An interesting thought strikes me as I read Acts 13:4-6.
So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia and from there they sailed to Cyprus. When they reached Salamis, they began to proclaim the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews; and they also had John as their helper. When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos… (Acts 13:4-6a)
Paul and Barnabas are just starting off on their first missionary journey, landing on the eastern side of the island of Cyprus in a town called Salamis. They then work their way across the island, preaching the gospel, headed west eventually to reach the capital city of Paphos. I’m reminded that each of the State Directors for Capitol Ministries is seeking to do the same thing.
In addition to developing ministry initially at the state level in our respective capitol communities, we also want to partner with churches throughout our states to reach leaders on the local level. This would include elected officers in county commissions, city councils and school boards. This kind of local outreach can only be done with the involvement of like-minded believers through the state who share the burden to see leaders encouraged by the Word of God.
Instead of Salamis to Paphos, I’m thinking of ways to make this happen from Ocean City to Oakland in the state of Maryland. Maybe you have a thought on putting together a strategy in your area. I’d love to hear it!
Rotunda Reflections 
May 30, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Pastor Brent,
I was reading your recent article: Ministry to Politicians – Thinking Geographically and stopped when I read the following sentence:
“In addition to developing ministry initially at the state level in our respective capitol communities, we also want to partner with churches throughout our states to reach LEADERS on the local level.”
I thought to myself – Perhaps Pastor Brent could use some additional LEADERSHIP material in his ministry to these politicians who are supposed to be leading the state of Maryland. (or the country for that matter) Perhaps an area in your website or ministry could be devoted to just the topic of Leadership, more specifically, Christian Leadership. I have had a passion for the subject since completing my dissertation on “Virtual Team Leadership.” I remembered a book that we completed in Pastor Curt’s Small Men’s Group several years ago by John MacArthur – entitled The Book of Leadership. Perhaps, just this response may be helpful and encouraging to you on your leadership in this new ministry.
I have taken many courses in OB/OD and leadership. I also have a copy of Bass & Stodgill’s Handbook of Leadership on my shelf above my desk, which I studied for my doctorate course – an excellent reference to the study of leadership over the past century.
Robert K. Greenleaf has written much on the subject of SERVANT LEADERSHIP and I enjoy reading some of his material. So, everybody has their own definition of leadership and even the scholars disagree on the many different perspectives and approaches to the subject. It is kind of humorous that even the scholars can’t agree on an accurate definition of the term.
As practicing Christians, we should be using different amounts of christian leadership in our lives, I believe. What is Christian Leadership?
John MacArthur writes about Christian Leadership, and I like what he says in “The Book On Leadership”. I will share this with you today.
John MacArthur uses the Apostle Paul as an example for many of his chapters dealing with principles of leadership; however, books could be written on each of these principles of leadership alone.
Probably one of your first hurdles in reaching Maryland politicians was just to begin meeting them and perhaps starting a prayer/Bible or small men’s group, etc. which I believe you have already started.
A second hurdle might be in attracting them to the subject of leadership. The greatest LEADER who ever lived – JESUS CHRIST by inviting them to learn (on your website, perhaps) more on the subject of these 26 principles of leadership through John MacArthur’s book:
#1 A Leader Is Trustworthy
#2 – A Leader Takes The Initiative
#3 – A Leader Uses Good Judgement
#4 – A Leader Speaks With Authority
#5 – A Leader Strengthens Others
#6 – A Leader Is Optimistic And Enthusiastic
#7 – A Leader Never Compromises the Absolutes
#8 – A Leader Focuses On Objectives, Not Obstacles
#9 – A Leader Empowers By Example
#10 – A Leader Cultivates Loyalty
#11 – A Leader Has Empathy For Others
#12 – A Leader Keeps A Clear Conscience
#13 – A Leader Is Definite And Decisive
#14 – A Leader Knows When To Change His Mind
#15 – A Leader Does Not Abuse His Authority
#16 – A Leader Doesn’t Abdicate His Role In The Face Of Opposition
#17 – A Leader Is Sure Of His Calling
#18 – A Leader Knows His Own Limitations
#19 – A Leader Is Resilient
#20 – A Leader Is Passionate
#21 – A Leader Is Courageous
#22 – A Leader Is Discerning
#23 – A Leader Is Disciplined
#24 – A Leader Is Energetic
#25 – A Leader Knows How To Delegate
#26 – A Leader Is ChristLike
Personally, I often fail on Leadership Principle #26; but, for the grace of God, I keep trying, and learning and am continually working toward being like Christ and growing in spiritual maturity more each year by reading through the Bible once every year. As I learn to listen to the Holy Spirit more and more in my life, I become closer and closer to Jesus.
I pray that your ministry is successful and I praise God that you have shown the kind of leadership (initiative) to step out and try to make a difference in the State Of Maryland. Please pray for me as I don’t know where the Lord is guiding me, but I am being open to his direction as he tells us in Proverbs 3: 5,6.
Like you, I look forward to the day when Jesus will say “Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant”.
Your Brother In Christ Jesus,
Jon
June 4, 2009 at 9:36 pm
By Dick Livermore
on June 4 at 9:00 pm
Pastor Brent: Thanks for your article on Ministry To Politicians. Very well done! I also read Dr. Whiteds comments since I recognized his referance to J. MacArthurs “Principles of Christian Leadership” which I too studied under Pastor Lowry. Dr. Jon makes a very good point. I am a firm believer in MacArthurs Principles through actual experience (except when I drifted). I only wish someone would have introduced me to them early in (or prior to) my professional leadership years! They were not (for the most part) taught in any of my early or advanced educational administrative courses. I pray for you everyday Brent, you have a very tough road ahead. I truly believe you are exactly where He wants you and that you are worthy of the calling!