clcgh.org Building The Capacity Of Christian Leaders, Equipping The Saints For The Work Of Ministry, Redirecting Straying Christians To The Sound Knowledge Of Christ
Christian leadership is not a matter of position; it is a matter of function, service or ministry. A leader performs a godly act, and asks his followers to do same. Jesus Christ teaches this principle in John 13:14. This means that a leader shows the way.
Now, Christians offer praise and worship to God during church services, but it is often observed that some church leaders, particularly general overseers, do not actively participate in it.
Some of them sit down in the auditorium, tapping their feet; others remain in their offices, doing something else: praying, studying, chatting or counseling.
Although these things are good, they must be done at the right time. One can do something good at the wrong time. Remember that there is time for everything. A time for praise and worship is not a time to do any of the things listed above unless it is instructed by the Lord, the Head of the Church.
All Christian believers, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, scribes and administrators irrespective of their statuses or pedigrees are called to praise and worship the Lord.
“Come, bless the Lord, ALL YOU SERVANTS OF THE LORD, who stand by night in the house of the Lord! Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the Lord!” (Psalm 134:1-2).
The scriptural verse above is a clarion call to all servants of Christ Jesus, including lead pastors to actively participate in praise and worship to God. In fact, we must lead it by our presence and personal involvement.
The Psalmist instructs us to humble ourselves, swallow our pride, and come before God. This means church leaders must attend church meetings early. Jesus was never late for meetings. He went early, and sat down before His disciples went for Him to teach them (Matthew 5:1).
After coming, we are encouraged to open our mouths and bless the Lord. We should not bless the Lord while seated or standing akimbo or with our hands behind us or in our pockets. Rather, we should stand erect with our hands lifted up to adore and glorify our God.
As church leaders actively participate in praise and worship, church members learn from them how to do all of these for their spiritual growth and the glory of the name of God.
By James Quansah
