Some Spiritual Gift

Spiritual leaders have the privilege to impart something special.

"For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I mention you always in my prayers, asking that somehow by God's will I may now at last succeed in coming to you. For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you - that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine." - Romans 1:9-12 ESV

This spiritual gift goes beyond time, care and words. It is an intangible 'something' that can't be replaced.

"Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers." - 1 Timothy 4:14-16 ESV

We live in a time where this is downgraded and minimized. People can focus on falsehood and flaws to the point where this is lost but this is a real dynamic. It is a vital dynamic.

"Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord." - James 5:14 ESV

Why does it say the elders? Can't anyone do this? No. Not just anyone. Not all the time. Some healings are a witness to the assembly that has gathered because of spiritual leadership.

"Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, 'You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,' and, 'The laborer deserves his wages.' Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses." - 1 Timothy 5:17-19 ESV

Spiritual leaders can't act alone. Most will anyway to the best of their ability. Like an ox they will lumber forward. A muzzled ox isn't going to be able to get to the places they need to go.

Double honor isn't for manipulation. No. Never. Not one time.

Double honor is the second look where you pause and say, 'This person has something special from God.' Then you act on that recognition. It isn't bowing and scraping. It isn't worship. Worship is for God alone. It is tangible lasting recognition and support.

Let's look at the first passage again.

"For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I mention you always in my prayers, asking that somehow by God's will I may now at last succeed in coming to you. For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you - that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine." - Romans 1:9-12 ESV

Who is doing this? Who has this mindset? Only a few people do. There are only a handful of people that care for your soul and dig into the storehouse of their life to give something to you. Mark them. Take notice. Give support to them and i'm not just talking about money.

"For an overseer, as God's steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain," - Titus 1:7 ESV

The Greek word translated overseer here is Episkopos (Strong's G1985) and it means 'one who is looking over' the situation. They are a person who sees past the natural. They are a shepherd who is planning past the present pasture to move the sheep into a safe harbor for the next season. They see beyond the marital and financial problem. They give eternal perspective. They yearn for expansion.

Yes. A spiritual leader has something to impart. Help them to get to where they are going. These are the kinds of things that will come up at the reward seat of Christ. It will matter then to God because it matters now.

God. Open our eyes to see beyond ourselves. Help us to be people who nourish a vision. Make us people who honor, love and support others. Give us a larger world that goes beyond our small circle and make us a blessing to those few who labor to make that circle larger and larger.

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