Will the Spiritual Leader Please Stand Up

Well, "I can truly say that I've been blessed, I have a testimony." God really blessed the study/teaching on last evening. I appreciate the fervent effectual prayers of the righteous, they did and do avail much. The Lord allowed us to enter into the first of four "parts" of our study on "Spiritual Leadership." This particular study is based on last nights Introduction from the first chapter and three examinations of chapter three. On last night we considered the fact that everybody is a leader. This is attributed to the fact that we ALL have a sphere of influence with someone. That influence renders us all "leaders." So the question is not will you lead but rather how will you lead. Paul, in approximately 61AD writes to the church at Philippi (in Philippians 2:19-22) that he desires to send Timothy to them in order to provide leadership to the church there. The interesting thing is that he comments "Timothy is the only one that I can send." By approximate estimations, Paul was converted in around 33AD. Additionally, it can be argued that Paul had trained at least 30 to 35 leaders in these 28 years of ministry accounted for. Yet, after 28 years and 30+ disciples, Paul says that Timothy is the "only one" with the right spiritual countenance and attribute to lead this church. Wow... That sets high the spiritual standard for those of us who assume the role of spiritual leader. it also helps to answer the "challenge" of my Pastoral ministry when asked "after 8 years, you don't think anybody has been ready to be appointed as a deacon?" Well, after 28 years, Paul could only find one that he was confident enough to appoint to spiritual leadership. Granted, Timothy would have held the position of "episcopos" or "overseer." But, the principle of Paul to "not lay your hands on a man to quickly" firmly applies. So, there is the responsibility of the Body of Christ to discern those who "make full proof of the ministry" and "stir up the gift" which is within them. So, the game show question is rudimentarily resounded for the rest of my religious ritual "Will the Real Spiritual Leader Please Stand Up?!?!?" Well... I am looking forward to the spiritual fallout and fruit that will be made manifest as a result of this series. I continue to solicit your prayers.