Now a certain Jew named Apollos, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.
(Acts 18:24-26)
Thoughts… I was in a conversation recently about a young minister who is unusually gifted. His public ministry is well received by the congregation he serves, and at least a few people are ready to anoint him with senior leadership.
That would be a tragic mistake for this young man. He is extremely talented, bright and likeable, and his spiritual gifting is unquestionable. He just needs seasoning in the Lord, and in spiritual leadership. And all of that takes time and intentionality. Fortunately, this young minister understands that, and because he does, he is well on his way to a long run of outstanding ministry.
Christians often make the mistake of assuming gifts, talents and a winsome personality equals spiritual maturity and Christian character. They do not. Gifts, talents and personality can take you to places where only your character can keep you. Your personal charisma can open the door of opportunity, but only your spiritual maturity will enable you to be effective there.
I have seen more than a few young ministers, burgeoning leaders, and high profile converts greatly hampered, if not spiritually ruined, because they were placed too quickly in high places of ministry. I think that’s why Paul advised Timothy when he was establishing leadership in the Ephesians church to “not lay hands suddenly” on unproven leaders. (I Timothy 5:22) That’s why the seasoned ministry team of Pricilla and Aquila pulled the talented and gifted Apollos aside and explained to him the way of God more fully.
Be careful with what you confer upon unseasoned Christians. Encourage them, applaud them, challenge them, and give them increasing responsibility, but don’t ruin them by giving too much, too soon.
Just as you don’t get holy in a hurry, they won’t gain maturity in a month.
Prayer… Lord, now that I have arrived at this season of my spiritual journey with you, help me to take on the role of mentoring others in the way of the Lord. Equip me with discerning encouragement so that I might greatly help those who are young in the faith to get on the good path to spiritual maturity and Christian character.
One More Thing… “We are so subnormal that if we came up to normal, the world would think we were abnormal.” —Vance Havner
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