Francis Chan: Humility 2007

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of humility, obedience, and submission to leadership in the church. The teaching highlights the biblical qualifications for elders and the responsibility of the congregation to support and pray for them. It also emphasizes the need to respect and follow the authority of God-appointed leaders, making their position a joy rather than a burden.

Key Scripture References

• 1 Timothy 3:1-7 - This passage outlines the qualifications for overseers (elders) in the church, emphasizing that they must be above reproach, temperate, respectable, hospitable, and able to teach. These characteristics are essential for leaders who will manage God's church.
• Hebrews 13:17 - This verse emphasizes the importance of obeying our leaders and submitting to their authority. It reminds us that they keep watch over us as those who must give an account, and we should make their position a joy rather than a burden by listening to them and following their guidance.
• 1 Peter 5:1-4 - This passage highlights the importance of humility in leadership. It reminds elders that they are not lording it over God's flock but serving as examples to the flock. They should not lord it over those entrusted to them, but rather serve with humility and gentleness.
• Ephesians 5:21 - This verse emphasizes the importance of submission in relationships within the church. It reminds us that we are to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ, including our leaders and those in authority over us.
• Matthew 20:25-28 - This passage highlights Jesus' teaching on leadership, emphasizing that true greatness is not about seeking power or prestige but about serving others with humility. Leaders should be servants to one another, not trying to dominate or control others.

Practical Application

This message encourages the congregation to:

* Respect and follow the authority of God-appointed leaders

* Support and pray for their elders and leaders

* Embody the qualities outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, such as humility, temperance, and respectability

* Make leadership positions a joy rather than a burden by listening and following their guidance

* Cultivate humility and servanthood in their own lives, recognizing that true greatness is not about seeking power or prestige but about serving others.