A Noble Task
A reflection on leadership in the church
Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task (1 Timothy 3:1, NIV).
The word noble is somewhat lost on us who live in the U.S. today. Our country doesn’t have kings, lords, duchesses, or nobility. We have celebrities but not nobles. What makes a man (or woman) noble isn’t his birthright or aristocratic position but his willingness to devote himself to the good of those under his care. In that sense, anyone can be noble, regardless of family lineage.
In 1 Timothy 3:1, the Apostle Paul says that whoever desires to be an overseer in the church desires a noble task. Overseers are the elders, the spiritual leaders of the congregation. They are appointed by the Holy Spirit (see Acts 20:28) and given spiritual authority in the church. But they are not to use their position of authority to their advantage. Instead, they are charged by God to “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2-3, NIV).
Two things stand out to me in these verses. First, the desire to be a leader in God’s household is a good desire. I’ve known many people over the years who would be great leaders, teachers, musicians, helpers, organizers, coordinators, or disciplers. But, for some reason, they don’t step forward to volunteer in these roles. Perhaps they’re afraid of seeming prideful if they put themselves out there. Maybe they fear rejection if they’re not “good enough” to serve. They might not know that their skills are needed. Or they could be too busy. Whatever the reasons, Paul makes it clear to Timothy that the desire to be a leader for Christ is a good desire.
Second, the desire to be a leader in God’s household is noble because of the sacrifice it requires. Overseers are called to give themselves for the common good of the church. They are to devote themselves to our highest good, spiritual growth, and well-being. When we give ourselves for the good of another, we reflect our Lord Jesus Christ, who loved us and gave himself for us. He is the noblest example of all!
So, don’t shy away from serving or leading in God’s church. Don’t wait for someone on staff to ask you. God has put you in your church for a reason, and you have something to contribute to the community. And remember that being a leader in the church isn’t about being known or recognized by everyone in the congregation. It’s not about having an office, standing on a stage, or being voted on in a congregational meeting. It could be as quiet and simple as gathering two or three others to read the Bible and pray together. A leader isn’t the most intelligent person in the room or the most visionary. A leader is simply someone willing to go first. Will you take the initiative?