What steps can we take to ensure leaders are "full of wisdom"? Setting the Scriptural Standard “Brothers, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we will appoint to this responsibility.” (Acts 6:3) Why Wisdom Matters • Wisdom is the visible fruit of the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). • Leaders without wisdom mislead the flock (Proverbs 11:14). • Wisdom is proof the Spirit is in charge (James 3:17; Galatians 5:22-23). Step 1 — Pray for God to Grant Wisdom • “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously” (James 1:5). • Churchwide, persistent prayer sets the tone for Spirit-filled leadership (Acts 13:2-3). Step 2 — Measure Candidates by Biblical Qualifications • 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9 outline non-negotiables—blameless character, doctrinal soundness, self-control. • Wisdom is never detached from holiness; character precedes gifting. Step 3 — Look for a Track Record of Spirit-Led Decisions • Past faithfulness predicts future wisdom (Luke 16:10). • Ask: Have they handled smaller responsibilities with discernment? Step 4 — Confirm Saturation in Scripture • “Oh, how I love Your law… You make me wiser than my enemies” (Psalm 119:97-98). • Require regular engagement with the Word—personal study, teaching opportunities, memorization. Step 5 — Test for Humility and Teachability • “With humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2). • Observe responses to correction; wise leaders welcome sharpening (Proverbs 27:17). Step 6 — Establish Plural Accountability • A team of elders provides collective counsel (Acts 14:23). • Shared oversight helps keep individual blind spots in check (Proverbs 15:22). Step 7 — Provide Ongoing Mentoring and Training • Paul continually invested in Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2). • Set up intentional discipleship chains—older, proven leaders guiding newer ones. Step 8 — Encourage Spirit-Dependence, Not Self-Reliance • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). • Corporate worship, fasting, and confession keep leaders aware of their need for divine wisdom. Step 9 — Validate with Congregational Affirmation • Acts 6:5 shows the whole group was pleased with the selections. • Invite congregational testimonies about a candidate’s wisdom in real-life situations. Step 10 — Monitor and Re-Evaluate Regularly • Ongoing fruit inspection (Matthew 7:17-20) guards the flock and preserves the leader. • Provide periodic reviews, sabbaticals, and counseling to maintain freshness of wisdom. Applying these steps keeps the church in line with Acts 6:3—raising up leaders “full of the Spirit and wisdom” who can shepherd God’s people with clarity, courage, and Christ-honoring insight. |
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