table of contents - boys jim club · 2015. 1. 2. · 2009 – your grace still amazes me 2010 –...

The Boys J.I.M. Club of America Leadership Notebook

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Table of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................... 1

SECTION A – JIM CLUB BASICS................................................................................................... 3 JIM Club “Pins” .............................................................................................................................. 3 Our Fellowship Qualifications........................................................................................................ 4 The Camp Poem – “If I Had A Boy”............................................................................................... 5 The Fiftieth Boy ............................................................................................................................. 6 The Hundred Point Christian Boy.................................................................................................. 7 “Jesus Is Mine” – Am I His? .......................................................................................................... 8 Basics for Success in the Christian Life ........................................................................................ 9 Classes/Activities/Awards – Typical Two-Week Session ............................................................ 10 Do’s and Don’ts ........................................................................................................................... 11 Boys’ JIM Jobs – Descriptions .................................................................................................... 13 Swimming Rules.......................................................................................................................... 17 The Commandments of Magic .................................................................................................... 18 Gospel Team Behavior................................................................................................................ 19 How to Write an Interesting Letter ............................................................................................... 20 Song Leading Guidelines ............................................................................................................ 21 Bible Chapter Memorization ........................................................................................................ 23 Camper Evaluation Report .......................................................................................................... 24 Counselor-In-Training Program (C.I.T.)....................................................................................... 25 Worker-In-Training Program (W.I.T.)........................................................................................... 28 Statement of Mission................................................................................................................... 31 Statement of Faith ....................................................................................................................... 31 Motels Near JIM Club.................................................................................................................. 33

SECTION B – EIGHT KEYS FOR THE CHRISTIAN LEADER ..................................................... 34

Key #1: Salvation – The Leader’s Beginning .............................................................................. 34 Key #2: The Leader’s Duties ....................................................................................................... 35 Key #3: The Leader’s Church Fellowship.................................................................................... 36 Key #4: The Leader’s Bible ......................................................................................................... 37 Key #5: The Leader’s Prayer Life................................................................................................ 38 Key #6: The Leader and His Witnessing ..................................................................................... 39 Key #7: The Leader’s Walk ......................................................................................................... 40 Key # 8: The Leader’s Hope........................................................................................................ 41


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SECTION C – WHAT IS CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP? .................................................................. 42 Food for THOUGHT with room to JOT........................................................................................ 42 Definitions and Scripture References.......................................................................................... 45 The Servant / Leader................................................................................................................... 46 The Strong Natural Leader.......................................................................................................... 47 Born or Made Leaders?............................................................................................................... 47 Mini-Biographies of Some Christian Leaders .............................................................................. 48 Leadership in Christ’s Body, the Church ..................................................................................... 49 Measuring Your Leadership Potential ......................................................................................... 50 The Price of Leadership (Boys Sermon A-41)............................................................................. 51 Your Leadership Journal ............................................................................................................. 53 Rules for Leaders ........................................................................................................................ 56 Free Space Area: For Leadership Brainstorming........................................................................ 57

SECTION D – BIBLE LEADERS ................................................................................................... 58 Christ, the Servant King .............................................................................................................. 58 Christ, the Leader........................................................................................................................ 59 Daniel (God is my judge)............................................................................................................. 59 David (Beloved of God, chieftain)................................................................................................ 60 Elijah (God is Jehovah, God Himself) ......................................................................................... 62 Elisha (God is Savior).................................................................................................................. 63 Ezekiel (God is strong, the man God strengthens) ..................................................................... 64 Joshua (Jehovah is salvation) ..................................................................................................... 65 Moses (Drawn forth, taken out of the water, a son) .................................................................... 66 Nehemiah .................................................................................................................................... 68 Paul ............................................................................................................................................. 69 Samson (Distinguished, strong, sun-man) .................................................................................. 70

SECTION E – SNAPSHOTS OF BIBLE LEADERS ...................................................................... 71 Abraham...................................................................................................................................... 71 Andrew ........................................................................................................................................ 71 Daniel .......................................................................................................................................... 72 David ........................................................................................................................................... 72 Elijah............................................................................................................................................ 73 Elisha........................................................................................................................................... 73 Gideon......................................................................................................................................... 74 John the Baptist........................................................................................................................... 74 Jonah........................................................................................................................................... 75 Joseph......................................................................................................................................... 75 Joshua......................................................................................................................................... 76 Moses.......................................................................................................................................... 76 Nehemiah .................................................................................................................................... 77 Noah............................................................................................................................................ 77 Paul ............................................................................................................................................. 78 Peter............................................................................................................................................ 78 Philip............................................................................................................................................ 79 Samson ....................................................................................................................................... 79 Samuel ........................................................................................................................................ 80 Silas............................................................................................................................................. 80


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Section A – JIM Club Basics JIM Club “Pins”

(Pin Leadership to These Key Thoughts)

CAMP VERSES Romans 12:10 - "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another;" James 1:22 - "But be ye doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old he will not depart from it."

CAMP SEASON BANNERS1990 – Seekers of His Heart 1991 – Christ the Servant King 1992 – Shining His Light 1993 – Draw the Line 1994 – Be the One 1995 – Answer the Call 1996 – Will You Love Jesus More 1997 – Any Road, Any Cost 1998 – Knowing You Jesus 1999 – Crucified with Christ 2000 – The Goal 2001 – For the Glory of Your Name 2002 – Accepted in the Beloved 2003 – In Christ Alone 2004 – How Deep the Father’s Love For Us 2005 – My Soul, My Life, My All 2006 – Lord of Eternity 2007 – The Power of the Cross

2008 – How Great Is Our God 2009 – Your Grace Still Amazes Me 2010 – You Are God Alone 2011 – Beautiful Savior 2012 – Alive! 2013 – Cornerstone 2014 – By Faith 2015 – ________________________ 2016 – ________________________ 2017 – ________________________ 2018 – ________________________ 2019 – ________________________

CAMP MOTTOES 1. The best ability is dependability. (Faithfulness)

2. Remember the woodpile. (Put things back as you found them or better.)

THE J.I.M. PIN The Christian is able to say, "J-esus I-s M-ine." What does that mean? It means that the Christian has linked himself to Christ and has been called out of sin into salvation, out of selfishness into service, out of condemnation into consecration, out of the kingdom of darkness world into the kingdom of God's dear Son.


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Our Fellowship Qualifications

1. A personal relationship with Christ as Savior.

2. A dedicated heart, like young Samuel, Timothy, David.

3. Actions and conversations guided by: a) Love b) Honesty c) Unselfishness d) Purity e) Appreciation

4. Team work and loyalty to the JIM Club.

5. If you offend or wrong someone, admit it and ask forgiveness

6. If you must criticize another, tell him directly, not behind his back. For serious criticism, first

pray about it and ask Gods help in the situation; then talk it over with a counselor or the director.

7. A teachable spirit. Willingness to be instructed, especially by those in authority. Ask God

to show you the main sin in your life and allow Him to work on you this summer to gain victory over that sin.

8. Willingness to learn leadership by first being a sincere follower and a servant.

9. Willingness to let others have the glory. (see Romans 12:10)

10. A regular time of personal devotions each day, to read the Bible, pray, think. Be alone with

God. Nothing else can substitute for this - not speaking on a platform, not church attendance, not even being at a Christian Leadership Camp.

11. Sharing your victories, defeats, problems and challenges with other campers and

counselors, to - a) help others deal with the same problem - b) gain the advice, help and prayer of a brother or sister in Christ. If it is a serious problem which affects JIM Club, or an important victory or blessing, be sure to share it with the director. Every major event at JIM Club should "travel" through the heart and mind of the camp director.

12. Willingness to accept assignments, challenges or work which the staff give you to develop

you as a servant/leader. (e.g., JIM Job; platform skills like preaching, magic, mime; Bible investigation; dish crew; care of your belongings; sports challenge, etc.)

13. Enthusiasm for JIM Club. A desire to get everything possible out of the summer, and a

continued interest in camp in the "off-season". Write to the director; make good use of the "Friend Finder" to keep in contact with staff and other campers. Put your JIM Club skills to use all through the year, in church or Sunday School, nursing homes, street evangelism, etc. Tell others about JIM Club. Above all, pray regularly for JIM Club.

14. Make "J-esus I-s M-ine" so real in your life that it spills over into the lives of others. Let your

Christianity show, especially among non-Christians.

15. Be in good fellowship with a local church that honors the Word of God.


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The Camp Poem – “If I Had A Boy” If I had a boy, I would say to him, "Son,

Be fair and be square in the race you must run; Be grave if you lose and be meek if you win,

Be better and nobler than I've ever been, Be honest and fearless in all that you do,

And honor the name I have given to you." If I had a boy I would want him to know

That we reap in this life just about as we sow, And we get what we earn be it little or great,

Regardless of luck and regardless of fate; I would teach him and show him the best that I could,

That it pays to be honest, upright and good. I would make him a pal and a partner of mine,

And show him the things in the world that are fine, I would show him the things that are wicked and bad,

For I figure this knowledge should come from his Dad; I would walk with him, talk with him, play with him too,

And in all of my promises strive to be true. We would grow up together and I'd be a boy

And share in his troubles and share in his joy; We would work out problems together and then,

We would lay out our plans when we both would be men; And Oh! What-a wonderful joy it would be,

No pleasure in life could be greater to me. But still more important, I'd lead him to know

The Saviour whose blood washes whiter than snow; I'd tell him the story of Christ on the tree

Who suffered for sinners that they might go free; I'd never stop praying, in sorrow or joy,

Until he found Jesus ..... If I had a boy.

Each JIM Clubber should memorize this poem. Though we each may have a different "set" of platform material which we learn, this is one poem which we

should all store in memory and heart.


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The Fiftieth Boy By: Dr. Frank Crane (adapted)

About one boy in fifty will remain after the feast and on his own accord offer to help clear the things up or to wash the dishes. Do you know this Fiftieth Boy? The Fiftieth Boy makes his parents' hearts glad. He confides in his mother and makes a friend of his father. The Fiftieth Boy smoothes the wrinkles out of his teacher's forehead, and takes the worry out of her mind. There are forty-nine boys who are seeking jobs; the job seeks the Fiftieth Boy. The forty-nine "didn't think"; the Fiftieth Boy thinks. When he sees a banana peel on the side-walk, or a piece of glass in the road, he picks it up. The forty-nine think it's none of their business. All the grouches and sour-faces brighten when they see the Fiftieth Boy coming. He does not lie, steal nor tattle, because he does not like to. The Fiftieth Boy is a good sport. He does not whine when he loses. He does not sulk when another wins the prize. He does not cry when he is hurt. He is respectful to all women and girls. He is not afraid to do right nor ashamed to be decent. He looks you straight in the eye. He tells the truth, whether the consequences for him are unpleasant or not. He is not a wimp nor a sissy, but he insists on being straight and honest. Forty-seven out of the forty-nine like him. He is even pleasant toward his own sister and toward the sisters of other fellows. He is not sorry for himself. He works as hard as he plays. Everybody is glad to see him. Do you have that kind of a boy at your house? If not, don't be surprised, there aren't enough to go around. Every boy accepted for JIM Club was chosen because we hoped he was a "Fiftieth Boy". There are usually about 50 people at JIM Club, and we hope they all have that 50th quality. Though Frank Crane described the Fiftieth Boy, any woman or man, girl or boy can be that standout person.


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The Hundred Point Christian Boy Do you want to have that certain something that makes folks want you around them? The "Hundred Point Boy" is such a person. "A hundred point boy is one who is true to every trust; who keeps his word; who is loyal to his commitments; who does not listen for insults nor look for slights; who has a civil tongue in his head; who is considerate and thoughtful; who is willing to learn without jealousy or envy showing up; who does not seek revenge." "Hundred point boys are safe boys to deal with; he is more interested in doing his work than in what people will say about it; he does not consider the grandstand; he is one who pays his way; he knows nothing is ever given for nothing; he keeps his fingers off other people's property; he is appreciative and shows it; he fulfills his promises or gives a good prompt reason why he can't." Can people say about you: "He is a Hundred Point Boy in everything he does"? Jimmie Davis added these practical tips for the Hundred Point Boy:

1. Be on guard against doing things that are just plain dumb or silly.

2. Be enthusiastically helpful to everyone possible.

3. Go out of your way to do good deeds. Think up things to do.

4. Try giving yourself away. (All the talents and gifts you may have)

5. Be natural. Don't put on an act except when called upon to do so in a play.

6. Acknowledge all introductions courteously.

7. Be a booster! Praise generously. Criticize tactfully.

8. Be a good listener; respect others' viewpoints.

9. Extend a hearty handshake, not a flabby one.

10. A pleasant smile accomplishes wonders.

11. Be punctual. Don't steal people's time.

12. Show that you appreciate all favors, big or little.

13. Say "thank you" expressively not just politely.

14. Be sympathetic, but do not complain or seek sympathy.

15. Cooperate readily, cheerfully.

16. When you are in the wrong, admit it frankly.

17. Take pride in your work and your appearance.

18. Do your best every day. Watch out for habits that control you.

19. Be fair, loyal and sincere.

20. Radiate friendliness and enthusiasm.


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Every boy needs power. Every dedicated boy wants power. Every Christian boy has the Master's promise of power. To have power in our lives over sin and selfishness; over tongue and temper; over unholy desires and decisions; to have power in prayer, and in winning others over from sin to Jesus Christ one must lay down the required price. What is the price of this power? Listen to Jesus: "If any man would come after me, let him DENY HIMSELF and TAKE UP HIS CROSS and FOLLOW ME." Here we are being urged to deny ourselves. Paul said, "I have been crucified with Christ" meaning he allowed his selfishness to die so that he might live for Christ. Self will come out of hiding many times. It is a daily conflict. In every heart there is a cross, and a throne, and each is occupied. If Jesus is on the throne ruling, self is on the cross dying. When self is on the throne, it means Christ has been put on the cross. Guard the throne of your heart.

“Jesus Is Mine” – Am I His? How are you? I just had to send a note to you to tell you how much I love you and care about you. I saw you yesterday as you were talking with your friends. I waited all day hoping you would want to talk with me also. As evening drew near, I gave you a sunset to close your day and a cool breeze to rest you, and I waited. You never came. Yes, it did hurt me but I still love you. I saw you fall asleep last night and I wanted to touch your face so I spilled more light upon your pillow and face. Again I waited; waiting so we could talk. I have so many gifts for you! You awakened late and rushed off to work. My tears were in the rain. Today you look so sad - - so all alone. It makes my heart ache because I understand. My friends let me down and hurt me so many times too, but I love you. If you would only listen to me. I love you! I try to tell you in the blue sky and in the quiet grass. I whisper it in the leaves on the trees and breathe it in the color of the flowers. I shout it to you in the mountain streams and give the birds love songs to sing. I clothe you with warm sunshine and perfume the air with nature's scent. My love for you is deeper than oceans, and bigger than the biggest need or want in your heart. Please talk with me. Don't just forget me! I have so much to share. But, I won't force my way into your life. You are free to choose. It is your decision. I have already chosen you. Because of this, I will wait -- because I love you. Your friend, JESUS


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Basics for Success in the Christian Life

1. BEGIN RIGHT: Take Jesus as your personal Saviour. I Peter 2:24, "Christ His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree." Read Hebrews 10:14.

2. CONFESS CHRIST OPENLY: Not only once when you first get saved, but in church membership and baptism. Also at home, at school, and in your business and social life. Romans 10:10, "With the mouth confession is made unto salvation." See Matthew 10:32,33.

3. TRUST CHRIST FOR VICTORY: In times of trial and temptation. I Corinthians 15:57, "Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." See I Corinthians 10:13 and Hebrews 7:25.

4. STUDY THE WORD: I Peter 2:2, "As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the Word." See II Timothy 2:15, and Psalm 119:11. To grow spiritually, one must feed on the Word of God.

5. PRAY REGULARLY: Daniel 6:10, "Daniel kneeled three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before God." Pray as you start each day. Then close the day on your knees and you can not get far away from God.

6. GO TO WORK FOR CHRIST: There is a work to be done which you alone can do. While we are saved by GRACE, we shall be rewarded according to our WORKS. May Jesus say to you, Matthew 25:23, "Well done, good and faithful servant." See Luke 24:47,48.

7. GIVE GENEROUSLY: Proverbs 11:25, "The liberal soul shall be made fat." Start by giving a tithe, a tenth of your income. See if this practice makes you poorer or richer. You will make it a rule for life. See Malachi 3:10; I Corinthians 16:2, and II Corinthians 9:6-8.

8. KEEP PUSHING ON: Philippians 3:13,14, "Forgetting those things which are behind . . . I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Forget past failures and even past successes as you seek to do more for your loving Saviour. See Ephesians 4:13, and Daniel 12:13.


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Classes/Activities/Awards – Typical Two-Week Session

MOST DAYS Morning “Radio Show” Praise & Worship Group Devotions Personal Devotions Sports

Swimming Recreation Rest Period Free Time Platform Practice Class

Meals JIM Jobs Room Clean Up Store

SOME DAYS Leadership Notebook Class Constructive Free Time Sermon Writing Class Tithers League Music Performance Class Ballooning Class Drama/Mime Class Hike CDA - Counselor

Determined Activity Counselor Meeting CIT Meeting WIT Meeting Emergency Procedures Drama Class Souvenir Sales

Talent Night Awards Presentation Indoor Games Choir Practice Ventriloquism Class Emergency Drill Song-leading class In-Room Devotions Camp Fire Concert of Prayer Concert of Praise Top Ten Street Evangelism Prep Time Room Videotaping Prime Time

Do's and Don'ts Gobbledeegook Sat. Program Dry Run Saturday Program Midway Letter-Writing Class Gospel Team Counselor Night Out Special Guest Teacher Camper-Counselor Time JIM Club Memorabilia Swim Test Room Day Room Pictures Movie Madness Picnic Lunch

Fireworks at Midway Magic Demonstration Magic Sale

AWARDS Regular Best Balanced Boy Best Preacher Best Magician Sportsmanship Hardest Worker Arts & Drama Award Grand Slam

Possible Camp Theologian Best Scripture Memory Most Expressive Heart Material Most Willing Helper Most Injured

Earliest Riser Best Dressed Funniest Guy Hungriest Camper Greatest Fisherman


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Do’s and Don’ts

DO'S: 1. Do be kindly affectionate one to another, considerate and thoughtful.

2. Do obey counselors.

3. Do your best to be gracious to visitors.

4. Do be "ground conscious" and pick up papers and litter.

5. Do dive into any job you are asked to do and do it willingly, graciously, and with zeal.

6. Do tell a counselor if you have an accident during the night.

7. Do settle down and be quiet after lights out.

8. Do keep your bed & belongings in good condition throughout the day.

9. Do eat what is on your plate during meals; ask for a "thimbleful" of food you don't care for.

10. Do be loyal to the JIM Club.

11. Do inform the director immediately if any serious problem comes up.

12. Do leave the woodpile as high or higher than you found it.

13. Do accept constructive criticism from counselors and staff.

14. Do your best to learn all you can in the way of platform material (magic, sermons, etc.).

15. Do make sure that all your clothes are marked before asking for them to be washed. Put clothes in the wash only when necessary. If you are staying for only two weeks and have enough changes of clothing, pack dirty clothes away so they can be washed at home.

16. Do return balls, gloves and other sport/recreation equipment to their proper place.

17. Do use stairs and doors quietly.

18. Do report ANY illness or injury to the Health Director.

19. Do wear proper athletic footwear to sports and recreation.

20. Do wear proper footwear during swimming.

21. Do ask permission before doing the following:

a) Playing the piano

b) Taking a shower

c) Giving your contact information address to anyone

d) Using a hard ball; supervision is required

e) Using the phone

f) Riding a bike (Also, do not pass another bike in motion or skid, or pop a wheelie, or anything else in the way of a stunt.)


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DON'TS: 1. Don't turn on radio, television, video games, cell phones, computers or any other electronic

equipment without permission . Use personal radio-alarms only for alarm clocks.

2. Don't climb trees.

3. Don't go into other people's suitcases EVEN if you have permission.

4. Don't jump up and down on any beds.

5. Don't play pranks on anyone.

6. Don't horse around on the dock.

7. Don't leave camp boundaries.

8. Don't go into medicine cabinets.

9. Don't throw anything into the toilet that doesn't belong there.

10. Don't leave the water running.

11. Don't make any noise in the morning until 15 minutes before personal devotions and don't get out of bed until at least 6:30 A.M.

12. Don't wrestle without adult supervision.

13. Don't throw rocks at the waterfront.

14. Don't leave personal belongings lying around the grounds.

15. Don't buy, sell or trade anything with other boys without staff permission.

16. Don't be a W.W. (Worry Wart)

17. Don't talk when other people are talking.

18. Don't talk back to counselors or staff.

19. Don't be late for meals or classes.

20. Don't call anyone names, or put down any group - race, religion, nationality, etc.

21. Don't go into the woods without shoes on.

22. Don't bring any food or drink into the Rec Port.

23. Don’t spend more money than you have in your account.

24. Do not give massages, back rubs, etc. Only the Health Director can do so.

25. Do not throw ANY object in the Tear Drop area – ball, Frisbee, etc. Do so in the ball field.

26. Don't go into the following places without specific permission:

a) The Kitchen b) The Office c) The Work Barn d) The Store e) Adult Sleeping Quarters. f) The Magic Counter g) The Rec. Hall stage

h) The Commissary i) The Infirmary j) The Rec. Port attic k) The Furnace Room l) The Well House


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Boys’ JIM Jobs – Descriptions

1. ACCOUNT CARDS ! Be at store, magic class, Midway departure, letter writing class, and souvenir sales with

account cards. ! Keep account cards in the office when not in use. ! Legibly write entries in pencil. ! Keep a camper's balance up to date; advise him when he is running low; head off over-

spending (i.e., more spending than balance in account).

2. BASKETBALL BARN ! Place balls on the racks and hockey sticks in the bins. ! Sweep the floor. ! Check occasionally through the day.

3. BATHROOMS (2 in Rec. Hall; 2 in Dorm; 3 in House; 1 in Burrows) ! Clean toilets, mirror, and all surfaces. ! Scour sink. ! Check toilet paper. ! Sweep and mop floor. ! Dust over towel dispenser and other flat surfaces ! Wash some surface areas:

" Wall(s) next to toilet " Wall area around light switch " Doors, wash off marks around knob

4. BEACH ! Rake up washed-up weeds and debris. Load up into wheel barrels and dump weeds in

back of marsh area. ! Pick up any papers, glass and garbage. ! Keep the camp fire ring clear of trash. ! Clear dock of bird droppings ! Keep water-shoes and rafts in order

5. BICYCLE RACK/SHACK PORCH ! Sweep the porch. ! Put away extra chairs that have accumulated on or near the porch. ! Make sure that the bikes and helmets are properly stored. ! Report any problems with the bicycles to the Maintenance Chief. ! Check the bike rack occasionally through the day.

6. BURROWS ! Vacuum Carpets ! Clean bathroom behind magic counter (see bathrooms) ! Keep chairs in order ! Remove garbage from floor, chairs, etc. ! Clean shelves, mirrors, window sills, etc.


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7. CARDBOARD ! Collapse cardboard boxes stored in the recycling area behind the Rec. Hall. ! Transport collapsed boxes to the dumpster. ! Sweep the area around the cardboard.

8. CHAIRS/SONG BOOKS ! Straighten chairs after any meeting time in the front of the Rec. Hall. ! Sweep up any dirt under the chairs. ! Check chairs occasionally through the day. ! Assist worship leader in putting out song books when asked. ! Collect song books and music after Praise & Worship and put them neatly away.

9. CLOTHES LINES (House, Dorm) ! Check throughout the day. ! Pick up fallen things. ! Remove clothes before a storm and re-arrange afterwards.

10. DISPENSARY ! Keep counters clean and cleared off. ! Sweep floor daily. ! Mop on Saturdays and whenever else needed, always after a rainy day. ! Take any dishes, glasses, utensils, etc. that may be left out to the kitchen. ! Dust off shelf areas.

11. FLOWER BEDS ! Weed around rec. hall, dorm, house, garage/offices, burrows ! Water & cultivate (i.e., turn soil over; loosen it)

12. HOUSE STAIRS (2 flights; includes hallway upstairs and landings at the bottom)

! Sweep completely daily - top to bottom; get the corners! ! On Saturdays, you try to vacuum the stairs to get all the grit in nooks/crannies.

13. INFIRMARY ! Make the bed. ! Sweep floor daily. ! Wipe the desk and make sure that there are enough pens and pencils available. ! Throw out and replace the disposal bag. ! If someone is staying in the Infirmary, ask the Health Director for directions.


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14. LIVING ROOM ! Straighten chairs, books and lamps. ! Dust shelving, radiator, TV, stereo, and all other surface areas. ! Keep the videos in good order. ! Check occasionally through the day.

15. OFFICE ! Sweep the floor daily. Mop the floor when needed. ! Be sure to move any items you can, don't just clean around things. ! Dust all surfaces, especially the windowsills. ! Keep the bookshelf in good order. ! Ask the Director if any extra clean-up work needs to be done in the Office.

16. POTS AND PANS ! As soon as you're done eating, go to the kitchen and start washing them up. You may get

your own seconds before the other campers. ! Wash some up before the meal instead of standing in the food line, if there are any to be

done then. In that way you can get done faster after meals and be out of the way of the dish crew.

! Besides pots and pans, this job involves all utensils used in the preparation or serving of meals (i.e. cutting boards, mixer, slicer, knives, serving spoons, trays).

! Items are to be air dried, preferably, rather than with towels.

17. REC PORT ! Put away all stray balls, Frisbees, pool table cues, waterfront equipment, etc. ! Sweep floor. ! Throw out garbage. ! Break down spider webs in the Rec Port with a broom. ! Check occasionally through the day.

18. SPIDER WEBS/WALKS ! Go around all buildings daily and break down webs with a broom. Sweep walls.

" Dorm exterior and awning. " Rec. hall windows, walls, over hang, inside windows, and corners. " Around shack and tool shed. " Inside and out of garage. " Anywhere that a web exists.

! Sweep walks daily. " Around Rec Hall " Entrance walkways " All around dorm " Store porch area


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19. Stage ! Vacuum stage and steps. ! Ensure instruments are properly stored out of sight. ! Ensure sound equipment is properly stored out of sight. ! Sweep storage area beside the stage. ! Keep clutter off of the piano.

20. STORE ! Leave about 10 minutes early to go and set up. On Saturdays, eat supper first.

" Set up quietly as others in the basement might be resting. ! Take orders and retrieve food for boys during Store time. ! If any problems arise in line, inform a counselor. ! After store time, restock pop in the refrigerator and put everything away. ! Pick up any scattered pop containers and wrappers around garbage can. ! Inform the Food Service Coordinator when the supply of any candy or beverage runs low. ! Sweep and keep inside of store and service counter clean and organized

21. TOWEL DISPENSERS ! Keep dispensers stocked with paper towels ! Check to see each washroom has a toilet roll on the rack and a spare. (This is actually the

job of the Bathroom JIM Jobbers, but you could take care of this if you see toilet tissue missing.)

22. TRASH COLLECTOR/CANS ! Empty trash cans from all over camp. Some areas can be done every other day. (Ask a

staff member's permission to enter areas out-of-bounds areas. See “DO'S & DON'TS”.) " Rec Hall: Bathrooms; Commissary; Cubby Hole; Magic Counter; Stage " Dorm: All boys’ rooms; Bathrooms; Hallways; Guest rooms " House: Dispensary; Bathrooms (3); Living Room; All Boy's Rooms; Store; Laundry

room; Infirmary " Garage, Office, Shack, Rec Port " Ask residents of the Burrows to leave cans outside their door to be emptied as needed.

! Wash out cans when needed, especially the kitchen cans. Keep them clean.

23. VACUUM ! Become thoroughly familiar with the operation of vacuum(s). ! Vacuum the Living Room daily. Vacuum carpets and rugs in neighboring rooms if those

boys need a hand. ! Clean the Kirby vacuum after each use.

24. WINDOWS AND DOORS ! Wash hand and finger marks from doors

" Rec Hall doors (main entry and kitchen) " Dorm doors " Office and garage doors " House " Burrows


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Swimming Rules Everyone must take a swimming test to be considered as a “Swimmer”. A “Swimmer” must complete:

Component one (administered in water less than chest deep of the camper)

● Feet first entry into chest deep water ● Swim front crawl for 25 yards ● Swim elementary backstroke for 15 yards ● Shows the ability to follow the instructions

Component two (in water greater than chest deep only after component one successfully completed)

● Maintain position on back 1 minute ● Tread water for 1 minute ● Swim stroke other than crawl for 15 yards (back-, side-, breast-, or butterfly-stroke) ● Swim any stroke for 25 yards

All others are classified as Non-Swimmers, identified by RED wristband and restricted to shallow ropes/buoys.

1. A Swimmer may swim anywhere within the boundaries outlined by the buoys. (Note: All references to "the raft" apply only if the raft is in fact installed.) A Non-swimmer may swim only within the shallow buoy area (from the dock to the first buoy line.)

2. There will be 1 lifeguard for every 25 swimmers, 1 adult for every 10 swimmers. (Lifeguards are counted among 1-to-10 adults.) The lifeguard on the dock shall be in charge of numbering the pairs and of blowing the whistle for a "count-off". The 4 lifeguard stations are dock, raft and chairs #1 and #2.

3. All boys will be paired off and the pairs numbered before entering the water, Swimmers with Swimmers, and Non-Swimmers with Non-Swimmers. No more than three can have the same number at any one time. (A Swimmer can pair up with a Non-Swimmer if the Swimmer agrees to stay within the Non-Swimmer buoys.) The campers place their number on the "IN" side of the Buddy Board; when they leave, they must tell the dock lifeguard and switch their number tag to the "OUT" side of the Buddy Board. Buddy tags/board will include camper name, swimming ability & allowed swim area.

4 After numbering off the boys, the counselor in charge will have them repeat their numbers before getting into the water. If one boy wants to get out of the water for any reason, both he and his partner must report to the lifeguard in charge. The lifeguard will reassign or remove that number from his buddy count. A counselor not lifeguarding must take a number during the time he is in the water. He must have a partner.

5. When the whistle is blown for a "count-off", (2 long whistle blasts), all swimming and activity must stop right away and every boy must be with his partner when the actual counting beings. If any pair is slow in cooperating, they will be removed from the water for at least 5 minutes. Buddy checks are performed every 15 minutes.

6. Whistle system:

1 Short = Lifeguard is calling for attention. Stop activity and look at lifeguard for instruction. 1 Long Blast = Everyone out of the water. 2 Long Blasts = Buddy Check. Grasp partner’s hand and be ready to call out your number. 3 Long Blasts = Lost Swimmer Search. Everyone goes to buoy line nearest Vikings, links hands and begins foot sweep to find lost swimmer (or submerged object if a drill)

7. There will be absolutely no diving.

8. No objects (rocks, shells, sea weed) are to be thrown spontaneously during a swim period. Running and pushing is not permitted on the dock.

9. Trunks and towels must be pegged to the clothesline nearest the boys sleeping quarters.

10. No swimming except during regular swim periods or with permission by senior staff, and only with lifeguard(s).


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The Commandments of Magic

1. Do not heckle the magician.

2. Always keep your magic in a secure place.

3. Do not practice glass magic on hard surfaces.

4. Do not perform magic in front of a mirror or window.

5. Do not do silk magic in front of a bright light.

6. "Size" your trick to your audience.

7. Guard the secret of the trick from non-magicians.

8. Keep your "patter" going throughout the performance of the trick.

9. Learn basic principles and mechanics usable in many magic tricks.

10. Practice your magic at least 10 times in front of a mirror before performing it in public.

11. Use a helper smaller than yourself.

12. Call a "silk" a "silk handkerchief".

13. Don't play with your magic like a toy.

14. Make sure you have everything ready and set before performing.

15. Do not usually do the same trick before the same audience twice.

16. Put your magic away as soon as you are through performing.

FOUR ESSENTIALS OF DOING GOSPEL MAGIC 1. Study the mechanics of how the trick is done.

2. Be able to perform those mechanics smoothly.

3. Be able to fool people, but never let children believe you perform "real magic".

4. Always be sure to get the message across, even if the trick itself fails.

FOUR THINGS ABOUT VOLUNTEERS 1. Be sure your volunteer is your same height or preferably smaller.

2. Be sure to find out his name and where he is from. Share such information courteously with the rest of the audience.

3. Be sure to tell him what to do and that what you have told him is understood.

4. Be sure to thank him for helping you, and always direct him to be seated.

Remember that hecklers are wrong 9 times out of 10.


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Gospel Team Behavior

PRELIMINARIES: 1. Car

a) Place all your material (Bible, sermons, notebook, magic, extra clothes, etc.) in the car in plenty of time as directed by the gospel team leader.

b) Be at the car, ready to go 10-15 minutes before departure. 2. Dress

a) JIM pin. b) Suit, sports coat or dressy sweater and tie (your Sunday best).

3. Assisting a) Try to help the team leader in any way possible. (e.g., does he need maps,

brochures, instruction sheets?) Don't treat the team leader like a chauffeur. Make this a good opportunity for talk and fellowship.

ARRIVAL AT CHURCH: 1. Be aware, quiet and reverent entering the building. 2. Enter the church building with props tidy and in proper containers. 3. Find out where you are to sit. 4. Preparations for Service

a) Remember: you never have a second chance to make a good first impression. b) Put magic, instruments, vent, music in good locations. Think about congregation

sight lines. (e.g., Are flowers on the communion table hiding people's view?) Check your props to make sure they are ready to go.

c) Ask team leader before going out of sight before service (e.g.,to washroom.) d) Be seated, properly groomed, in plenty of time for the service. e) Be in a prayerful attitude. You are in ministry for God.

THE SERVICE ITSELF: 1. Acknowledge all introductions courteously. 2. Be enthusiastic and interested in all the service and people. Focus your eyes on whoever

is speaking or making a presentation.

FOLLOWING THE SERVICE: 1. Stand at the door to shake hands with the people. Look at people when talked to, and say

something warm and original, rather than just "thank you" each time. 2. Be responsible for props you are assigned to take from and to the car. 3. If eating at the Church afterwards, do not over-indulge. Be gracious and responsive to the

people even at an informal time following the service. Don't show off.


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How to Write an Interesting Letter Writing a good letter isn't really hard at all. Anyone who can think, can write. And they tell us we are always thinking . . . even when asleep we think in our dreams! Letters bring people close together and make each one, the writer and the receiver, that much happier. God wrote a wonderful Love Letter to all of us in the form of our Bible. St. Paul wrote many letters to the churches he visited . . . So we at JIM CLUB write a lot of letters to the boys we have helped along the Christian way of life. And we get many warm-hearted letters from boys all over the country. So why don't you get into this wonderful habit of writing? It will make your heart richer and the world will have a record of some of your greatest thoughts, aims and ambitions. You may inspire others, and you yourself will get a great sense of satisfaction. Letter-writing is a ministry in itself. You might do more for God through a letter than through such things as a sermon or a beautiful song. Think of how excited you are when a personal letter arrives for you. You can bring that same pleasure to others. Below are some hints on "How To Write An Interesting Letter". Follow these suggestions and, when you get home from camp, write to Brian Stapley, your counselor and your "best buds" from JIM Club.

WHAT EVERY LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE: 1. Always state if you received a letter from the person to whom you are writing.

2. Include much of what is of interest to both of you.

3. Think of the other person and his interest . . . not always of yourself. (Ask about his pet

pink rhinoceros even if you personally prefer polka dotted buffalo.)

4. Include any spiritual blessing you have enjoyed lately.

5. Comment on the interesting things you find in the letter you are answering.

6. Give an update on specific things that have happened in your life recently -- at school, in sports, at home, on vacation, in your reading, entertainment, at church, in the neighborhood.

7. Think up new and original ways to end the letter.

8. Make your letter warm and from the heart. Express why you appreciate the person you are

writing to -- give them a boost. Chances are, God will land that letter in their home at just the time they need it.


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Song Leading Guidelines

1. Rhythm, mood, or the size of the crowd determines the size of the song-leading gesture.

2. The downbeat is the most important beat.

3. The position of the hands should generally follow the flow of the beat. (The position of the hands on the downbeat is palms down. On the hold, the hands are pointed more upward.)

4. When leading singing with two hands, if one is to be omitted, it should drop out on the

downbeat, and come back on the upbeat.

5. Don't draw attention to yourself . . . lead the song . . . don't act it.

6. A theme should be followed in the song service. The topical index is helpful in accomplishing this. Examples are as follows: love, prayer, faith, joy, missions, special days, thankfulness, Jesus, praise, second coming, heaven, etc.

7. If you use choruses in the same key, then you may change from one to another without

pausing. In this way, a good pianist could follow you, not worrying about key changes.

8. If at all possible, memorize the verses of songs and stanzas of hymns and choruses that you use.

9. Never lead a song you don't know.

10. Always say something to the audience immediately before they sing, such as: "Altogether,

ready, everybody sing, on the first (second, third, etc.) stanza, sing, etc."

11. At times, vary who sings, such as the following: a) Women, then men.

b) This side of room, then that.

c) Over 30, under 30 years old.

d) Choir, congregation.

e) Read a verse in unison.

f) Read a verse to them while organ and/or piano play.

12. How to introduce a new song:

a) Have piano/organ play it through.

b) Sing (or have someone sing) one stanza as a solo.

c) Have the choir sing a stanza through.

d) Read it to them.

e) Give background of the hymn and/or author.

f) Sing some stanza twice.

g) Repeat the song within a month to refresh memories.


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13. Know difference between the following: a) Hymn, Gospel Song, Chorus.

i. A Hymn is a song generally directed toward God, or about God, or one of the members of the Trinity, or about one of the attributes of God; such as love, grace, truth, justice, etc. It does not usually include a chorus or refrain, though it may.

ii. A Gospel Song is distinguished from a Hymn in that it always contains a chorus or refrain, and is usually directed manward, or is about the application of salvation, or an exhortation to Salvation.

iii. A Chorus is a short song, usually with only one or two verses, and may be on any topic. It often has a lighter, more modern melody.

b) Stanza, Verse, Chorus.

i. A Stanza is a complete series of lines, such as in poetry.

ii. A Chorus or refrain is usually several lines that are repeated after each Stanza.

14. Always acknowledge any introduction cordially.

15. Pre-read selected hymns thoroughly so you can choose stanzas well.

16. Be personal. Smile. Audiences "pick up" friendliness twice as much from facial expression

as from tone of voice.

17. Do not insult the congregational singing; use constructive direction. Encourage audience in singing; be sincere in compliments.

18. When audience is to stand, tell them and indicate when with upraised arm. 19. As the pianist/organist gives the opening note, sing it clearly, thus encouraging audience

participation.

20. Rhythm: the distribution of time in music and is indicated by the use of a Time Signature. The top figure of the Time Signature indicates the number of beats per measure and the lower figure indicates the type of note that receives one beat.

a) Anticipation Beat: used to start the congregation singing at the same time; allows

congregation to take a breath before starting to sing.

b) Ending Note: hold the last note by raising your arm then cut it so that the congregation end together.


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Bible Chapter Memorization Put your love of God's Word into MEMORY. Learn whole Bible chapters -- or more. A Bible chapter can be worth 2 sermons toward winning Hall of Fame awards. You can pick the chapter you like from the list below, but boys 13 or older should pick a chapter longer than 375 words. You can even qualify for awards for chapter memory accomplished during the school year. If you get one chapter memorized, go on to more. Here's the list of chapters you can choose from: WORDS CHAPTER WORDS CHAPTER Genesis 22 694 Exodus 15 429 Exodus 20 462 Joshua 2 708 Ruth 2 697 I Samuel 3 500 I Samuel 9 358 I Kings 17 622 I Kings 19 661 II Kings 2 780 I Chronicles 17 743 Nehemiah 4 532 Job 1 482 Job 2 351 Psalm 19 259 Psalm 22 549 Psalm 25 342 Psalm 33 326 Psalm 34 321 Psalm 45 317 Psalm 66 295 Psalm 90 304 Psalm 91 376 Psalm 103 326 Psalm 139 395 Proverbs 4 411 Proverbs 10 508 Proverbs 22 479 Ecclesiastes 11 257 Ecclesiastes 12 335 Isaiah 6 340 Isaiah 11 470 Isaiah 53 381 Isaiah 55 370 Jonah 1 450 Zechariah 14 636

Matthew 2 414 Matthew 28 414 Luke 15 700 John 10 813 John 15 588 Romans 3 572 Romans 6 523 Romans 12 435 Romans 14 541 I Corinthians 2 365 I Corinthians 12 644 I Thessalonians 4 415 I Thessalonians 5 420 II Thessalonians 3 367 I Timothy 4 325 II Timothy 2 539 Hebrews 1 325 Hebrews 2 435 Hebrews 13 525 James 1 553 James 4 365 I Peter 1 606 I Peter 2 571 II Peter 1 493 I John 3 576 I John 4 489 I John 5 490 Revelation 1 549 Revelation 5 410 Revelation 22 572

NOTE: Bible readings for Personal Devotions in your Leadership Notebook are based on the passages listed above.


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Camper Evaluation Report Camper's Name: Blane Rings Age: 12 Year at Camp: 3rd year Weeks This Year: 2 Report for: 2nd session From: July 15 - July 29, 2006 Counselor: Fred Derf Date: July 28, 2006

GENERAL PLATFORM ABILITY: He is doing well with Platform material. He memorizes quickly and is excellent in delivery. He needs little coaching once he learns a message. He feels a sense of accomplishment to be able to go out on gospel teams and present Christ in several ways. He needs to watch out for selfish pride, which would spoil his very definite talents. He is good in drama. Blane is working on ventriloquism, but is not ready for performance.

SPIRITUAL: I never really observed him spending personal time in the Word. He was open during sharing times in room devotions, and always had some spiritual input or story to tell. He loved to pray.

SOCIAL: Blane follows directions, but apparently forgets instructions or goes back to old ways later on. He gets too chummy with guests, pushing too hard for acceptance. He is loud at the table, tells stories, and always invents little games, possibly for the attention he gains. He would be much better liked if he didn't try so hard to be liked. It almost seems as if he is trying to convince himself of his worth. I have told him that the blood of Christ was how highly God valued Blane.

WORK HABITS: Occasionally he neglected his JIM Job, usually because he got distracted doing something else. He had a tough job, though (Beach, when bad weather left a lot to be cleaned up on the beach). When he does attack his job he knows how to sweat. In this area he did not seek praise, and for that reason seems all the more worthy of praise. He doesn't work as well with others because they get to joking around and get off track. When he did the job by himself, he was thorough.

SPORTS: He plays in sports activities. He is not a great athlete, but gets into the action. He compensates for his lack of physical ability by being humorous on the field. He was a good team member in sports because he encourages teammates.

GENERAL COMMENTS: As for orderliness, Blane was messy. He has a hard time keeping things neat and in place. He was well liked in the room. The other boys often followed his example. He has natural leadership in him. He has a lot of potential. He needs to do be more serious. I feel like this is partly my fault for not challenging him more. I let a lot of my observations take place mentally without sharing my praise or concern to him directly. I hope I can grab a half hour with him when he leaves tomorrow, and I want to write him during the school year. He may be ready to be a C.I.T. in a couple of years. To do this his prime needs are getting his humor in balance, not reaching for applause so much, and deepening his spirituality through regular, personal quiet time.


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Counselor-In-Training Program (C.I.T.)

PURPOSE: The purpose of this C.I.T. program is to prepare boys to become Counselors through a training process over 1 summer & 2 off-seasons. On completion of the C.I.T. program, the trainee should be prepared to enter his next summer as a Counselor.

FIRST OFF-SEASON & SUMMER

QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE C.I.T. PROGRAM: 1. Has been born again.

2. Has attended JIM Club as a camper at least two years.

3. Is at least fourteen years old.

4. Has proved himself competent with various platform material or unusual dedication and dependability.

5. Has desire and potential for leadership.

6. Is especially interested in duty rather than privileges and is willing to perform "tasks of humility" in a servant spirit.

7. Has been recommended by the counseling staff and chosen by the Director and chief Counselor.

REQUIREMENTS: Devote 4 weeks or more of the summer to JIM Club.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. At Home - 1st Off-Season

a) Book 1 The Kneeling Christian

b) Book 2 Improving Your Serve

c) Book 3 Staff Manual

d) Other readings as the C.I.T. may need or desire.

All assignments should be read thoroughly, and a brief (about one page) response should be sent to the C.I.T. Off-Season Supervisor explaining what was specifically learned from the reading, unless instructed otherwise.

2. At Camp - Summer

a) Apprentice as a teacher/leader by teaming with a Counselor leading classes, sports, recreation, etc.

b) Take initiative to be helpful.

c) Help lead smaller boys in the room.

d) Help younger boys in sports, etc.


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e) Spend special one-on-one time with slower boys as directed by a Counselor.

f) Keep up on duties and platform material.

g) Take responsibility for a room at special request.

h) Head up dish crews,

i) Meet once a week with your supervising Counselor to review your progress.

j) Perform other duties as asked by any staff member.

SECOND OFF-SEASON

QUALIFICATIONS: C.I.T. must have completed one year of summer and off-season requirements successfully.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. At Home - 2nd Off-season

a) Book 1 Loving God

b) Book 2 Camp Counselor

c) Book 3 True Discipleship

d) Other readings as the C.I.T. may need or desire.

2. At Camp – Summer

Following successful completion of the C.I.T. program, and recommendation of senior staff, the C.I.T. assumes the role of counselor as outlined in the Staff Manual. The following may help "bridge" the changeover from C.I.T. to counselor in the first few weeks as counselor. Each new counselor will be at different stages of readiness for these tasks:

a) Be prepared to take all or partial charge of a room.

b) Work with another Counselor in teaching some classes (i.e. sermon class, magic practice), and take some classes "solo" in leadership.

c) Be able to demonstrate tricks for magic class.

d) Assist in the kitchen.

e) Assist sports directors and lifeguards.

f) Perform more specialized jobs as assigned.

g) Assist in leading Gospel Teams

RELATIONSHIPS: See "Counselor", Staff Manual.


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SPECIAL NOTE: It is not "automatic" that a C.I.T. become a counselor after the second off-season of his training. Some C.I.T.'s have made a change to W.I.T.'s, or continued as C.I.T.'s, by their own choice, because they did not feel ready to be counselors. A C.I.T. may be asked by the staff to continue in training, because some areas of his leadership need further development. Be fairly sure of this: once you become a C.I.T. you become a more identifiable enemy to Satan; he will do what he can to snuff out the leadership potential which the JIM Club staff have seen in you. The training period of a Counselor-in-Training is not a cake walk. It's challenge and combat. You've seen prominent Christian leaders derailed; stay on the tracks as a leader. And please feel very easy and welcome to come to senior counselors, and Brian Stapley in particular, for help, support, prayer, talk, laughing and crying. We're in this leadership journey with you.

SUPERVISING COUNSELOR: The supervising counselor is (usually) a senior counselor to whom a C.I.T. is appointed. The supervising counselor provides the C.I.T. with a model and personal tutoring in leadership skill. The senior counselor should take this opportunity to relate knowledge and experience which he has learned to the C.I.T.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Model leadership qualities.

2. Model Spiritual growth; pray with and for the C.I.T.

3. Informally relate leadership experience and tools.

4. Actively assist and encourage the C.I.T. with his platform material.

5. Meet at least once each week with the C.I.T. to discuss his progress.

6. Include the C.I.T. in your classes so that he may observe your methods.

7. Gradually give opportunities to participate in teaching (i.e. sermon class, magic practice).

8. Assign special tasks to the C.I.T. such as spending one-to-one time with a slower boy, taking

responsibility of a room for a short time, etc. and check up on the result.

9. Discuss problems or questions with the chief counselor.

10. Fill out an Evaluation Report on the C.I.T. once each session.

11. Help him prepare (in-room) devotions.

12. Take the C.I.T. with you when you perform some of your more specialized tasks, and teach him those same skills, principles (e.g., doing a magic order).


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Worker-In-Training Program (W.I.T.) ("Always have your WIT's about you.")

PURPOSE: The purpose of the Worker-in-Training Program is to provide opportunities and training in physical service for JIM Clubbers who have shown the heart, desire or potential of a "diakonos" - a deacon; a SERVANT. Their work will free up Counselors to spend one-on-one time with boys, prepare for teaching and plan programs, classes, and special events. Though not a Counselor, the WORKER promotes counseling opportunities for others.

DEFINITION: What is a worker? He is a spiritual guy who does physical work. When the early church started their "Worker- in-Training Program", they chose "men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom." [Acts 6:3] Their job? Serving tables. The early Christians knew that even pots and pans and other so-called humdrum tasks could be performed as a Holy business. A specific deed of thankfulness and worship to God. An act of giving back to the Giver.

PERSONNEL: Who is a worker? Usually someone who has been a JIM Clubber for a few years who is approaching his mid-teens (about 14 to 16). He has not yet shown a readiness for the Counselor-in-Training Program, but he may mature into that role. (Senior staff will be glad to sit down and honestly analyze with the Worker what qualities he lacks for counselorship.) "Worker" names this JIM Clubber:

! He is a servant.

! He can work without glory.

! No job is too small for his ego.

! He sees work to be done (initiative).

! He finishes what he starts (finish-ative).

! He is faithful at regular tasks.

! He remembers the wood-pile.

! He's contagious! Others "catch" the work ethic from him.

! He's Christ-like: “Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him.” (Isaiah 42:1)

TRAINING: Most of the training will be on-the-job – training by doing. Because most teenagers have had little opportunity at skilled labor (carpentry, plumbing, electrical, electronics), Workers will be given fairly straightforward jobs. Carefulness, responsibility & willingness to work hard will carry off his jobs well. JIM Club is trying to strengthen its adult maintenance staff each year. In some sessions, a Worker may have an opportunity to partner with an adult worker. In an ideal situation, that adult will have a personal spiritual vision and an ability to share some special, practical skills.


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SUPERVISION: A senior staff member will be responsible for giving direction and leadership to each worker on an individual basis. The Worker will meet briefly with that staff member EACH DAY to plan the next day's schedule and review the past day's work.

SCHEDULE: The daily schedule outlines the camp activities:

! The Worker is WELCOME to participate in ALL those activities.

! He is REQUIRED to attend all meals, rest period, group and personal devotions.

! He can CHOOSE to work in place of classes, sports, free time, and recreation.

The Worker receives a copy of the daily schedule, usually the night before or early in the morning of the same day, and he writes on that copy how he plans to spend the day. The day's plan is given to his supervising staffer for approval. He may change that plan later in the day with approval. The intent of this program is for the worker to spend his time in a way that will be the most meaningful in his own personal development and the most helpful to the success of the JIM Club program as a whole.

PRIVILEGES: The Worker has basically the same privileges as a camper. Extra privileges may be granted at his supervisor's discretion: e.g. extended curfew for lights out, extra store or kitchen snacks, an off-campus outing with C.I.T.'s and/or Counselors. Such privileges are special, not routine.

JOBS: The following are some typical W.I.T. jobs:

! Painting

! Trimming

! Road work

! Digging

! Cutting

! Cleaning

! Computer work

! JIM Jobs requiring greater responsibility and workmanship - beach, pots and pans, garage

! Giving tips and assistance to regular campers with their JIM Jobs

! Setting up for (and cleaning up after) classes or activities when asked by counselors

! Helping prepare camp mailings

! And of course ... "ETC."


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SPIRITUAL VISION: As you consider becoming a Worker-in-Training, give some devotional time to the following: Acts 6: 2-4, 7: (2) Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, "It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God, and serve tables". (3) "Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business". (4)"But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word". (7) And the Word of God increased: and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Once the eminent philosopher, John Dewey, found his son in the bathroom and the floor flooded. The professor began thinking, trying to work out the situation. After working a few minutes, the son said, "Dad, now is not the time to philosophize. It's time to mop."

SIGN OVER SINK: "Divine service conducted here three times daily".

Matthew 20:27-28: "And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many".

"TRUE SERVICE IS LOVE FOR CHRIST IN WORKING CLOTHES"

JOT SHEET: Use the space to remember what tasks you need to do, or to write any questions that you have about becoming a Worker-In-Training. The worst lead pencil in the world is better than a good memory! ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________


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Statement of Mission The Boys JIM Club of America is a non-profit, faith ministry offering Christian leadership training to preteen boys selected from a cross-section of North America. The boys are selected for their perceived dedication of heart, having acknowledged Jesus Christ not only as Saviour, but also as Lord. Superiority of talent and intellect is sought but not required. Race, color and national origin are not discriminating factors in recruitment of boys and staff. The Christian leadership skills include such specialized areas as Gospel magic, ventriloquism, preaching, drama, song-leading, vocal and instrumental music, independent, personal Bible study and prayer, and soul-winning. The religious teaching is evangelical, and conservative. A well-rounded sports and recreation program typically includes traditional sports such as softball, football, soccer, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, basketball, and swimming as well as innovative games. The sports program emphasizes leadership and sportsmanship rather than competition. No charge is made for the boys' room, board, and instruction. Session units are two weeks long, in an overnight camping situation. The JIM Club views itself as a parachurch, gathering boys together who come with their church's commendation and re- enter that local church with maturing spiritual gifts and practical skills which will serve the body of Christ in their community. The Boys JIM Club is non-denominational, non-charismatic, gathered to the Person of Jesus Christ.

Statement of Faith In order to help others understand the Biblical position of the Boys JIM Club of America, we offer the following Statement of Faith. We recognize the limitations of any such summary. The Bible: We believe that "all Scripture is given by inspiration of God," by which we understand the whole Bible is inspired in the sense that holy men of God "were moved by the Holy Spirit" to write the very words of Scripture. We believe that this divine inspiration extends equally and fully to all parts of the writings -historical, poetical, doctrinal, and prophetical -- as appeared in the original manuscripts. We believe that the whole Bible in the originals is therefore without error. We believe that all the Scriptures center about the Lord Jesus Christ in His person and work in His first and second coming, and hence that no portion, even of the Old Testament, is properly read, or understood, until it leads to Him. We also believe that all Scriptures were designed for our practical instruction (Mark 12:26, 36; 13:11; Luke 24:27, 44; John 5:39; Acts 1:16; 2 Peter 1:21) God the Father: We believe in one God eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; three in one, coequal, which is the Trinity. (Hebrews 9:14; Matthew 3:16-1; 1 Corinthians 8:6; 2 Corinthians 3:14)


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Jesus Christ: We believe that Jesus Christ was begotten of God, conceived of the Holy Spirit, and born of the virgin Mary. (John 1:1, 14; 3:13, 16; 14:6; Philippians 2:6-11) Holy Spirit: We believe in the Holy Spirit, third person of the trinity, Who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. He is the life of the believer, and He empowers the preaching and teaching of the Gospel. (Genesis 1:2; John 16:7-14; Acts 2:1-4; 2 Peter 1:21) Man: We believe that man was created in the image of God, that he sinned, and thereby incurred not only physical death, but spiritual death, which is separation from God; and that all human beings are born with a sinful nature and those who reach moral responsibility become sinners in thought, word, and deed. (Romans 5:12, 14, 17; 6:23; 1 Corinthians 2:14; 15:22) Atonement: We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures as a representative and substitutionary sacrifice, and that all who believe in Him are justified on the basis of His shed blood. (Matthew 20:28; Romans 8:3; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 2:2; 4:10) Resurrection: We believe in the resurrection of the crucified body of our Lord, His ascension into heaven and His present life there as High Priest and Advocate for us. (Acts 1:9; 1 Corinthians 15:14; Hebrews 1:3; 1 Peter 2:5)

Return of Christ: We believe in "that blessed hope"; the personal and imminent return of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (Matthew 24:27-31, 36; 25:31; Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; Jude 14) Eternal Life: We believe that all who receive by faith the Lord Jesus Christ are born again of the Holy Spirit, and thereby they become children of God and heirs of eternal life. (John 10:28; Romans 8:31-39; Ephesians 4:30; Philippians 1:6; 1 Peter 1:5; 1 John 5:6) Judgment: We believe in the bodily resurrection of the just and the unjust, the everlasting conscious suffering of the lost, and the eternal joy of the saved, which demand a literal heaven and hell. (Acts 24:15; 1 Corinthians 15:12-58; 2 Corinthians 4:14; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-16) Satan: We believe in the existence of Satan, the deceiver, who is still working in the world to destroy the souls of men and that he and all his angels and all who receive not Christ as their Saviour will perish in the lake of fire. (Isaiah 14:12-14; Luke 4:6-7; John 8:44; 1 John 3:8) Church: We believe in the church, the body of Christ, whose mission it is to worship God, equip the saints, and preach the Gospel to all the world. (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:11-13; 5:23-32; Colossians 1:18, 24; 1 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Peter 2:5) Ordinances: We believe that the ordinances of the church, given by our Lord, are baptism and the Lord's supper. (Matthew 3:13-15; 26:26-30; 28:18-20; Romans 6:3-4; 1 Corinthians 11:18-32; Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21)

Adopted by Board of Directors, Boys JIM Club of America,

Bemus Point, NY 14712 - March 2, 1985


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Motels Near JIM Club For parents, relatives and friends who may want to visit and stay over. Book early - Chautauqua Lake is a resort area and there is often no vacancy if you wait until a few days before arriving.

Best Western 3912 Vineyard Dr., Dunkirk, NY, 14048 Phone: (716) 366-7100 or 1-888-386-5475 Web: http://www.bestwestern.com Best Western -Downtown Jamestown Inn & Suites 200 W. Third St., Jamestown, NY, 14701 Phone: (716) 484-8400 Web: http://www.bestwestern.com/downtownjamestown Chautauqua Lake Motel & Efficiency Apartments P.O. Box 28, Route 430, Bemus Point, NY, 14712 Phone: (716) 386-4005 or 1-888-642-7117 Web: http://www.chautauqualakemotel.com Clarion Hotel, Marina & Conference Center 30 Lakeshore Dr. East, Dunkirk, NY, 14048 Phone: (716) 366-8350 Web: http://www.clariondunkirk.com College Lodge Route 380, Brocton, NY, 14716 Phone: (716) 792-4214 Web: http://www.collegelodge.com Colony Motel 620 Fairmount Ave., Jamestown, NY, 14701 Phone: (716) 488-1904 Web: http://www.thecolonymotel.com Comfort Inn of Fredonia/Dunkirk 3925 Vineyard Dr., Dunkirk, NY, 14048 Phone: (866) 386-2663 Web: http://www.ComfortInn.com Comfort Inn of Jamestown 2800 North Main St., Jamestown, NY, 14701 Phone: (716) 664-5920 or 1-800-453-7155 Web: http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel/ny403 Days Inn - Fredonia/Dunkirk 10455 Bennett Rd., Fredonia, NY, 14068 Phone: (716) 673-1351 or 1-800-DAYSINN Web: http://www.the.daysinn.com/fredonia05551

Dunkirk Motel 310 Lake Shore Dr. West, Dunkirk, NY 14048 Phone: 1-866-310-LAKE or (716) 366-2200 Fairmount Motel 138 West Fairmount Ave., Lakewood, NY, 14750 Phone: (716) 763-9550 Web: http://www.fairmountmotel.com Hampton Inn & Suites 4 West Oak Hill Road, Jamestown, NY, 14701 Phone: (716) 484-8400 Web: http://www.hamptoninn.hilton.com Holiday Inn 150 West Fourth St., Jamestown, NY, 14701 Phone: (716) 664-3400 or 1-800-HOLIDAY Web: http://www.holiday-inn.com/jamestownny Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 3025 Route 426, Findley Lake, NY, 14736 Phone: (716) 769-7900 or 1-800-HOLIDAY Web: http://www.hiexpress.com/findleylkny Magnolia Motel 3994 Route 394, Stow, NY, 14785 Phone: (716) 789-3447 Web: http://www.magnoliamotel.com Pine Hill Cottages and Motel 3884 Park Way (off Route 394 at Woodlawn), Ashville, NY, 14710 Phone: (716) 789-3543 Web: http://www.snowridgemotel.com Thruway Holiday Motel 223 North Portage St., Westfield, NY, 14787 Phone: (716) 326-3741 White Inn 52 East Main St., Fredonia, NY, 14063 Phone: (716) 672-2103 or 888-FREDONIA Web: http://www.whiteinn.com


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Section B – Eight Keys for the Christian Leader (Adapted from "Counsel for Christian Converts", by Elliott Horton)

Key #1: Salvation – The Leader’s Beginning

INTRODUCTION: He should be fully persuaded that through faith in the crucified and risen Savior, he possesses salvation, and that this salvation is eternal. There must be complete trust in God's Word.

1. WHY DO I NEED TO BE SAVED? a) You are a sinner. Romans 3:2 b) You are a condemned sinner. Romans 5:18 c) You are a helpless sinner. Romans 5:6

2. CAN I BE SAVED BY LIVING THE BEST I KNOW HOW?

a) Salvation is not by works. Romans 4:5 b) It is not by works of righteousness. Titus 3;5 c) It is not by works of the law. Galatians 2;16

3. WILL BAPTISM OR CHURCH MEMBERSHIP SAVE ME?

a) Salvation is not in the church. Acts 4;12 b) Salvation is not by baptism. I Peter 3:21 c) Salvation is not by ordinances. Ephesians 2:15

4. WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

a) You must repent. Luke 13.3 b) You must believe the gospel. Romans 1:16 c) You must receive Christ. John 1:12

5. WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN I GET SAVED?

a) You will become a child of God. Galatians 3;26 b) You will be forgiven and justified. Acts 13:38,39 c) You will begin a new life. II Corinthians 5;17

6. HOW DO I KNOW IT WILL LAST?

a) Christ promised eternal life. John 10;28 b) Christ will never forsake you. Hebrews 13:5 c) God completes His work. Philippians 1:6

7. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BE SAVED?

a) God commands all men to repent now. Acts 17;30 b) Now is the time to be saved. II Corinthians 6:2 c) Tomorrow may never come. Proverbs 27:1


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Key #2: The Leader’s Duties

INTRODUCTION: Christ saves us, not because of our service, but that we might perform acceptable service. Ephesians 2:10 says, "We are created in Christ Jesus unto good works." The constant prayer of every believer should be, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" The Bible reveals clearly that all believers have certain obligations or duties to fulfill. The Christian leader is not excluded from these duties.

1. CONFESS CHRIST. a) You are to confess publicly. Matthew 10:32 b) You are the world's light. (reflected) Matthew 5:14 c) You are Christ's witness. Acts 1:8

2. BE BAPTIZED (Immersed).

a) Faith must precede baptism. Acts 8:36,37 b) Baptism is an act of obedience. Matthew 28:19 c) Baptism links us with Christ. Galatians 3:27 d) Baptism is a picture of death and resurrection. Romans 6:4

3. UNITE WITH A BIBLICAL CHURCH.

a) The church is Christ's body. Colossians 1:18 b) The church is composed of people. Romans 12:5 c) The church needs all its members. I Corinthians 12:22 d) All believers need the church. Ephesians 4:12,13

4. KEEP THE LORD'S SUPPER. (I Corinthians 11:2)

a) It was instituted by Christ. I Corinthians 11:23 b) It has a deep meaning. Luke 22:19,20 c) It is to be observed till Jesus returns. I Corinthians 11:26 d) It is to be kept with all seriousness. I Corinthians 11:27 e) It is to be preceded by self-examination. I Corinthians 11:28

5. BE FAITHFUL.

a) In church attendance. Hebrews 10:25 b) In the service of Christ. I Corinthians 15:58 c) In running the Christian race. Hebrews 12:1,2 d) In keeping on as long-as life shall last. Revelation 2:10

6. LIVE RIGHTEOUSLY.

a) This is God's purpose for believers. I Peter 2:24 b) Believers are to grow in race. II Peter 1:5-8 c) Believers are not to be bound by sin. Romans 6:12-14


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Key #3: The Leader’s Church Fellowship

INTRODUCTION: Every new convert should be advised to unite with a Christ-centered. Bible-believing, gospel-preaching New Testament church. Many churches carry the name Christian who have no rightful title to it. One should unite only with a church which qualifies as a New Testament church. The following questions will prove helpful in choosing a church that meets God's approval.

1. WHERE DID IT ORIGINATE? a) God created the church at Pentecost. I Corinthians 12:12,13 b) God established the church through the Apostles, I Corinthians 12:28 c) The church has never been destroyed. Matthew 16:18 d) The church was purchased at Calvary. Ephesians 5:25

2. WHO IS THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH?

a) Christ is the only Head. Ephesians 5:23 b) Churches are accountable to Christ. Revelation 2 and 3 c) The church gathers to the name of Christ. Matthew 18:20

3. DOES IT HAVE A SOLID FOUNDATION?

a) Christ is the only foundation. I Corinthians 3:11 b) A pure gospel should be its central message. Galatians 1:9 c) Based on teaching of God through apostles and prophets. Ephesians 2:20

4. IS THE NEW TESTAMENT BELIEVED AND TAUGHT?

a) Christ's teachings are authoritative. I Timothy 6:3,4 b) The early church followed apostles' teaching. Acts 2:42 c) It is a grave sin to reject Christ's doctrine. II John 9

5. DOES IT HAVE SCRIPTURAL LEADERS AND SERVANTS?

a) Elders (Overseer) I Timothy 3:1-7 b) Deacons (Servant) I Timothy 3:8-13

6. DOES IT OBSERVE NEW TESTAMENT ORDINANCES?

a) The ordinance of baptism. Romans 6:3,4 b) The ordinance of Communion. I Corinthians 11:23-26

7. IS IT A MISSIONARY CHURCH?

a) Christ commissioned His church. Matthew 28:19,20 b) Each believer is His personal witness. Acts 1:8


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Key #4: The Leader’s Bible

INTRODUCTION: The Bible is God's Book, written by men as they were "moved by the Spirit." It is the sword of the Spirit. Some one has written: "Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier s sword, and the Christian's charter."

1. IT IS THE INCORRUPTIBLE SEED. a) It regenerates (gives life). I Peter 1:23 b) It should be received meekly. James 1:21

2. IT IS A MIRROR.

a) It reveals our condition. James 1:23

3. IT IS FOOD FOR THE SOUL. a) It is milk for babies. 1 Peter 2:2 b) It is bread for the hungry. Deuteronomy 8:3 c) It is meat for the mature. Hebrews 5:12-14

4. IT IS A LIGHT. a) It lightens our pathway. Psalm 119:105 b) It reveals God's program. II Peter 1:19

5. IT IS A LAVER.

a) It purifies the church. Ephesians 5:26 b) It is a divine cleansing agent. John 17:17

6. IT IS A WEAPON.

a) It is quick and powerful. Hebrews 4:12 b) It is the Spirit's sword. Ephesians 6:17 c) It is a heart-breaker. Jeremiah 23:29

7. IT IS ETERNAL.

a) It will outlast heaven and earth. Matthew 24:35

8. IT IS EFFECTIVE. a) It is guaranteed to accomplish the divine purposes. Isaiah 55:11


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Key #5: The Leader’s Prayer Life

INTRODUCTION: Prayer is to the soul what breathing is to the body. Spiritual life cannot be long maintained without prayer. May our desire be, "Lord, teach me to pray."

1. THE NATURE OF PRAYER. a) Confession of sins. I John 1:9; Psalms 32:5 b) Supplication. Hebrews 5:7 c) Intercession for others. James 5:16; Romans 10:1 d) Thanksgiving to God. Philippians 4:6 e) Worship. John 4:23,24

2. THE ORDER OF PRAYER.

a) To the Father. John 16:23 b) In the name of Jesus. John 14:13 c) In the Holy Spirit. Jude 20

3. THE BASIS OF PRAYER.

a) Relationship with God. Romans 8:15 b) The blood of Christ. Hebrews 10;19,20 c) The promises of God. Romans 10:13-15

4. THE CONDITIONS OF PRAYER.

a) In faith, believing. Matthew 21,,21,22 b) In God's will. I John 5:14,15 c) In righteousness. I John 3:22,23

5. SOME OBJECTIVES OF PRAYER.

a) Salvation. Romans 10:13 b) Wisdom and guidance. James 1:5 c) Temporal needs. Matthew 6:11 d) Sickness. James 5:14,15 e) Civil authorities. I Timothy 2:2 f) Our enemies. Matthew 5:44 g) Christ's return. Matthew 6:10

6. HINDRANCES TO PRAYER.

a) Unconfessed sin. Isaiah 59:1,2 b) Refusal of forgiveness. Matthew 6:14,15 c) Bad feelings between believers. Matthew 5:23 d) Selfishness. James 4:3 e) Home disharmony. I Peter 3:1,7 f) Doubts. James 1:6,7 g) Ignorance. Romans 8:26


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Key #6: The Leader and His Witnessing

INTRODUCTION: Jesus told the disciples that they were to be His witnesses. A Christian's business is to reproduce other Christians. This can only be done effectively in the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8

1. THE PURPOSE IN WITNESSING. a) Salvation of the lost. Proverbs 11:30

2. PRINCIPLES TO FOLLOW IN WITNESSING.

a) Seek divine wisdom and guidance. James 3:17

b) Be earnest, be firm, be courteous. I Peter 2:17

c) Avoid unprofitable arguments. I Timothy 6:3-5

d) Explain clearly the gospel. I Corinthians 15:1-4

e) Make plain the conditions of salvation. Acts 20:21

f) Seek an immediate decision. Acts 17:30,31

g) Show the basis of Christian assurance. I John 5:10,11

3. PROBLEMS FOUND IN WITNESSING.

a) "I am good enough." John 3;3; Ecclesiastes 7;20

b) "Oh, I am too busy." Hebrews 2,3; Luke 12:20

c) "I don't know which is the right way." John 14:6

d) "I will become a Christian some day." II Corinthians 6:2

e) "I don't think I could last." I Corinthians 10:13; Jude 24,25

f) "I don't feel like being saved now." Acts 17:30

g) "I have committed the unpardonable sin." Mark 3:28-30

h) "I don't want to lose my friends." Matthew 10:37

i) "I am too great a sinner." Isaiah 55:7; John 6:37

j) "I want to enjoy living." Matthew 11:30; Psalm 16:11

4. PROMISES FOR THOSE WHO WITNESS.

a) "He that winneth souls is wise." Proverbs 11:30

b) A harvest of souls. Psalms 126:6

c) A reward for faithfulness. Galatians 6:9


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Key #7: The Leader’s Walk

INTRODUCTION: The Christian's life begins at conversion. Life means growth and progress. (II Peter 3:18) Some Christians never grow up. (I Corinthians 3:1) God has provided all things that are needed to nourish and strengthen your spiritual life so that you can walk worthy of your calling by God. (Ephesians 4:1) The believer should be Christ-like in character and conduct.

1. BE A STUDIOUS LEADER. Study for God's approval. II Timothy 2:15

2. BE A SHINING LEADER.

God wants the world to see your works. Matthew 5:16

3. BE A SANCTIFIED LEADER. God can only use clean vessels. II Timothy 2:21

4. BE A SOBER LEADER.

Satan is a sly enemy. I Peter 5:8

5. BE A SEPARATED LEADER. People are influenced by their companions. II Corinthians 6:17

6. BE A SURRENDERED LEADER.

God wants only what is best. Romans 12:1,2

HELP IN DETERMINING WHAT IS RIGHT: 1. Does it meet divine approval? Colossians 3:23

2. Does it bring glory to God? I Corinthians 10:31

3. Does it give a bad impression? I Thessalonians 5:22

4. Does it weaken or hurt a brother? Romans 14-.21

5. Does it create doubts? Romans 14:22,23

6. Does it cause evil results? Galatians 6:7

7. Does it edify? Romans 14.:19


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Key # 8: The Leader’s Hope

INTRODUCTION: Every believer is a citizen of heaven with his name written in the Book of Life. (Philippians 4:3) He is a pilgrim and a stranger destined for the eternal and holy city being built by Christ. The eyes of the believer are directed to that blessed hope and glorious appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ when death will be destroyed and righteousness will prevail.

1. IS CHRIST COMING AGAIN? a) The O.T. predicted it. Zechariah 14:4 b) The Gospels teach it. Matthew 25:31-34 c) The Epistles explain it. II Thessalonians 1:7-10 d) The Revelation pictures it. Revelation 1:7; 19:11,16

2. WHY IS HE COMING?

a) To receive His own. John 14:1-3 b) To deliver Israel. Romans 11:26 c) To punish the wicked. Jude 14:15 d) To separate the wicked from the righteous. Matthew 13:49 e) To set up the Kingdom. Revelation 11:15; II Timothy 4:1

3. WHEN IS HE COMING?

a) In a time of scientific progress. Daniel 12:4 b) In a time of moral decay. II Timothy 3:1-5 c) In a time when some scoff. II Peter 3:3 d) In a time when the rich trample the poor. James 5:3-4,7 e) In a time of religious emptiness. II Thessalonians 2:3 f) In a time of world-wide distress. Luke 21:25-26

4. WHAT WILL HEAVEN BE LIKE?

a) There will be lots of room. John 14:1 b) Christians will be together forever. I Thessalonians 4:17 c) Our bodies will be incorruptible. Philippians 3:21 d) All sorrow, pain, and death will end. Revelation 21:4 e) Everything will be new. Revelation 21:5 f) Rewards will be distributed. Revelation 11:18; 22:12 g) No sin will enter in. Revelation 21:27

5. WHO WILL LIVE IN HEAVEN?

a) Not the unrighteous. I Corinthians 6;9 b) Not those doing the works of the flesh. Galatians 5:19,20 c) Only redeemed people. Isaiah 35:9,10 d) Those who are obedient to Christ. Revelation 22:14 e) Those who go by way of Christ. John 14:1-6


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Section C – What Is Christian Leadership?

Food for THOUGHT with room to JOT

1. What do the words "lead", "leader", "leadership" mean? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. Don't the qualities of leadership contradict the call to be a follower (disciple) and servant (deacon)?

______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

3. Is the Christian view of leadership the same as the world's? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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4. Leaders:

a) Who were leaders in the Word of God? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

b) What did the Bible leaders do which seems to qualify them as leaders? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

c) What strengths did they have? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

d) What weaknesses did God help them overcome ? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. What areas of our Christian life are usually described as "positions of leadership"? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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6. In Titus 1:5-9, there are very specific requirements laid down for the office of bishop

(overseer). Similarly, are there definite requirements for leadership? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

7. What might prevent someone from being a Christian leader? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

8. What is the price of leadership? (What special demands can a leader expect upon his or her life?)

______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

9. Why would a Christian want to assume leadership? (good and bad motives) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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Definitions and Scripture References

TO LEAD: ! To conduct; to cause to go along with oneself.

! To bring or take a person to a place.

! To guide, especially by going on in advance.

! To serve as an indication of the way.

! A commander who marches at the head and directs movement of something, by hand, or, by

persuasion.

! To conduct water through a channel or pipe. ("The Love of God constraineth us.")

"LEAD": ! Genesis 33:14; Exodus 13:21 (God led the leader too); 32:34; Numbers 27:16,17;

Deuteronomy 4:27; 20:9; 28:37; 32:12; Judges 5:12; 1 Samuel 30:22; 2 Chronicles 30:9; Nehemiah 9:19; Job 19:24; Psalm 5:8; 25:5; 27:11; 31:3; 43:3; 60:9; 61:2; 108:10; 125:5; 139:10 (connect with loneliness); 143:10; Proverbs 6:22; 8:20; Ecclesiastes 8:2; Isaiah 3:12; 11:6; 20:4; 40:10,11; 42:16; 49:10; 57:18; 63:14 (leader's leader); Jeremiah 6:29; 31:9; 32:5; Nahum 2:7.

! Matthew 6:13; 15:14; Mark13:11; 14:44; Luke 6:39; 11:4; 13:15; Acts 13:11; I Corinthians 9:5; 1 Timothy 2:2; II Timothy 3:6; Hebrews 8:9; Revelation 7:17.

"LEADERS": ! II Chronicles 32:21; Isaiah 9:16.

! Matthew 15:14.

"LEADER": ! I Chronicles 12:27; 13:1; Isaiah 55:4.

"LEADEST": ! Psalm 80:1.

"LEADETH": ! I Samuel 13:17; Job 12:17,19; Psalm 23; 2,3; Proverbs 16:29; Isaiah 48:17.

! Matthew 7:13,14; Mark 9:2; John 10:3; Acts 12:10; Romans 2:4; Revelation 13:10.


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The Servant / Leader

SERVANTS, SERVICE and SERVING

DIAKONOS (deacon, deaconess) ! Matthew 20:26; 22:13; 23:11 ! Mark 9:35; 10:43 ! John 2:5, 9; 12:26 ! Romans 13:4; 15:8; 16:1 ! 1 Corinthians 3:5 ! 2 Corinthians 3:6; 6:4; 11:15, 23 ! Galatians 2:17 ! Ephesians 3:7; 6:21 ! Philippians 1:1 ! Colossians 1:7,23,25; 4:7 ! 1 Thessalonians 3:2 ! 1 Timothy 3:8,12; 4:6

DIAKONIA (service) ! Luke 10:40 ! Acts 1:17,25; 6:1,4; 11:29; 12:25;20:24; 21:19 ! Romans 11:13; 12:7; 15:31 ! 1 Corinthians 12:5; 16:15 ! 2 Corinthians 3:7-9; 4:1; 5:18; 6:3; 8:4; 9:1,12-13; 11:8 ! Ephesians 4:12 ! Colossians 4:17 ! 1 Timothy 1:12 ! 2 Timothy 4:5, 11 ! Hebrews 1:14 ! Revelation 2:19

DIAKONEO (to serve) ! Matthew 4:11; 8:15; 20:28; 25:44; 27:55 ! Mark 1:13,31; 10:45; 15:41 ! Luke 4:39; 8:3; 10:40; 12:37; 17:8; 22:26-27 ! John 12:2, 26 ! Acts 6:2; 19:22 ! Romans 15:25 ! 2 Corinthians 3:3; 8:19-20 ! 1 Timothy 3:10,13 ! 2 Timothy 1:18 ! Philemon 13 ! Hebrews 6:10 ! 1 Peter 1:12; 4:10-11


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The Strong Natural Leader

1. Has strong personal ideas 2. Ready to take action 3. Bold 4. Has lots of human energy 5. May be more interested in his goals than in people 6. Tends to feel superior to those who work with him 7. Self-centered 8. Has difficulty tolerating people who don't do a good job 9. Feels he is indispensable

Born or Made Leaders? NATURAL SPIRITUAL

1. Self-confident

2. Knows men

3. Makes own decisions

4. Ambitious

5. Originates own methods

6. Enjoys commanding others

7. Motivated by personal considerations

8. Independent

1. In God

2. Knows God

3. Seeks to find God's Will

4. Self-effacing

5. Finds and follows God's methods

6. Delights to obey God

7. Motivated by love for God and man

8. God-dependent

Dr. A.W. Tozer said this about leadership: "A true self leader is likely to be one who has no desire to lead, but is forced into a position of leadership by the inward pressure of the Holy Spirit and the press of external situation. Such were Moses and David and the Old Testament prophets. I think there was hardly a great leader from Paul to the present day but was drafted by the Holy Spirit for the task, and commissioned by the Lord of the Church to fill a position he had little heart for. I believe it might be accepted as a fairly reliable rule of thumb that the man who is ambitious to lead is disqualified as a leader. The true leader will have no desire to lord it over God's heritage, but will be humble, gentle, self-sacrificing and altogether as ready to follow as to lead, when the Spirit makes it clear that a wiser and more gifted man than himself has appeared." In his book, Serious Call, William Law says: "Let every day be a day of humility; condescend to all the weaknesses and infirmities of your fellow-creatures, cover their frailties, love their excellencies, encourage their virtues, relieve their wants, rejoice in their prosperities, sympathize with their distress, receive their friendship, overlook their unkindness, forgive their malice, be a servant of servants, and condescend to do the lowliest offices of the lowest of mankind."


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Mini-Biographies of Some Christian Leaders God prepared Adoniram Judson to pioneer His work in Burma by equipping him with the appropriate qualities -- self-reliance balanced by humility, energy restrained by carefulness, patience, self-forgetfulness, courage, and a passion for souls. Martin Luther, the great Reformer, was described as a man easy to approach; totally without personal pride; so simple in his tastes that men wondered how he could live on so little; full of common sense and playful humor; as honest as the day is long; very sincere. Added to that was his bold courage, unbending conviction, and passion for Christ. It is no wonder that he bound men to him with bonds of steel, Professor G. Warneck described how fully God equipped Hudson Taylor for his pioneering work in China: "A man full of faith and the Holy Ghost, of entire surrender to God and His call, of great self-denial, heart-felt compassion, rare power in prayer, marvelous organizing faculty, tireless perseverance, and of astounding influence with men, and with childlike simplicity himself." Samuel Chadwick, the great Methodist preacher, made an impact on his generation. He disciplined himself strictly, rising at six in the morning, shaving and having a cold bath, summer and winter. He got along with very little sleep. His study light was rarely turned off before two in the morning. That strict program was the outward part; his inner discipline made him a powerhouse. All through his life, George Whitefield was an early riser; his usual hour to start the day was four o'clock. He was equally punctual in retiring at night. As the clock struck ten, no matter who were his visitors or what conversation was going on at the moment, he rose from his seat and, advancing toward the door, he would say good-naturedly to his friends, "Come, gentlemen, it is time for all good folks to be at home."


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Leadership in Christ’s Body, the Church (Christ is the Actual Head)

LEADERS AMONG THE PEOPLE 1. PURPOSE GIVEN IN THE BIBLE:

To sustain and nurture LIFE, to equip, to allow Christ to transform lives and lead people into ministry.

2. BUILDING PEOPLE RELATIONSHIPS:

Guiding people into loving, supportive relationships, using small gatherings to help people learn to "prefer one-another" (JIM Club key verse).

3. BUILDING SPIRIT OF MINISTRY TOWARD EACH OTHER:

Persuading believers that the Holy Spirit is transforming their lives and empowering them to minister to each other, equipping them to serve one another's needs.

4. DEVELOPING A PRAYER AND WORSHIP LIFE STYLE:

Encouraging prayer and worship in the group, providing non-threatening and close times when people can learn together to tell God they love Him, trust Him, and need Him.

5. ENCOURAGING LOYALTY:

Building loyalty to Jesus Christ, head of the church and the real leader of the local congregation, rather than encouraging allegiance to a pastor, a teacher, or a board.

6. PROVIDING AN EXAMPLE:

Building close and open friendships with people, allowing them to see strengths as well as weaknesses in our lives.

7. EXERCISING BIBLICAL AUTHORITY:

Leading from weakness, always building up people, and using the Word of God to encourage, exhort, confront and teach, depending totally on Christ to work in people's lives in a powerful way.

8. COMMUNICATING CONFIDENCE:

Demonstrating strong confidence in people, because Christ is at work in people's lives.

9. PRESERVING FREEDOM: Helping people to look to Christ for their leadership and decisions; refusing to humanly plan and mechanically organize the ministries of people.


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Measuring Your Leadership Potential

1. Have you ever broken yourself of a bad habit? To lead others, you must be master of yourself.

2. Do you keep control of yourself when things to wrong? The leader who loses self-control in testing circumstances loses respect and influence. He must be calm in crisis.

3. Do you think independently? While using to the full the ideas of others, the leader cannot expect to let others do his thinking or make his decisions for him.

4. Can you handle criticism? The humble man can get benefit even from wrongful criticism.

5. Can you use disappointments creatively?

6. Do you win the cooperation, respect and confidence of others?

7. Do you maintain discipline without having to show off your authority?

8. Have you qualified as a peacemaker? It is much easier to keep the peace than to make peace where it has been shattered. A leader can discover common ground between opposing viewpoints and then lead both parties to accept it.

9. Do people trust you to handle difficult and delicate situations?

10. Can you lead people to do gladly some positive thing that they might not normally wish to do?

11. Can you accept opposition to your viewpoint or decision without considering it a personal attack? Leaders can expect opposition.

12. Do you find it easy to make and keep friends? Your loyal friends are a measure of the quality of your leadership.

13. Are you too dependent on the praise or approval of others?

14. Do those you lead seem at ease in your presence? A leader should show sympathetic understanding and friendliness that will put others at ease.

15. Are you really interested in people of all types and races? Is there hidden prejudice?

16. Do you possess tact? Can you anticipate the likely effect of a statement before you make it?

17. Do you possess a strong and steady will? A leader should not always be wavering.

18. Do you nurse a grudge, or do you easily forgive injuries done to you?

19. Are you reasonably optimistic? Pessimism is no asset to a leader,

20. Do you welcome responsibility?

21. Are you gripped by a passion to do what God has specially given you to do? Do you have a clear vision of what that leadership task is?


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The Price of Leadership (Boys Sermon A-41) [Based on the recorded message by JIMMIE DAVIS, JIM Club FOUNDER]

Isaiah 54:4 - "Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people,

a leader and commander to the people". A leader is one who can see the end from the beginning; one who can blaze the way and one who can bring others after him. Leadership, like anything worthwhile, must be paid for with a price. Its most essential ingredients are VISION, DECISION, KNOWLEDGE, SELF-EFFACEMENT, LONELINESS, PASSION and SACRIFICE. VISION: The Bible tells that "Without a vision the people perish." Catching sight of a vision is what makes world leaders. What made Wesley and Whitefield great? What made John Knox great? What made Martin Luther great? Vision! And just as we are made in the image and likeness of God, so our vision of high aspiration is no good until it is brought into a likeness, or in other words, fulfilled. Too often, between the great things that we long to do, and the little things that we scorn to do, lies the greater danger of doing nothing. Vision must be followed by decision. DECISION is a tremendous word! Paul said, "This one thing I DO ..." It isn't enough just to see, but to seize. Through decision consistent with God's will, we can bring vision into likeness. What if the men who had the vision of the cross-country railroad only had a vision? Their so-called vision would have dissolved into a pipe-dream. Let us follow the example of Christ who set His face as a flint to his appointed task. Now we must move on to KNOWLEDGE. Spiritual knowledge, coupled with the wisdom imparted by the Holy Spirit is a must for a leader. And we have his promise of both: In John 8:32, we read, "And ye shall KNOW the truth, and the truth shall make you free;" and in James 1:5, "If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God who giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." SELF-EFFACEMENT: With knowledge and wisdom in our store of usable resources, we must be careful not to become "wise in our own conceits". Many a man's greatness is canceled by his egotism, pride and greed. He forgets that it is the rudder, not the prow, that controls the ship. Be willing to take a back seat. Follow the example of John The Baptist who deemed himself unworthy to untie the shoe-string of our Lord. He said, "He must increase; I must decrease." When you are wrong, admit it frankly and honestly. A leader must experience sadness for unwise action. The Psalmist assures us, "A broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise." God demands a whole heart, but He will accept a broken one, provided He gets all the pieces. Share with me this poem concerning humility and pride: Sometime when you're feeling important Pull it out and the hole that's remaining Sometime when your ego's in bloom Is a measure of how you'll be missed. Sometime when you take it for granted You may splash all you please when you enter, You're the best qualified in the room... You can stir up the water galore Sometime when you feel that your going But stop and you'll find in a minute, Would leave an unfillable hole, That it looks quite the same as before. Just follow this simple direction The moral to this little story And see how it humbles your soul. Is to do just the best that you can... Take a bucket and fill it with water, Be proud of yourself, but remember - Put your hand in it up to the wrist... THERE IS NO INDISPENSABLE MAN!


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Self-effacement will help prepare us for the next pre-requisite of leadership: LONELINESS. Most leaders have been lonely in their lives: Winston Churchill in the dark days of the Second World War; Columbus and his theory of the world; Galileo with his insight into the whole order of the solar system. A great leader must be shut in to his ideals and be much misunderstood. He must have sources of gladness that are not dependent on anything in this world. There are some thoughts so great that only the visionary can understand them. Someone has aptly said, "Solitude is the mother country of the strong." The song says, "Take time to be holy, the world rushes on." Yes, in the onward rush of the world, your sacrificial spirit will bring you loneliness, so expect it and ask His guidance as you dare to be different. The impact of your private dedication will be felt by the world around you. PASSION: To round out the knowledge mentioned before, we must possess passion. Head and heart teaming up on a problem; intelligence and emotion coming to grips with the situation; this is one secret of bringing life to a higher plateau. Intelligence alone often results in a cold personality. Emotion alone brings a wishy-washy, namby-pamby, pussy-footing, back-scratching, and flabby personality. Passion is emotion controlled by intelligence. If your emotions can not be stirred to a tear or your voice break or reveal a tremor, you are not ready for leadership. SACRIFICE: The last qualification of a leader is sacrifice. The Christian leader must join the hymn which says, "Take the world but give me Jesus." Never since the callous days of the Caesars has Christ been on trial as today. Why? Because it is the devil's last ditch to trip God's chosen ones. In this day of enlightenment, he can't resort to guillotines and burning at the stake. He must be more subtle and waylay Christians with less obvious means. Until you are ready to forsake his sinister sidelines of worldly attraction, you can never achieve greatness. And we are speaking of greatness in God's eyes, not the eyes of the world. The world's reformers look to the crowd; believers look to the cloud. Once a church was in need of a pastor and asked for applications. One of the deacons, interested in knowing just what kind of minister they desired, wrote a letter as if he had received it from an applicant, and then read it before the pulpit committee: "Understanding that your pulpit is vacant, I should like to apply for the position. I have many qualifications I think you would appreciate. I preach with power and have had some success as a writer. Some say that I am a good organizer. I have been a LEADER in most places that I have gone. Some folks, however, have some things against me. I am over fifty years of age. I have never preached in one place more than three years. In some places I have been driven out of own after my work caused riots and disturbances. I have to admit that I have been in jail three or four times, but not because of any real wrong-doing. My health is not too good, and I have to work at my trade to help pay my way. The churches I have preached in have been small, though located n several large cities. I haven't gotten along too well with the religious leaders in the towns where I have preached; in fact, some have threatened me and even attacked me physically. I am not too good at keeping records. I have even been known to forget whom I baptized. However, if you can use me, I shall do my best for you, even if I have to work to help with my support." After reading the letter, the deacon asked the committee if they were interested in the applicant. They replied emphatically, NO! They then asked the name of the applicant, whereupon the deacon replied, "The Apostle Paul". John Ruskin was once asked what makes a good artist? Ponder his reply: "An eye to see, A heart to feel, A hand to perform". We must see the need, have a heart to sympathize, and then the ability to fill that need. VISION, DECISION, KNOWLEDGE, SELF EFFACEMENT, LONELINESS, PASSION and SACRIFICE - Will you and I step out to lead for God? May we echo the cry of Isaiah, "Here am I. Send me."


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Your Leadership Journal R.E. Thompson suggests these tests of our attitudes as an indication of how ready we are for leadership:

1. Do other people's failures annoy us or challenge us? 2. Do we use people or cultivate people? 3. Do we direct people or develop people? 4. Do we criticize or encourage? 5. Do we shun the problem person or seek him out?

Samuel Brengle wrote: "Spiritual power is the outpouring of spiritual life, and like all life, from that of the moss and lichen on the wall to that of the archangel before the throne, is from God." Therefore those who aspire to leadership must pour out their life, and seek God to renew their life. Use the space below to jot down things that apply to you personally. You do not need to fill in all the spaces at once. Make little diary entries as these tests of leadership come into focus in your life.

THE RESPONSIBILITY OF LEADERSHIP:

1. TO SERVE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. TO DISCIPLINE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

3. TO GUIDE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

4. TO INITIATE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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THE COSTS OF LEADERSHIP:

1. SELF-SACRIFICE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. LONELINESS: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

3. FATIGUE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

4. CRITICISM: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. REJECTION: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

6. PRESSURE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

7. COST TO OTHERS: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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THREATS TO LEADERSHIP:

1. BIG-HEADEDNESS: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. JEALOUSY OF OTHERS: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

3. THINKING YOU ARE ALWAYS RIGHT: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

4. THINKING NO ONE CAN TAKE YOUR PLACE: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. GETTING TOO "HIGH" OR TOO "LOW": ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

6. MORAL DISQUALIFICATION: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

7. LOSING FAITH & VISION: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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Rules for Leaders The Life of Robert E. Speer records the rules by which Archbishop Benson, a man carrying heavy responsibilities, conducted his life. Although he belonged to a different time in history, many of his rules are still challenging and worthwhile.

1. Not to be slow in starting the day's main work.

2. Not to grumble about the amount of work or the shortness of time, but to buy up the time all around.

3. Not to groan when letters are brought in; not even a murmur.

4. Not to exaggerate duties by seeming to suffer under them, but to treat all as liberties and gladness.

5. Not to call attention to crowded work or trivial experiences.

6. Before criticizing anyone, obtain from God a real love for him. Be sure that you know and allow all allowances that can be made.

7. How well it makes for peace to be silent about others, not to believe everything without checking, and not to go around telling things easily.

8. Not to seek praise, gratitude, respect, or regard.

9. Not to feel bad when your advice or opinion is not asked, or is set aside.

10. Never to let yourself be placed in favorable contrast with another.

11. Not to hunger for conversation to turn on yourself.

12. To seek no favor, no compassion; to deserve, not ask for, tenderness.

13. To bear blame rather than share or transmit it.

14. When credit for your own design or execution is given to another, not to be disturbed, but to give thanks.


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Free Space Area: For Leadership Brainstorming ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

Eight Good Ways To Use This Page: 1. To note a question you wish to ask about leadership. 2. To record the title of a book recommended to you. 3. To capture the "most quotable quotes" you hear. 4. To practice your penmanship. 5. To see if you can spell "diakonos" without looking. 6. To write your mother. 7. To make a start on the Great Christian Novel. 8. To outline 8 better ways to use this page.


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Section D – Bible Leaders Christ, the Servant King

Isaiah 42:1-5 is a "Messianic" passage. That means that, hundred of years before His birth, it describes the Lord Jesus . In these verses, Jesus shows us what servanthood really means. He is the ideal Servant of the Lord. His life shows us how we should live as servant/leaders. Here are some of the characteristics of Jesus which Isaiah describes:

1. DEPENDENT: "Behold My Servant whom I uphold." (v. 1) Jesus willingly "made Himself of no reputation" (Philippians 2:7), surrendering His privileges. Though He possessed all the powers of God, He did not use His powers to help or save Himself. Though He upheld "all things by the word of His power" (Hebrews 1:3), as a man He relied completely on His Father and was obedient to the Father's will.

2. APPROVED: "My chosen one in whom MY soul delights." (v. 1) God the Father could smile upon every thought, word and action of His Son. The Son says, "I delight to do Thy will, O my God." (Psalm 40:8).

3. HUMBLE: "He will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the street." (v. 2) The devil tried to tempt Jesus to draw attention to Himself by making a miraculous leap from the top ledge of the Temple. But Jesus completely rejected the tempter's trick.

4. SYMPATHETIC: "A bruised reed He will not break, and a dimly burning wick He will not extinguish (quench)." (v. 3) Sometimes a shepherd, carving a flute from a reed plant, would find a bruise in the reed that ruined his carving. In frustration, he might snap the reed in half. Jesus heals our bruises. He does not toss us away because we have blemishes. If a lamp's wick was dirty or too short, it would start to smoke and give off a poor flame. When that happened it would be snuffed out and replaced. Jesus does not give up on us when our light burns low. Peter's "wick" burned very dimly in the judgment hall where they took Jesus, but what an amazing flame blazed on the day of Pentecost! In between those two times Jesus met him on the beach and challenged him to look at his love for Christ. Peter's interview with God's ideal Servant set him on fire again.

5. COURAGEOUS: "He will not be disheartened or crushed, until He has established justice in the earth." (v. 4) God's Servant would not be discouraged. Fear does not produce an inspiring leader. We need to remember that God does not give us "the spirit of fear" (I Timothy 1:7). Fear is the opposite of faith.

6. ANOINTED: "I have put My Spirit upon Him." (v.1) "You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went about doing good." (Acts 10:38) The Spirit anointing that God's ideal Servant received is available for us.


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Christ, the Leader Dr. Gangel describes these 4 features of the leadership of Christ:

1. The leadership of our Lord focused on individuals. His personal conversation with Peter, recorded in John 21, is a good example of the way He gave Himself to His men in an attempt to build His life and ministry into them.

2. The leadership of our Lord focused on the Scriptures. His treatment of God's absolute truth

was not watered down. He held the Old Testament in highest esteem. The rabbis had twisted God's revelation, and the Leader of leaders now came to say, "but I say to you" (Matthew 5:21-48).

3. The leadership our Lord focused on Himself. Remember, in John 14:9, how He found it

necessary to say to one of the disciples, "Philip, have you been so long time with Me and you still have not known the Father? Take a good look at Me because if you understand Me you understand the Father."

4. The leadership of our Lord focused on purpose. Christ had clear goals for His earthly

ministry, and a limited time in which to achieve them.

Daniel (God is my judge) Of royal or noble descent. The man who kept his window open, whose name can mean: "Who in the name of God does justice." As a youth of the age of about fifteen, Daniel was carried captive into Babylon (Daniel 1:1-4). From then on his whole life was spent in exile. We have to be impressed with his "class", his discipline and the noble way he lived. "Daniel was one that kept his station in the greatest of revolutions, reconciling politics and religion, business and devotion, magnanimity with humility, charity with affability, conversation with retirement, Heaven and the Court, the favor of God and of the King". The first six chapters of Daniel speak of him as "he"; the last six chapters he speaks mainly for himself as "I".

1. SELF-CONTROL: (Daniel 1:8; 10:3) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. COURAGE: (Daniel 5:22, 23) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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3. INTEGRITY: (Daniel 6:4) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

4. PRAYERFULNESS: (Daniel 2:17, 18: 6:16) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. HUMILITY: (Daniel 10:17) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

6. SPIRITUAL VISION: (Daniel 7:9,12; 10:5,6) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

David (Beloved of God, chieftain) Song of Solomon 5:10; Matthew 1:1; Revelation 22:16; Jeremiah 23:5; Ezekiel 37:24; Isaiah 9:7

1. CROOK: (I Samuel 16:11) _____________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. HORN OF OIL: (I Samuel 16:13) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

3. HARP: (I Samuel 16:23) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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4. SLING: (I Samuel 17:40) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. JAVELIN: (I Samuel 18:10-11) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

6. CAVE: (I Samuel 22:1) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

7. CLOAK: (I Samuel 24:11) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

8. THRONE: (II Samuel 5:3-4) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

9. TABLE: (II Samuel 9:11) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

10. LAMB: (II Samuel 12:4) ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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Elijah (God is Jehovah, God Himself)

1. Elijah was a great leader, but one who had his human weaknesses. He was: a) A fearless, bold reformer. (I Kings 18:17-46)

b) A man who rebuked kings (I Kings 21:20; II Kings 1:16)

c) A prayer warrior (I Kings 17:20,22; 18:36-38; James 5:17)

d) A man who got discouraged. (I Kings 19:4)

e) A man who could make a wrong judgment. ( I Kings 19:4, 18)

f) A prophet honored by God. (II Kings 2:11; Matthew 17:3)

g) A performer of miracles. (I Kings 19:8)

h) A servant/leader who obeyed/trusted God. (I Kings 17:1; 21:9 24; II Kings 1:2-17)

i) A saint whose death was glorious. (II Kings 2:1)

2. Elijah's life in I & II Kings can be divided into five PLACES:

a) BEFORE Ahab (I Kings 17:1) When God commands us to speak, no fear of danger should keep us quiet.

b) BY Cherith (I Kings 17:2-7). Faith moves on, trusting that when the first step is taken,

the next will be revealed.

c) AT Zarephath (I Kings 17:10, 24). Elijah was fed by miracle three times: by ravens (I Kings 17:6); by a widow (I Kings 17:9); by an angel (I Kings 19:5-8).

d) ON Carmel (I Kings 18). Here we see the power of a fully surrendered man.

e) IN the Wilderness (I Kings 19). The discouraged prophet had a letdown in his

confidence, but was quickly restored.

3. Elijah can be compared to John the Baptist, who came in Elijah's spirit and power. a) They both knew what it was like to live in deserts and solitude. b) They both had unusual clothing and behavior. c) They both attacked evil strongly. d) They were both faithful in calling people to repentance. e) They were both exposed to the anger of a wicked king. f) They both had disciples who carried on their work. g) They both turned men around for God.

"Many of the children of Israel did they turn to the Lord their God."


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Elisha (God is Savior) Elijah's name means Jehovah my God and suggests the Law, while Elisha's name speaks of Grace, Jehovah my Savior.

1. A man of faith 1 Kings 19;20,21; II Kings 1-18) 2. A man of quick action (2 Kings 2:12-18) 3. A man of spiritual power (2 Kings 2:19-22) 4. A man of unshakeable courage (2 Kings 3) 5. A man of deep sympathy (2 Kings 4:1-7) 6. A man of God (2 Kings 4:8-37) 7. A man of willing help (2 Kings 4:38-41) 8. A man who received blessing (2 Kings 4:42-44) 9. A man of clear understanding (2 Kings 5:1-19) 10. A man of power and strength (2 Kings 6:1-7) 11. A man of remarkable foresight (2 Kings 6:24: 7) 12. A man of good counsel (2 Kings 8:1-6) 13. A man of tears and sorrow (2 Kings 8:7-15)

On the whole, Elijah’s work was destructive; he was the prophet of fire. Elisha's task was more to give mercy and help. He doubled the power of Elijah (II Kings 2:8,9,15), and therefore performed twice as many miracles. The following descriptions show the contrasts between these two prophets:

1. Elijah was a prophet of the wilderness;

Elisha was a prince of the court. 2. Elijah had no settled home;

Elisha enjoyed the peace of a home. 3. Elijah wore long-hair and a shaggy mantle;

Elisha had a bald head and carried a staff. 4. Elijah was mainly prophetical;

Elisha's work was mainly miraculous. 5. Elijah's job was to criticize sternly;

Elisha's task was to teach and win. 6. Elijah was a rebuker of kings;

Elisha was a friend and admirer. 7. Elijah was a messenger of vengeance;

Elisha was a messenger of mercy. 8. Elijah was fierce, fiery, energetic;

Elisha was gentle, sympathetic, simple. 9. Elijah was a solitary figure;

Elisha was more social. 10. Elijah had an unusual disappearance;

Elisha's death was ordinary.


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Ezekiel (God is strong, the man God strengthens) The fourth of the Greater Prophets. Referring to himself as "a priest", Ezekiel was like Jeremiah who was also a prophet and a priest. Ezekiel's call came in his thirtieth year. The keynote of his book is: through tribulation into rest. Ezekiel was happy in his home life (Ezekiel 8;1). God, however, revealed to him that the desire of his eyes would die of a sudden sickness, and his wife did die during the siege of Jerusalem. Although her death was a heavy blow, Ezekiel was not allowed to publicly weep or mourn her passing. His sorrow was to serve as a sign that Jerusalem would be destroyed without weeping or public sadness (Ezekiel 24:15-27). After his ministry as a prophet lasting for at least twenty-two years, history says that Ezekiel was put to death by his fellow exiles because of his faithfulness and boldness in criticizing them for their idolatry.

1. a) He was an exile (Ezekiel 1:1). ______________________________________________________________________________

b) So are we (Hebrews 11:13; I Peter 2:11.). ______________________________________________________________________________

2. a) He was an ambassador (Ezekiel 1:1; 2:1-6; 3:1-3). ______________________________________________________________________________

b) So are we (Ephesians 6:20). ______________________________________________________________________________

3. a) He was a watchman (Ezekiel 3:17-20). ______________________________________________________________________________ b) So are we (Hebrews 13:17). ______________________________________________________________________________

4) a) He was a sign (Ezekiel 12:1-7). ______________________________________________________________________________ b) So are we (I Timothy 1:10). ______________________________________________________________________________


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Joshua (Jehovah is salvation) The son of Nun, successor of Moses and author of the Book bearing his name. The man who was a Soldier-Saint.

1. As a Son. Joshua was the son of Nun, a name meaning "prosperity, durable". ______________________________________________________________________________

2. As a Slave. ______________________________________________________________________________

3. As a Soldier. ______________________________________________________________________________

4. As a Servant. ______________________________________________________________________________

5. As a Spy. ______________________________________________________________________________ Along with Caleb, Joshua brought back a faithful report of the land, which the people rejected, and therefore wandered for forty years in the wilderness. But Joshua profited by such an experience. (Joshua 2:1,2).

6. As a Savior. ______________________________________________________________________________

7. As a Statesman. ______________________________________________________________________________

8. As a Saint. ______________________________________________________________________________ He was filled with the Spirit of God. (Deuteronomy 34:9). He enjoyed the presence of God (Joshua 1:5; 6:27). He was indwelt by the Word of God (Joshua 1:8). He was ever obedient to the will of God (Numbers 32:12, Joshua 5:14).


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Moses (Drawn forth, taken out of the water, a son) Of the family of Kohath (Exodus 2:10-21; Acts 7:20-38; Hebrews 11:24,25). Historian, orator, leader, statesman, legislator, patriot, "the friend of God". David Livingstone's favorite Bible hero. Moses lived for 120 years, a period divided into three sections of forty years each.

1. The first 40 years, from birth till the flight into Midian. Pharaoh's son, Moses, learned how to be Somebody.

2. The second 40 years, from the flight into Midian to the Exodus.

In desert places he learned how to become a Nobody.

3. The third 40 years, from the Exodus to his own "exodus". As the leader of God's hosts he learned that God was everybody.

Moses supplies us with a picture of Christ:

1. Both were saved from the dangers of infancy. (Exodus 2:2-10 with Matt. 2:14.15)

2. Both were tempted but had mastery over evil. (Exodus 7:11 with Matthew 4:1)

3. Both knew what it was to fast for forty days. (Exodus 34:28 with Matthew 4:2)

4. Both had power to control the sea. (Exodus 14:21 with Matthew 8:26)

5. Both fed a multitude. (Exodus 16:26 with Matthew 14:20,21)

6. Both had a radiant face. (Exodus 34:35 with Matthew 17:2)

7. Both endured murmurings. (Exodus 15:24 with Mark 7:Z)

8. Both were discredited at home. (Numbers 12:1 with John 7:5)

9. Both were mighty intercessors. (Exodus 32:32 with John 17)

10. Both spoke as the oracles of God. (Deuteronomy 18:18 with John 7:46).

11. Both had seventy helpers. (Numbers 11:16,17 with Luke 10:1)

12. Both established memorials. (Exodus 12:14 with Luke 22:19)

13. Both reappeared after death. (Matthew 17:3 with Acts 1:3) Moses gave us the first five books of the Old Testament, known as The Pentateuch. When Jesus said, "Moses wrote of Me," He set His seal to the Mosaic authorship of these books. Moses died in the plains of Moab. At the ripe age of 120 years, while yet "his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated," God called His faithful servant to climb Nebo's lonely mountain, where he was kissed to sleep by the angels and God buried him, the only man in the Bible to have God as his undertaker (Deuteronomy 34:6).


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Hebrews 11 gives a strong description of the outstanding leadership qualities that Moses possessed.

1. FAITH (v. 24) "By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter." ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

2. INTEGRITY (v. 25) "Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

3. VISION (v. 26) "Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasure in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward." ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

4. DECISIVENESS (v. 27) "By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king, for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible." ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

5. OBEDIENCE (v. 28) "Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them." ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

6. SUCCESSFULNESS (v. 29) "By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned." ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________


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Nehemiah

1. HIS CHARACTER a) He was a man of prayer (Nehemiah 1:4,6; 2:4; 4:4,9; 5:19; 6:14; 13:14,22,29).

b) He displayed courage in the face of great danger (6:11).

c) He showed1 genuine concern for the welfare of the people (2:10; 1:4-6).

d) He showed keen foresight (2:8).

e) There was clearness and caution in Nehemiah's bold activities (2:11).

f) He possessed the quality of sympathy to an unusual degree. (4:10-12; 5:1-5).

g) His spiritual approach to problems did not leave out a realistic look at facts (4:9).

h) In accepting responsibility, he was ready to take difficult assignments right through.

2. HIS METHODS i) He raised the courage and spirit of his people (2:20; 8:10).

j) He was generous in appreciation and encouragement (2:18).

k) He dealt promptly with potential causes of weakness. Two typical cases are given:

i. .The people were discouraged through weariness and obstruction (4:10-16).

ii. The people were frustrated by greed and heartlessness on the part of their rich brethren (5:1-5; 5:7,11, 12,14).

l) He restored the authority of the God's Word (8:1-8; 9:3-5; 13:4-9,15; 13:23-25,30).

m) He was skillful in organization (2:11-16; 7:2).

n) His leadership was demonstrated in his attitude to organized opposition:

i. His first solution was prayer (4:9).

ii. When it was safe to do so, he simply ignored the adversaries.

iii. At the same time he took all necessary precautions (4:16).

iv. He had unwavering faith in God (4:20).

The record stands: "So the wall was completed." (6:15)


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Paul

Paul's Leadership in Acts 27 1. Respected and trusted. (27:3) ______________________________________________________________________________ 2. Takes the initiative. (27:9-10) ______________________________________________________________________________ 3. Executes good judgment. ______________________________________________________________________________ 4. Speaks with authority. (27:21) ______________________________________________________________________________ 5. Strengthens others. (27:25) ______________________________________________________________________________ 6. Optimistic and enthusiastic. (27:25) ______________________________________________________________________________ 7. Does not compromise his position. (27:31) ______________________________________________________________________________ 8. Focuses on objectives, not obstacles. (27:34) ______________________________________________________________________________ 9. Leads by example. (27:35) ______________________________________________________________________________ 10. Activates people. (27:36-38) ______________________________________________________________________________ 11. Succeeds. (27:39-44) ______________________________________________________________________________


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Samson (Distinguished, strong, sun-man) One of the most famous of the Hebrew judges, he killed a lion, thirty Philistines and one thousand men, carried off the gates of Gaza and pulled down the Temple of Dagon (Judges 13:24 - 1:30). He is found in Faith's Hall of Fame (Hebrews 11:32). As long as Samson remained a Nazarite he was unconquerable. The story of Samson teaches us the danger and evil of mixing believers and unbelievers (His marriage - Judges 14:3) and of playing with temptation. The deadly results after he broke his Nazarite vow appear below:

1. Self-confidence: "I will go out." (Judges 16:20)

2. Self-ignorance: "He (knew) not." (Judges 16:20)

3. Self-weakness: "The Philistines laid hold on him." (Judges 16:21)

4. Self-darkness: "They put out his eyes." (Judges 16:21)

5. Self-degradation: "They brought him down to Gaza." (Judges 16:1-3,21)

6. Self-bondage: "They bound him with fetters." (Judges 16:21)

7. Self-drudgery: "He did grind in the prison-house." (Judges 16:21)

8. Self-humiliation: "Call for Samson, that he may make us sport." (Judges 16:25,27)

Samson stands out as a man of strong contrasts. He had a kind of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde personality.

1. He was separated as a Nazarite (Judges 13:5), yet dabbled with evil associations (Judges 14:1-3).

2. He was occasionally Spirit-possessed (Judges 13:25; 15:14), yet gave in to physical

temptations (Judges 16:1-4).

3. He appeared childish in some of his plans (Judges 15:4), yet was courageous in battle (Judges 15:1-4).

4. He was mighty in physical strength (Judges 16:3,9,13,14), yet weak in resisting temptation

(Judges 16:15-16).

5. He had a noble beginning but a sad ending (Judges 16:30).


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Section E – Snapshots of Bible Leaders

Abraham He was called the Friend of God: he was our first clear vision of the Father. With him religion advanced, and the worship of one God began. The very air he breathed was filled with faith. By faith, at God's command, he led the way through the wilderness, confident that God was to make him the father of a great new nation. By faith he lifted his knife to slay his son; God accepted his obedience and stopped the hand before it struck. Faith made him the pioneer of civilization, the founder of an empire for God and righteousness. Courageous, generous, meek, patient, and sensible, he is the worthy father of Israel, a man of destiny plotting a great destiny for a great people. (Genesis 11:27-25:11; II Chronicles 20:7; James 2:23)

Andrew "And He appointed twelve." That great company of Apostles. The Twelve whose ministry still lives on. The first appointed was Andrew, who had heard John the Baptist preach. He was the first missionary of the kingdom of Heaven, the first "personal worker" for Christ. Andrew was forever bringing someone. He brought, first, his own brother. That can be tough. It is easier to preach to strangers than to your own family. Andrew brought Peter to Jesus, and stepped humbly aside as Peter rose to second-in-command. He brought a little lad to Jesus, a lad with two fishes and five loaves, a lad with resources. "There is a lad here," he said to Christ. Moody was discovered in a shoe shop; Billy Sunday on a baseball diamond; Livingstone at a spinning jenny. Lads with resources. Someone found them there; some Andrew said, "There is a lad here..." Certain Greeks came, perplexed, investigating, asking, "Sir, we would see Jesus." Andrew led them in. The first Apostle to the Gentiles. No miracles. No powerful sermons. But we need people like him today. A sick world is crying, "Sir, we would see Jesus." And a confused, questioning youth awaits an "introducer", saying, "There is a lad here." (Mark 3:14; John 1:40 ff; 6:8; 12:20 ff)


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Daniel The lion's roaring should not distract us from the voice of this prophet; their yawning jaws should not take our eyes from Daniel. Though surrounded by lions and captured in Babylon, Daniel s spirit was captive to no man. With courage he faced the beasts; with courage he also turned his face from king to God in pagan Babylon. With wisdom, he rose high at Nebuchadnezzar's Court, interpreting his dreams and visions; with wisdom also he lifted the hearts of Israel to honor the heroism of the past and plot the heroism of tomorrow. With faith he worshipped God in his own room; with faith, he kept preaching to all of the final triumph of the Kingdom of God. Daniel the Daring. He snatched hope from the lion-jaws. (Daniel 2:17 ff; 5:13 ff; 6:10 ff; 7:13 ff; 12:2 f)

David Many men do one thing well and call it enough. David did many things well but died in grief. He was many-sided David, the living example of his nation's many sides, showing her qualities, her spirit, and her destiny. Dedication to God ran through him like a vein of gold. Human fellowship was seen at its best in his deep friendship with Jonathan, and forgiveness was large for his enemies like Saul. Yet, he was a sinner, an adulterer, and murderer. He was a mighty warrior, building a kingdom by the sword. He made Jerusalem a capital, making it "The City of David". His was a strong arm. It brought peace. He was a great king-administrator, ruling through love, with priests, scribes, and elders. He knew how to wear the purple, and hold the scepter. He was poet and musician, the "sweet singer of Israel", father of musicians and poets. Read his Psalms. They glow like living coals. His great career knew sin and fault and cruelty, but God so loved him that He built him a house, and gave the Messiah through his family. (I Samuel 18:1; II Samuel 2:12).


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Elijah Huge and shaggy, stout-hearted, thunder-voiced. Lone wolf of the Lord. Israel's great son - Elijah the Tishbite. He came from nowhere, long hair down his back, belt of skin around his middle, to make Ahab face judgment, to prophesy a three-year drought. Then he hid from the enraged king (and queen) near the brook Cherith, where ravens fed him. He leaped from hiding again to challenge the priests of Baal to a test of fire on Carmel, to win it, to slay them and to hide once more. Jezebel thought he was dead, but he returned to prophesy her death. When she and Ahab were gone, he rebuked their son and predicted his death; he did the same for wicked Jehoram. Then he left the earth. Casting his mantle to Elisha, he went up into heaven in a chariot of flame. He left as he had come, as he had lived, in a whirlwind of heavenly fire. He came back, at the transfiguration of our Lord (Matthew 17:3). He stood alone. He outwitted Jezebel and her priests. He destroyed Baal-worship, punished the evil kings who introduced it and made Israel cry again, "Jehovah, He is God!" (I Kings 17:1-19:21; 21:17 ff: II Kings 1:1 ff; II Kings 1:11 ff; II Chronicles 21:11 ff).

Elisha Elijah saw him plowing in a field, and called him. He left his home and friends to be the Tishbite's companion, pupil, and successor. The two men were almost opposite. Elisha was a city man, with a house in Samaria. He was well groomed and mannered, more of a teacher and preacher than a prophet. He was the honored mouthpiece of the Almighty at the courts of six kings. Three called him friend; to them he was worth more than a thousand generals. Miracles without number are credited to him. He purified pottage and water and multiplied loaves; he caused an iron ax to swim; he cured Naaman of leprosy and put it as a curse upon Gehazi; he brought a dead boy back to life; even in the tomb his bones restored the dead. But the miracles were the least of his spiritual works. He showed, more than Elijah, the spirit of Jesus Christ. Elijah was wrapped in a tempest, Elisha in an atmosphere of deep spiritual truth. He was God's lighthouse, steady and bright against a carefree Court. In the darkest days, when doom was certain, he was still a witness for truth and righteousness. (I Kings 19:19 ff; II Kings 2:12-13:21).


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Gideon Gideon was a young man who tore down altars, even though he was "least in (his) father's house". He was destined to be a national hero, prophet, warrior, and judge. He won by using surprise. He won his greatest battle with an army of three hundred (picked from out of ten thousand) armed each with a trumpet, a lamp, and an earthenware jar. He fought long and gloriously for Israel. He knew God's voice when he heard it. But he fell short of the heroism model of Moses and Joshua. He was cautious. His faith depended on facts and figures. Question marks occurred as often in his story as exclamation marks. He refused to be a king: "Only God is your King," he said to Israel. That was an exclamation mark. But he needed his faith strengthened twice by a fleece. Those were examples of Gideon's question marks. (Judges 6:11 - 8:32).

John the Baptist He was the morning star of the Kingdom of God. Like Elijah, like Amos, he was raised in Tekoa. He came out of the desert preaching wildly, as if he were on fire. "Prepare ye, repent ye ... the Kingdom of God is at hand." A voice crying in the wilderness, clearing the way for the Lord Jesus Christ. John baptized in the Jordan, using water to signal repentance for sin. One would soon come to baptize them with the Holy Ghost instead of water. The One came to John the Baptist to be baptized: "Behold," cried John, "the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." The child of Mary and the child of Elizabeth, knee deep in Jordan, together. Then John vanished. Later, held in Herod's dungeon, doubt slipped a chain on his soul. He asked of Jesus, "Art thou He that should come, or ..." But when he heard of the work of Jesus, he was the powerful preacher again. He was glad to die. Salome sent a large platter ... the executioner came through the dungeon door ... and the morning star faded brilliantly into the sunshine. (Matthew 3:1 ff, 13 ff; 11:2 ff; Mark 6:14 ff; John 1:29).


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Jonah He lay three days and nights in the belly of a whale. Jonah's fish is more bothersome to some people than Daniel's lions, causing them to criticize the story as a fairy tale. So they miss Jonah's message. The fish is not the story; just part of the story. He was the son of Amittai, born at Gath-hepher (an hour's walk from Nazareth), sent by God to preach in Nineveh. He rebelled. He ran, westward, away. He ran into a storm; the sailors threw him overboard; the great fish came. Then Jonah went on to Nineveh and preached so convincingly that the whole city put on sackcloth and repented. Men argue like children over the dimensions of the stomach of the fish, or over who wrote Jonah's Book. Why? Because the teaching of Jonah is so painfully clear: No man can find a hideaway from conscience, nor from God. No nation, knowing God, dare keep Him to themselves. Nineveh must know God too; the heathen heart is as able to find God. God was rebuking the unmerciful heart of Jonah. Those who know must preach. There is a teaching, evangelizing obligation - the missionary obligation. (II Kings 14:25; Jonah 1:1 ff; 3:1 ff).

Joseph You were the noblest man in Genesis, Joseph, the most fortunate and most faultless. This was not a gift. It developed. You were a spoiled boy once, the pet of your father, proud, dreamy, pushy. Your pride made your brother furious. They sold you as a slave just to get rid of you. You were better in Egypt, when you resisted the temptations of your master's wife and went to prison for it. Prison didn't break you; it gave you the strength of iron. You were comforter to your chained companions, interpreter of their dreams. It was a good day when Pharaoh let you out of your cell to interpret his dream, a better day still when your interpretation proved true. How Pharaoh must have loved you to make you his prime minister. A lowly Hebrew slave boy, ruling Egypt. What a noble you were when your brothers, driven by the whips of famine, stood before you. Your forgiveness was like Christ's. Your love passed understanding. You were a brilliant, kind ruler. Success failed to spoil you. You prove to us that a good man, wherever he goes, cannot put himself beyond God's care. (Genesis 30:24; 37:2 ff; 39:47).


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Joshua Behold an officer and a gentleman. Egypt gave him birth. Fighting in Canaan made him a veteran soldier. Moses, dying, named him his successor. A good choice. Joshua was one of the twelve spies to go first into Canaan, one of two to tell the truth of what he saw. At Rephidim he proved himself, replying to Amalek's every attack, while Moses prayed on a hill. He earned his stripes at Jericho, where he drove a wedge of spears deep into the enemy land. Gibeon and Ai clinched his fame. He never was much more than a loyal soldier, an under-officer of Jehovah. When the wars were done we hear little more of him, except that he divided the land and preached two good sermons. Read them if you are sermon-weary. They sparkle. He gained a country, then united a people to hold it. He was fearless in battle, sharp as a fox in strategy, a wise counselor and a whole-hearted servant of his people and his God. A Babe born in a manger was given his name: "Jesus" is Greek for "Joshua". (Exodus 17:8 ff; Numbers 13:8; 14:6; Deuteronomy 1:37; Joshua 5:13 ff; 8:1 ff; 9:3 ff; 23:24).

Moses Leadership rests on his mighty head like the clouds did on Sinai. He was a noble peak among men. A great ambassador for God. His youth he spent in Egypt, preparing. Oriental wise men taught him all they knew. He was their honor-roll student. At forty, he was a murderer, hiding in Midian. Royalty turned into rags. He meditated, alone, in desert places. He brooded. A smoldering love for his people in Egypt burned within him; a bush went ablaze before his eyes. God spoke: "Back to Egypt, Moses. Bring Israel out." "Let my people go," he cried to Pharaoh as he led them through the Red Sea. For forty years they followed him through the wilderness. He fought back enemy raiders, put down arguing in his ranks. He gave the Jews unity and law, and pointed them back to faith, worship and God. He was a deliverer, conqueror, lawgiver, prophet. He made a nation out of a group of captives. Death took him, dramatically, at the very gates of Canaan, the Promised Land. (Exodus 2:11 ff; 5:1; Deuteronomy 34:5).


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Nehemiah Great crises make great men. The crisis of the Restoration produced Nehemiah. Mark him well if you are interested in heroes. Mark him as he wept at midnight, watching over fallen Jerusalem; mark him as he raged, spear in one hand, trowel in the other, in a strong man's fury to rebuild the city wall, a dynamo of action, a man of prayer and an engineer. In fifty-two days the wall was done, the gates were hung, and Nehemiah went back to Babylon. Returning, he found a stable to be cleaned. The sabbath was being dishonored; the priests and Levites were without support; mixed marriages were popular. Nehemiah went into action again. He was strong, tireless, determined. Of one evil-doer he said, "I chased him from me." Others he cursed, or struck, or pulled out their hair. Nehemiah did for politics what Ezra later did for religion. He was more emotional and patriotic, and therefore probably more beloved than Ezra. He had the irresistible combination of cool brain and hot heart. He gave unsparingly of both for the happiness of his people and the preservation of their faith. (Nehemiah 1:4 ff; 4:6,15 ff; 6:15; 13:6 ff; 28).

Noah The grandson of Methuselah was the second Father of Mankind. Noah's life was in three parts. His first five centuries are a total blank. He was growing in body, mind and soul. At five hundred, three sons came, Shem, Ham and Japheth, to live surrounded by evil men and fallen angels, creatures who were defiant, and strong. "There were giants in the earth in those days." Among them Noah, like Enoch, moved with the Almighty, and Peter calls him "a preacher of righteousness." When Jehovah determined to destroy the evil of the world, he set this righteous man to building his ark. In went the animals, two by two. When Noah was six hundred years old, the Flood came. When it was over, he led his family ashore, built an altar and offered the first burnt sacrifice. He lived, after the Flood, three hundred fifty years. Even if you forget the ark and the animals, remember that righteousness delivers men and nations, that God is One, that sin pays off, in death. (Genesis 5:32 - 9:29).


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Paul From Italy to Syria he blazed the trail for Christ. In Macedonia, Thrace, Greece, Asia Minor, Galatia, and Pisidia; in Bithynia, Pontus, Cappadocia, Cilicia, Syria Cyprus, and Idumea he threw open to the Gentiles the doors of the Christian Church and invited them to "Come in." Along that trail this great Missionary was whipped, stoned, starved, shipwrecked, half drowned, and finally beheaded. None of these things could clip his wings; his life, he knew, was safe; union with Christ was his security. His letters now are Bible Books, full of great teaching, the framework of church doctrine. Self-sacrifice was his life's law. Calvary was his passion. Paul taught principles rather than rules. He was as courageous as he was faithful, as strong against criticism as he was stubborn for righteousness. He is one of truth's great heroes, the New Testament's Moses, in the gallery of the soldiers of the Cross. (I Corinthians 15:10; Romans 1:16; II Corinthians 11:23 ff; Galatians 6:14; Philippians 1:21; II Timothy 4:7 f).

Peter Peter's soul was a rushing tide; sometimes high, stormy, crashing like the waves on Galilee; sometimes low, retreating, caught in the backwash of doubt, washed out on the shores of fear. He rocked like a skyscraper in a gale; skyscraper-like, too, he pointed heavenward, and came back to his solid foundation when the storm had passed. He was rooted deep in the rock, Jesus Christ. He forsook all to follow Christ; he leaped into the sea, tried walking on deep waters in a tempest at Christ's call; yet the day after Calvary he returned to his nets. He wanted to die for Christ, but a servant-girl laughed and he changed his mind. Looking at the circumstances, he was weak; but when he was in the grip of his Master's call he cried, "Thou art the Christ!" The Spirit won him at last. The salty, fighting hands of the fisherman became the healing hands of the saint. Peter was perhaps the most inconsistent of the Twelve but valued by Christ; a diamond in the rough, with great polishing possibilities. He was transformed. He developed. (Matthew 14:28 ff; 16:16 ff; Mark 14:66 ff; Luke 5:11; John 13:37, 21:3).


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Philip Philip may seem to be a non-leader. He was Philip the Plodder, a slow, matter-of-fact person. He never seemed to know his Lord fully; in the middle of that breathless sermon in the 14th of John, he blurted out: "Lord, show us the Father!" He never fully felt the greatness of Jesus' power. When the five thousand waited to be fed, he thought not of Christ's power, but of the missing food supply: "Two hundred-pennyworth of bread is not sufficient ..." When the Greeks came seeking Jesus, Philip could not think what to do. Should foreigners be led to Jesus Christ? He turned them over to Andrew. He probably never would testify in prayer-meeting, were he here now, nor lead a great revival. But he would be one of those gallant plodders who are always on hand to set up tables for a church supper, or act as substitute teacher in the Sunday School, or bring another Nathaniel in. Historically, he plodded on faithfully, teaching, preaching', to a martyr's grave in Hierapolis. (John 1:44 ff; 12:21 ff; 14:8).

Samson Samson is the Bible's Hercules. He killed a lion with his bare hands; slaughtered a thousand Philistines with the jawbone of an ass; caught three hundred foxes, tied their tails together, set them loose in the Philistines' corn. He tore off the great city gates of Gaza. Fighting was his joy. The trouble was that it was all muscle-fighting. He didn't use his brain. He had a giant body and a pygmy mind. Unbeatable physically, he was worse than a baby in the hands of a pretty woman. Still, there were great things to admire in him. He stood and fought when even mighty Judah's tribe ran from the field. He worshipped God, while they deserted to idols. In the midst of a broken nation, he was a fighting, solitary, defiant soul. (Judges 13:24; 14:1; 16:31).


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Samuel "Samuel, Samuel," called the Lord. Israel's boy of the hour, her man of destiny, was being summoned. In some ways he was greater than Moses. The deliverer created a nation. Samuel restored them, rebuilt them when they lay in ruins. With Hannah's spirit and Eli's teaching, "Samuel grew, and Jehovah was with him." Eli died, and the reins were his. He was everywhere, praying, exhorting, calling his people back to the faith of their fathers, rekindling the flame of religious life. New energy and strength possessed them; they fell on the Philistines and crushed them. Though Saul was king, Samuel was the power behind the throne. He started a "School of Prophets," and headed, himself, that line of prophets who were to be the national conscience to keep the kings in line and the people true to Jehovah. King-maker, rebuilder, Samuel. (I Samuel 3:10 ff; 7:3 ff; 10:17 ff; 19:19).

Silas "Substitutes are never just as good." Oh yes they can be. Sometimes even better than the originals. The "regulars" may be the first to go to war, but it often takes the raw volunteer to win it. Silas was a substitute. He volunteered to go with Paul when Barnabas broke ranks. Paul knew him well and quickly accepted him. Bold, liberal, a standout Jewish Christian and Roman citizen, he was made for the dangers of the road. Off he went, through South Galatia, to Troas, and Philippi, to Thessalonica, Berea, and Corinth. He preached with his mentor Paul in the face of violence and hatred, faced mobs by day and the threat of death by night. They were bound to stakes together and scourged in the marketplace, were chained together in a Philippian jail. The stripes they accepted as God's soldiers. The chains made them so happy that they sang through the prison night. Substitute, was he, or regular? Baring his back to the whip because a friend was baring his, laying down his life for a Friend he had never seen, yet loved. Silas was no second class leader. (Acts 15:22 ff; 16:25 ff; I Thessalonians 1:1; II Corinthians 1:19; 1 Peter 5:12).

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