Timothy was a young first-century pastor who was despised by some for his youth and presumed inexperience. But the apostle Paul had no hesitation in supporting him. Age is not the issue when it comes to recognising church leaders – calling and training are. There must be a call from God. If the church is truly a ‘listening’ community walking and talking with Jesus daily, they will have no trouble recognising a person’s call. But if they are committed to doing church their way rather than God’s, their appointments will reflect this and may be a million miles away from God’s plan. Outside of the Spirit’s
direction, human groups tend to appoint in their own image. “Does their face fit?” we hear. “Will they ‘fit in’?” The question should be, “What does the Lord say about this person’s ministry role?” In the book of Acts we see evidence that this was the way early in the history of the church. On one occasion the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." (Acts 13:2). God anoints who He appoints, but the choices of men will always ultimately disappoint.