How can we avoid being "blind guides" in our spiritual leadership today? Setting the Stage: Jesus’ Warning “Disregard them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.” (Matthew 15:14) Symptoms of Blindness in Leadership • Teaching human tradition as divine command (Matthew 15:9) • Outward religiosity masking an unchanged heart (Matthew 15:8) • Ignoring Scripture when it conflicts with personal preference (Mark 7:8) • Leading without dependence on the Holy Spirit (John 16:13) • Refusing correction or accountability (Proverbs 13:10) Guard Our Vision with God’s Word • Daily immersion in Scripture keeps the path lit (Psalm 119:105) • All Scripture equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Like the Bereans, test every teaching against the text (Acts 17:11) Practical ideas: – Read an entire book of the Bible aloud with your team. – Teach verse-by-verse, letting God set the agenda. – Memorize key passages that address current ministry challenges. Depend on the Spirit’s Illumination • “We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.” (1 Corinthians 2:12) • Invite the Spirit to expose blind spots before you speak or act. • Fast occasionally to heighten spiritual sensitivity. Practice Humble Self-Examination • “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Corinthians 13:5) • “Pay close attention to your life and your teaching.” (1 Timothy 4:16) Checklist: – Am I obeying what I teach others to do? – Is my motivation love for Christ or admiration from people? – Do I listen more than I talk? Invite God-Honoring Accountability • “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) • Seek mentors, peers, and even those you lead to speak truth. • Regularly review doctrine, finances, and personal conduct with trusted believers. Prioritize Inner Transformation Over Image • Jesus warns against lip-service religion (Matthew 15:8). • The Spirit’s fruit—love, joy, peace, etc.—validates authentic leadership (Galatians 5:22-23). • Serve rather than demand to be served (Matthew 20:26-28). Summary Checklist: Staying Clear-Sighted □ Submit every belief and practice to Scripture. □ Rely on the Holy Spirit, not clever strategies. □ Keep a repentant, teachable heart. □ Maintain transparent accountability. □ Measure success by spiritual fruit, not statistics. Follow these patterns and you will lead with clear eyes, guiding others safely away from the pit and toward the kingdom’s bright horizon. |
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