How can we discern God's chosen leaders in our communities today? Looking Back to 1 Kings 1:19 “ ‘He has sacrificed an abundance of oxen, fattened calves, and sheep, and has invited all the sons of the king, Abiathar the priest, and Joab the commander of the army—but he has not invited Solomon your servant.’ ” Observations from the Text • Adonijah’s self-promotion centered on outward displays—lavish sacrifices, influential guests, political maneuvering. • Solomon, the true heir, was deliberately left out. His absence highlights that divine appointment is not always the most visible choice. • The prophet Nathan and Bathsheba recognized a divergence between human showmanship and God’s declared plan (1 Kings 1:11–13). Key Principle: God’s Choice vs. Human Hype • Loud gatherings, large followings, and impressive resumes can mask a lack of divine endorsement. • God often affirms leaders quietly before He reveals them publicly (cf. 1 Samuel 16:6–13; David anointed while ignored by his own family). Signs of a God-Chosen Leader Today 1. Alignment with God’s Word – A leader’s teaching and lifestyle echo scriptural truth (2 Titus 3:16–17). – They uphold the gospel without compromise (Galatians 1:8–9). 2. Servant-Hearted Character – Jesus set the pattern: “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). – Look for humility over self-promotion; Adonijah exalted himself, Solomon waited on God’s timing. 3. Confirmed by God-Fearing Witnesses – Nathan and Zadok validated Solomon (1 Kings 1:32–40). – Today, mature believers and elders recognize and confirm genuine calling (Acts 13:2–3). 4. Fruit of the Spirit – Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). – Consistent fruit outlasts flashy moments. 5. God’s Providential Open Doors – Solomon’s path opened when David publicly declared him king (1 Kings 1:30, 48). – Watch for doors God opens rather than doors leaders force open themselves (Revelation 3:7–8). 6. Endurance Under Testing – Trials refine true leaders (James 1:2–4). – Unlike Adonijah’s momentary rise, God-sent leaders remain steadfast when pressures mount. Practical Steps for Discernment • Immerse in Scripture: Knowing truth equips us to spot counterfeits (Acts 17:11). • Pray for Wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). • Evaluate Motives: Are decisions aimed at God’s glory or personal platform? • Seek Godly Counsel: Invite input from seasoned believers (Proverbs 11:14). • Observe Long-Term Fruit: Time reveals authenticity (Matthew 7:16–20). Encouragement to the Community Just as God secured the throne for Solomon despite Adonijah’s spectacle, He still installs leaders according to His perfect will. When we ground ourselves in Scripture, lean on the Spirit, and look for the quiet marks of Christlike character, we can trust we will recognize—and support—the ones He has truly chosen. |
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