Friberg's Friday Favorite

I have been LOVING the Passion '11 project (Here For You). The latest song that is moving in my heart is Spirit Fall. Listen to the build throughout the song. Powerful...

Team Ministry

“So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, ‘It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.’ So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith (Acts 6:2-4, 7 NIV).”

I believe this passage is foundational and compelling to team ministry because the apostles utilized other leaders to accomplish a deeper and broader work. The apostles were able to continue to minister in the exact ways that God had gifted them. The early church could function and work together to accomplish their goal of spreading of good news of Jesus Christ to the nations. The entire leadership team was empowered by the apostles to use their gifts and abilities to help the church. Consistent with George Barna in The Power of Team Leadership, when the apostles combined their skills with the lay leadership, the result was a “…powerful ability to serve beyond what anyone could accomplish alone (p. 27).”

Throughout the beginning chapters of Acts, the apostles witnessed and experienced the power of God in their presence. Many people were being transformed and filled with the Spirit. Numerical growth was occurring in their church and God was moving throughout the land. In Acts 6, the Twelve was confronted with a major decision with regard to the spiritual and physical care that was needed for the many people in their community. While they possessed the ability to manage the church, they decided to use seven other leaders to meet the daily needs of the people.

The apostle’s decision to bring on the additional seven leaders in Acts 6 is a fantastic example on developing and implementing team ministry. By choosing to use the seven men, the apostles opened the door and set the example for training, teaching, and mentoring opportunities for the church. The apostles could focus on the calling that God had for them to study and teach the word of God while implementing a leadership training opportunity for the seven men that were chosen to serve the early church. God blessed their efforts and we are provided with a wonderful example of team ministry.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Random Trivia...

(1) How many hours does it take for a typical 14.5 ounce Yankee candle to burn out?
(2) True or False - Your toothpaste container says that you should call poison control if you accidentally swallow more toothpaste than used for brushing. Additional thoughts?
(3) Finally, your opinion - who makes the best coffee: Folders, Dunkin Donuts, Starbucks, or Caribou?

More than one can answer and thanks for playing!