How can we guard against questioning God's chosen leaders in our church today? Setting the Scene: Numbers 12:2 “They said, ‘Does the LORD speak only through Moses? Does He not also speak through us?’ And the LORD heard this.” Miriam and Aaron allowed envy to masquerade as spiritual concern. Their words sounded pious, but God read the hidden motive. He immediately defended His chosen servant (vv. 4-10). Recognizing the Heart Behind Criticism • Self-promotion often hides beneath “concern.” • Doubting a leader’s call is ultimately doubting God’s wisdom (Romans 13:1). • God takes personal ownership of His appointments—“Touch not My anointed ones” (1 Chronicles 16:22). Principles for Guarding Our Hearts Today • Remember God’s order - Hebrews 13:17: “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls…” - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13: “Respect those who labor among you… and esteem them very highly in love because of their work.” • Cultivate gratitude - Thank God regularly for pastors, elders, teachers (Philippians 1:3-5). Thanksgiving smothers jealousy. • Check motives before speaking - Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God… see if there is any offensive way in me.” • Speak to God first, then the leader, never to a gossip circle (Matthew 18:15). • Distinguish discernment from distrust - Acts 17:11 commends examining Scripture, not undermining authority. - 1 Corinthians 14:29: prophets are weighed, not ridiculed. Practical Steps for the Church Family • Establish clear lines of communication so concerns reach leaders quickly. • Regularly teach on biblical authority, using narratives like Numbers 12. • Honor leaders publicly—anniversaries, commissionings, testimonies. • Pray corporately for protection from a critical spirit (Ephesians 4:31-32). • Appoint plurality of elders; shared oversight reduces suspicion (Titus 1:5). Balancing Discernment and Submission • When leaders sin openly, Scripture commands loving confrontation (Galatians 2:11-14; 1 Timothy 5:19-20). • When leaders differ on style or preference, yield in love (Romans 14:19). • When teaching contradicts Scripture, obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Promises That Motivate Trust • God disciplines leaders Himself (Numbers 12:9-10; James 3:1). • He shepherds the flock through imperfect under-shepherds (1 Peter 5:2-4). • Submitting invites peace and blessing (Hebrews 13:17b: “…so that they may do this with joy and not groaning, for that would be unprofitable for you.”). |
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