philippians 1:9–10) Encouragement to Walk in Discernment The Lord entrusts His flock with the responsibility to guard against folly masquerading as wisdom. Holding leaders to the clear, literal standards of Scripture protects the church, honors Christ, and ensures that genuine shepherds—those who point to the cross and not to themselves—can flourish among God’s people. |
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