Evaluation of Spiritual Leadership in the New Testament: Principles, Practices, and Applications

Spiritual leadership plays a central role in the mission of the church, especially in the context of church planting. The New Testament provides a clear model for identifying and evaluating leaders, emphasizing spiritual, moral, and practical qualities. This article presents an approach to evaluating spiritual leadership based on biblical principles and practical tools developed by networks like ACTS Adventist World. Focusing on six essential areas, this study offers guidelines for selecting church planters and strengthening local leadership.

1. Biblical Foundations of Spiritual Leadership

Leadership in the New Testament is rooted in divine calling and personal transformation. Passages such as 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-4 outline the qualifications required of church leaders, emphasizing:

• Blameless character: A holy and disciplined life.

• Teaching ability: Theological clarity and skill in instructing others.

• Hospitality: A missional and welcoming lifestyle.

• Family management: Leadership that begins in the home.

These criteria serve as a foundation for an evaluation process that balances calling, competence, and ministry context.

2. Key Areas for Evaluation

Evaluating spiritual leadership must be conducted with depth and sensitivity, considering six main areas. These characteristics, highlighted by ACTS Adventist World, provide a comprehensive view of a leader’s profile according to New Testament standards.

2.1 Spiritual Vitality

A leader’s spiritual life must reflect an authentic relationship with God, evidenced by a disciplined walk and victory over personal vices or idols. Evaluative questions include:

• How has God led you into a saving relationship with Jesus?

• What is your regular devotional practice?

• How do you hear from God in your daily life?

  
  

2.2 Theological Clarity

A leader must have a solid understanding of the gospel and biblical doctrine, with the ability to clearly and effectively communicate these truths. Sample questions include:

• What is the gospel, and how has it transformed your life?

• How do you understand the role of the Adventist movement within the larger Christian body?

  
  

2.3 Missional Lifestyle

Hospitality and engagement with people outside the church are hallmarks of a missional leader. Practical questions include:

• How do you and your family intentionally create space to interact with people far from God?

• Who was the last person you shared the gospel with, and how did they respond?

2.4 Marriage and Family Life

Spiritual leadership begins at home. For married candidates, it is crucial to assess how they nurture their spouses and children spiritually. Examples of questions:

• How do you support your spouse’s spiritual growth?

• How do you guide your children toward Jesus?

2.5 Financial Integrity

Personal financial stewardship reflects a commitment to biblical principles. Questions include:

• How do you practice missional use of money, including tithes and offerings?

• What do your spending habits reveal about your spiritual priorities?

2.6 Relationship Building

A leader should be a builder of people and an example of emotional maturity. Evaluative questions:

• Who have you recognized and helped develop in their spiritual gifts?

• How do you handle conflicts and criticism?

3. Practical Evaluation Practices

Interviews with potential candidates should be structured yet flexible to capture deep insights into their character and calling. This process can be conducted in contexts such as:

• Pastoral visits: Opportunities for informal but focused conversations.

• Leadership retreats: Environments for in-depth reflection.

• Specific training sessions: Focused on equipping leaders for church planting.

4. Practical Applications

4.1 Using the Questionnaire

The questionnaire developed by Anthony Wagener-Smith provides a solid foundation for evaluating the six areas of leadership. In addition to qualitative responses, assigning scores (1-10) for each area can help identify strengths and growth opportunities.

4.2 Implementing in Church Planting Projects

Candidates who do not demonstrate the necessary characteristics can be redirected to other ministries before engaging in church planting projects. This protects the mission and increases the likelihood of long-term success.

Conclusion

Evaluating spiritual leadership in the New Testament is not merely about competence but about character and calling. Following biblical principles and using practical tools, as described in this article, allows for the identification of leaders aligned with God’s high calling. In this way, the church advances healthily and faithfully in its mission.

References

1. ACTS Adventist World. Website of the Global Adventist Church Planting Network. Available at: www.alexpalmeira.com

2. Patrick, Darrin. Church Planter: The Man, the Message, the Mission. Wheaton: Crossway, 2010.

3. Schwarz, Richard W., Greenleaf, Floyd. Light Bearers: A History of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Engenheiro Coelho: Unaspress, 2009.

4. Wagener-Smith, Anthony. Spiritual Leadership Evaluation Questionnaire. Andrews University, 2019.

5. White, Ellen G. Evangelism. Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald, 1946.

6. White, Ellen G. Testimonies for Ministers and Gospel Workers. Mountain View: Pacific Press, 1923.