“'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us.” Matthew 1:23

"Don't Appoint People to Church Leadership Positions Too Hastily,"

1 Timothy 5:22

It's dangerous to promote someone to church leadership simply because they're successful in the secular arena. We must allow time for their character to be seen. If someone is unwilling to wait, or serve in a lower spot, they probably don't have the maturity to handle a higher one. Leaders who follow in the footsteps of the One who "made Himself of no reputation" (Philippians 2:7 NIV), nail their ego to the cross and humbly serve where there's a need. We are in a constant  battle with "the spiritual forces of evil" (Ephesians 6:12 NIV). And how do they come in? Often on two feet, complete with resumes and talents. Paul warn timothy "Don't appoint people to church leadership position hastily", It's a lot easier to get someone on to the board than off it. Meanwhile, God's work can get hurt.

When Philip went to Samaria to preach, the whole city came to Christ. If ever a church needed leadership in a hurry, they did. And that's why when Simon the Sorcerer showed up. Talk about a successful career! "All people, both high and low, gave him their attention" (Acts8:10) And that's not all: "Simon himself believe and was baptized. And he followed Phillip everywhere, astonished by the...miracles he saw" (Acts 8:13 NIV) But then the mask comes off and he offers peter money, saying "Give me this power" (Acts 8:19 NKJV). Wow! The old power play! Peter replied "May your money perish with you...your heart is not right before God. Repent" (Acts 8:20-22 NIV). And Simon did. Be careful who you pick!