Jesus' Active Leadership

Keeping in step with Jehovah's progressive organization requires that we recognize the God-assigned role of Jesus Christ as "head of the congregation."  (Ephesians 5:22,23) Noteworthy too, is Isaiah 55:4, where we are told:  "Look! As a witness to the national groups."  Jesus certainly know how to lead.  He also knows his sheep and their deeds. In fact, when he inspected the seven congregations in Asia Minor, five times he said: "I know your deeds."  (Revelation 2:2, 19; 3:1, 8, 15) Jesus also knows our needs, as does his Father, Jehovah.  Before giving the Model Prayer, Jesus stated: "God your Father knows what things you are needing before ever you ask him." -Matthew 6:8-13.

How is Jesus' leadership manifested?  One way is through Christian overseers, the "gifts in men."  (Ephesians 4:8) Revelation 1:6 depicts anointed overseers as being in Christ's right hand, under his control. Today, Jesus directs the arrangement for elders, whether such men have a heavenly or an earthly hope.  As explained int he preceding article, they are appointed by holy spirit in harmony with Scriptural requirements.  (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9)  In the first century, a group of older men in Jerusalem made up a governing body that had oversight of the congregation and of the Kingdom-preaching activity in general.  the same pattern is followed within Jehovah's organization today.

Next time: Keep in Step!

The Watchtower, 2001