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Word from Scotland
by Sandy Shaw
In Acts 13 we continue to study various aspects of leadership and how men of God respond positively to the moving of the Holy Spirit. Saul was under the authority of the other elders. Saul was submitted to the authority of the others.
Nobody is allowed to run around the Church of Jesus Christ doing what he or she wants. We are subject to those over us. That is why some rebel. Some want to do what they like, when they like, and at a time that suits them. The Church of Jesus Christ allows no such selfishness. We come under the authority of Jesus, as we place ourselves under the authority of the appointed leaders - the elders and shepherds - and there we find security and real freedom.
Have you ever watched an unruly dog? What a pathetic sight. It is the same with a believer who won't do what he or she is told. But have you seen a sheep dog that knows how to move when the shepherd speaks or whistles or signals.
Psalms 51:17 refers to a broken spirit. Every ounce of rebellion has been removed and there is a pleasure and reward in obeying the master.
Yes, there can arise difficulties regarding this whole area of submission. But loving willing submission to loving caring faithful spiritual leadership results in freedom and liberty, and authority, imparting that ability to do what God wants you to do. Jesus submitted His Will to the will of His Father.
In Antioch, they lay their hands on Barnabas and Saul, and send them away. The Church AND the Holy Spirit send them away.
Alexander 'Sandy' Shaw is pastor of Nairn Christian Fellowship in Nairn, Scotland. Nairn is 17 miles east of Inverness - on the Moray Firth Coast - not far from the Loch Ness Monster!
Gifted as a Biblical teacher, Sandy is firmly committed to making sure that his teachings are firmly grounded in the Word.
Sandy has a weekly radio talk which can be heard via the Internet on Saturday at 11:40am, New Orleans time, at wsho.com.
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