We decided to feature this listicle by former editor Michael C. Mack this week after noticing a good number of people were viewing the original post from 10 years ago. Michael wrote this for his “Best Practices” feature, which he produced for the magazine prior to his stint as editor (2017–23).
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By Michael C. Mack
August 2014; p. 59
Acts 20 contains 21 character traits of the apostle Paul. Look over this list, and then take time to assess yourself as a leader. Which three to five of these are you doing well? Now, identify three to five traits missing or in short supply with you. Huddle up with a few other leaders and share what you’ve discovered.
Paul’s character traits:
1. Humility (v. 19).
2. Possessing a Servant’s heart (v. 19).
3. Integrity. Never hesitated to preach the Word, no matter what the consequences (v. 20).
4. Committed. Devoted to teaching God’s Word regardless of the venue (v. 20).
5. Not prejudiced. Taught everyone . . . both Jews and Gentiles (v. 21).
6. Compassionate. Had a heart for bringing lost people to Christ (v. 21).
7. Spirit-led. Not led by his own thoughts and plans (v. 22).
8. Fearless. Had total trust in God (v. 22).
9. Spirit-filled. Listened to the internal promptings of the Holy Spirit (v. 23).
10. Faithful. Had a proper perspective on life and death, and he persevered (v. 24).
11. Visionary. Could leave this earth knowing he had done all he could do, with no regrets (v. 26).
12. Passionate. Never held anything back. People received 100 percent of the good news (v. 27).
13. A shepherd. Cared for and invested into people (v. 28). (See their response to him in vv. 37 and 38!)
14. A shepherd developer (v. 28).
15. A realist. Understood the reality of spiritual warfare (v. 30).
16. A warrior. Cared about the church and wanted them to be protected against the evil one (v. 31).
17. Not greedy or even interested in the world’s riches (v. 33).
18. Diligent, not lazy (v. 34).
19. Responsible (v. 34).
20. Giving (v. 35).
21. A pray-er (v. 36).
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