RPG Adults
CALLED TO SERVE (III)
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14
Nehemiah 3:1-15
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
“Now ye are the body of Christ,
and members in particular.”
CALLED TO SERVE (III)
The building of the wall as recorded in Nehemiah 3 was also a testimony to fruitfulness of concerted effort, and the advantage of organised and focused service. The picture given of the work as outlined in the list of names is one that highlights proper planning and inspirational leadership, pointing to the value of leadership, administration and organisation. It also highlights to us the fruitfulness of committed, united and determined service.
And next unto him… (Neh 3:2). The three-word phrase “and next unto” occurs in verses 2 (twice), 4 (thrice), 5, 7, 9, 10 (twice), 12 and 17. The phrase highlights for us both an aspect of the leadership, administration and organisation of the work as well as the unity and cooperation of the workers. Concerning the leadership and administration of the work, this phrase highlights both the delegation and the supervision of the work. The work was a great undertaking, and it needed all the help that could be gotten. Nehemiah not only inspired and rallied the people to work, but when the people resolved and rose to work, all who availed themselves for the work were assigned specific work.
Nehemiah 3 is also a record of the progress of the work in its individual and assigned parts. There was identification and recognition of those who were working. The nature of the work they were doing and the section in which they were assigned to work were pointed out. The extent and progress of their effort and labours were highlighted. All these pointed to the responsibility of oversight and supervision which must follow that of delegation. This would ensure success of the work undertaken.
The duty of a leader does not end with assigning duties to others. It continues with following up. Nehemiah not only knew the duties assigned, and the people who had joined the work, he also followed the progress of the work and the individual workers in their assignments. Biblical leadership not only assigns, rallies and involves others in God’s work, but also monitors the progress and recognises the effort put in.
THOUGHT: Responsible leadership promotes organised service.
PRAYER: (Pray for your pastors and leaders in church.)