How can church leaders ensure they are not hindering others' spiritual growth? Grasp Jesus’ Warning “ ‘But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces; you yourselves do not enter, nor will you let in those who wish to enter.’ ” (Matthew 23:13) • Jesus is speaking to recognized religious leaders. • The issue is not mere error; it is willful obstruction. • Leaders today must examine anything that “shuts the door” on hungry hearts. Identify Common Roadblocks • Legalistic add-ons (Acts 15:10) • Personal prestige and titles (Matthew 23:5-7) • Neglect of mercy and justice (Matthew 23:23) • Hypocrisy—teaching without doing (Romans 2:21-24) • Tradition elevated over Scripture (Mark 7:8-9) Removing these barriers begins with honest self-evaluation before God’s Word. Cultivate a Servant-Shepherd Heart • “Shepherd God’s flock among you, serving as overseers…not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:2-3) • Embrace Jesus’ model: “Whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.” (Mark 10:44) Practical steps: – Spend unhurried time with people, not just programs. – Listen for wounds and doubts instead of silencing them. – Lead with a towel, not a title. Prioritize God’s Word Above Tradition • “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable…” (2 Timothy 3:16) • Teach expositionally so God’s voice is central, not personal opinions. • Shun manipulation; let the Word convict and free (John 8:31-32). • Regularly audit church practices: are they scriptural or merely comfortable habits? Model Accessible, Authentic Faith • Paul could say, “Follow my example, as I follow Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1) • Authenticity removes intimidation and invites growth. Ways to display it: – Share testimonies of ongoing repentance. – Admit when you don’t know and point people back to Scripture. – Celebrate others’ gifts; don’t compete with them. Create Pathways, Not Barriers • Equip, don’t entertain: “He gave…pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry.” (Ephesians 4:11-12) • Encourage steps of obedience—baptism, service, discipleship relationships. • Simplify structures so every believer can find a place to grow (Colossians 1:28). • Guard against insider language; speak so newcomers grasp the gospel (1 Corinthians 14:9). Stay Accountable and Teachable • “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock.” (Acts 20:28) • Invite feedback from mature believers; welcome correction (Proverbs 27:6). • Remember James 3:1—teachers “will incur a stricter judgment.” • Pursue ongoing training and personal discipleship; leaders must also be led. Encourage Freedom, Guard Against Stumbling • “Let us no longer judge one another; instead, decide not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in a brother’s way.” (Romans 14:13) • Offer clear teaching on doubtful matters but allow liberty where Scripture allows. • Protect the weak in faith; don’t flaunt freedoms that could wound them (1 Corinthians 8:9-13). Remember the Goal • Hebrews 13:17 calls leaders to “watch over” souls “as those who must give an account.” • Aim for every person to stand mature in Christ, not merely present in a pew (Colossians 1:28). • When leaders keep the door wide open to Jesus, the whole church flourishes. |
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