Promotion Among Workers in the Church: A Biblical Perspective
The Bible provides guidance on the topic of promotion among workers in the church. Here are some key principles:
1. Serve with Humility and Excellence
- Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."
- Workers should focus on serving the church and its members faithfully, not on seeking advancement.
2. Recognize God's Sovereignty
- Acts 20:28: "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."
- Promotions are ultimately in the hands of God, who knows the hearts and abilities of his servants.
3. Consider Qualifications and Gifts
- 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9: These passages outline the qualifications for leadership positions in the church, such as character, integrity, and sound doctrine.
- Workers should ascertain their own gifts and calling to ensure they are suited for the role before seeking promotion.
4. Follow the Church's Hierarchy
- Ephesians 4:11-16: "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."
- The church often has an established hierarchy for appointing leaders. Workers should respect this order and seek guidance from those in authority.
5. Encourage and Support Others
- Proverbs 27:1: "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth."
- Instead of competing with others for promotion, workers should focus on encouraging and supporting their fellow laborers.
6. Be Patient and Trustworthy
- James 5:7-8: "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains."
- Workers should not be discouraged if promotion does not come quickly. They should remain patient and continue to serve faithfully.
7. Embrace Servant Leadership
- Mark 10:42-45: "But Jesus called them to him and said, 'You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant.'"
- Leaders in the church are called to serve, not to elevate themselves above others.
Conclusion
Promotion in the church should be based on biblical principles of humility, service, qualifications, and God's sovereignty. Workers should focus on serving faithfully, respecting the church hierarchy, and encouraging their fellow laborers. Ultimately, it is the Lord who appoints and promotes those who are best suited to lead his church.