Message Notes

(I) THE FIRST LEADERS OF THE CHURCH

1. The Apostles (Acts 1-5)

2. The Ministry of the Apostles

a) Evangelism

b) Church Planting

c) Laying the Foundations

d) Development of the Church

(II) A GROWING NEED FOR LEADERS

1. These would assist the Apostles (Acts 6:2-3)

2. The Choosing of a strong team of Servant-Leaders

a) Seven men to be chosen to assist the Apostles

b) Several criteria determined

i) Good reputation ( Acts 6:3a )

ii) Full of the Holy Spirit ( Acts 6:3b )

iii) Wisdom ( Acts 6:3c )

iv) Full of faith ( Acts 6:5b )

(III) A GROWING CORE OF LEADERS

1. Barnabas (Acts 4:36-37; 11:23-24)

2. Paul (Acts 9, 11:256)

3. Agabus (a prophet , Acts 11:28)

4. Judas and Silas

“…leading men among the brethren.” Acts 15:22

(IV) THE CHALLENGE TODAY

1. Recognition of the need for a growing core of leaders

2. Responsibility to follow Biblical guidelines

3. Responding to the Call to become spiritual leaders for the future

a) Faithful

b) Filled with the Spirit of God

c) Full of wisdom