Qualifications for Leadership

I Corinthians 16:13–18
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

Paul begins a series of closing remarks, exhortations, challenges, and greetings. Faith, conviction, courage, and love are essential ingredients for success and victory. As the Corinthians wait for Paul’s next visit, he exhorts them to a fivefold commitment:

1. “Watch ye” – Be alert! Be on your guard! (v. 13).

2. “Stand fast in the faith” – Have mature stability (v. 13).

3. “Quit you like men” – Act like men, not children (v. 13).

4. “Be strong” – Not physically, but spiritually (v. 13).

5. “Let all things be done with charity” – Love (v. 14). 

Stephanas and his family were the first people to be won to Christ in Achaia. They became important leaders in the church, for they committed themselves to the service of Christ. Whenever they saw a need, they went to work to meet it without needing to be asked. They were Paul’s helpers and labored with him faithfully in the church. One primary qualification for leadership in the church is a willingness to serve.

The holy kiss (cf. 2 Cor. 13:12; Rom. 16:16; 1 Thes. 5:25; 1 Peter 5:14) was an expression of the love, forgiveness, and unity which should exist among Christians. This kiss of peace was a lovely custom of the early Church. It may have been a Jewish custom which the early Church took over. It was apparently given at the end of the prayers and just before the congregation partook of the sacrament. It was the sign and symbol that they sat at the table of love joined in perfect love.

Application

As a Christian, I need to remember that true manliness does not do away with tenderness and love for the Lord and other people.