Edification is the ultimate aim of spiritual gifts within the church. “Let all things be done unto edifying” (1 Corinthians 14:26). Building up the church should be the chief concern of the leadership, as well as the congregation. The Lord gives authority in the church leadership “for building up and not for tearing down” (2 Corinthians 13:10). People, who gather together for worship, should be eager to participate. “Even so you, since you are zealous of spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel” (1 Corinthians 14:12). Spiritual gifts are given for the benefit of others...
How important is it for Christian leadership to be immersed and occupied with prayer! Prayer must be included in any method of evangelism or edification. Truly, the Church must reach souls which are lost and destined to an eternity without God. Only in Christ Jesus can any individual find “rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:30). The one seeking souls for Christ goes before God on behalf of sinners and goes before sinners on behalf of God. The Soul Winner must spend adequate time speaking to the Lord before speaking to anyone about the Lord. “For what good will it do a person if he gains the whole world, but forfeits his soul? Or what will a person give...”
Over the years of partnership, Slavic Missionary Service has always admonished cooperating national workers, first of all, to be prepared “in Christ.” The servant of the Lord must be called and Christ-like in the place that God has chosen. The task of organizing, equipping and maintaining a “local” body of believers, at times, can be daunting and difficult. Only with the presence of God and the power of the Holy Spirit can such a task be accomplished. Then, as congregations grow in capacity, sufficient spiritual leadership must be appointed and advised. Those members, who possess spiritual gifts of leadership and follow the qualifications found in the Pastoral...
