Leadership & Lay Ministry #5 - Be equipped and teachable.
This week we are looking at Leadership and Lay Ministry. Today we see leadership is about being Equipped and Teachable...| Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. (Acts18:24-28) |
When I entered University in 2010 to study theology, I met young men and women passionate about serving God. However, by our third year, some began questioning their calling. The theological knowledge they had acquired made them doubt their earlier preaching and understanding of Scripture. I encouraged them and approached the faculty leadership to explore ways of supporting their ministerial formation.
That experience taught me an important lesson: before becoming leaders, we are called to be disciples, and discipleship is a lifelong journey. No matter how much we know, we must remain humble, equipped and teachable.
Acts 18:24-28 presents Apollos, an educated and eloquent man from Alexandria who possessed extensive knowledge of the Scriptures and spoke passionately about Jesus. However, his understanding was incomplete because he knew only John's baptism. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching, they took him aside and explained God's way more accurately. Despite his education and eloquence, Apollos was willing to learn from others.
This teaches us that spiritual maturity is not measured by how much we know, but also by our willingness to learn. No minister, elder or lay leader possesses complete knowledge. God uses different people to strengthen and equip His Church.
Priscilla's involvement also reminds us that ministry is not restricted by gender, social position or background. Through the priesthood of all believers, God calls women and men to participate in His mission.
Furthermore, being equipped for ministry demands courage. In Acts 18:9, God encouraged Paul: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent."
Today, the Church must courageously proclaim the Gospel and speak against injustice, discrimination and the marginalisation of women, young people and children. Being teachable does not mean remaining silent when truth and justice are threatened.
Acts 18:8 demonstrates the fruit of collaborative ministry. Through Paul's proclamation and the participation of fellow believers, Crispus, his household and many Corinthians believed in the Lord.
As the UPCSA, we are challenged to develop leaders and members who remain humble, teachable and willing to learn from one another, including other churches and theological institutions.
Our calling is not to know everything, but to remain available for God to teach, equip and use us.
Prayer
Lord, give us humble and teachable hearts. Equip us for faithful service, strengthen our courage to proclaim Your truth, and unite us in Your mission. Help us recognise and nurture the gifts of others. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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James Lungu, a minister of word and sacrament currently serving at Kabwata Presbyterian Church in Zambia. I am married to Emelly, and we have four boys: namely Joel, Walinase, Ezra and Vitumbiko. I am a New Testament scholar, and I am passionate about issues of Justice and equal dignity for all.
