Three Leadership Lessons from the Apostle Paul

All the Faith Leaders mentioned in the New Testament were mighty men and women of God. However, none of them, except the Lord Jesus, were infallible. They were highly anointed and committed to following Jesus regardless of personal cost, but they weren’t perfect. Sometimes they didn’t do what they should have done, but I’m sure we can all relate because, like them, none of us is perfect either. Still, we can learn a lot from their leadership lessons. So, let’s consider just three things Paul did that made him an excellent Faith Leader.

Choosing an Associate

Acts 16 shares some background about Timothy, whom Paul would mentor in the ministry. It says: Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek.

Although the early church was still debating whether Gentiles could join God’s family, Paul didn’t dismiss Timothy because of his ethnic background. Paul looked beyond Timothy’s father’s identity and focused on what truly mattered. Acts 16:2 states that Timothy was well reported of by the brethren at Lystra and Iconium.

In other words, Timothy had a strong reputation among fellow believers. Being well reported by the brethren means that Timothy demonstrated excellence in his character, conduct, and faithfulness. This is an important leadership lesson. When choosing associates for ministry, having a calling is not enough. Character is crucial. The scripture tells us to know them which labour among you. (1 Thessalonians 5:12) Wise leaders don’t rush to hire or appoint someone in a church auxiliary. Instead, they seek confirmation from faithful believers or other ministers who know the person well. Timothy became one of Paul’s most trusted associates. His careful selection proved to be worth it.

Every Organization Needs One Head

The first church council convened in Jerusalem, as recorded in Acts 15. It states that the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter [whether Gentile men needed to be circumcised to join the church (v. 6). We don’t know how many leaders spoke at that meeting, but the Bible mentions that Peter, Paul, and Barnabas all presented statements. However, when it was time to make a decision, James provided it. It wasn’t a letter signed by ten committee members, but a decision made by the leader of the organization. When James announced his decision, it was accepted by the group and communicated in writing to local churches.

The church functions best with clear leadership that has the final authority and responsibility. Healthy leadership encourages discussion, but effective leadership offers resolution and direction without confusion. Every organization needs one leader because anything with multiple heads is a monster.

Follow God’s Timeline

Paul knew God called him to minister to Gentiles, and Asia was full of them. Still, the Holy Ghost told Paul not to go to Asia: Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia. (Acts 16:6)

Paul could have ignored the Holy Ghost, saying, “Well, I know I’m called to the Gentiles and there are a lot of Gentiles in Asia. I’m going.” But wisely, he did not. Didn’t God want the Gospel preached in Asia? What about Jesus’ command to “go into all the world”? (Mark 16:15) Yes, those were Jesus’ commands, but Faith Leaders must listen carefully not only for what to do but also for when, where, and how to do it. I’ve seen it happen many times: a young man or woman knows they are called and anointed by God, and they don’t wait to get specific directions from the Lord. With good intentions, they rush into things, but the result of that is often frustration and even offense. 

God’s plan is perfect. He will give you assignments and a timeline. Learn to listen to and follow Him, just as the Apostle Paul did.