CAPACITY BUILDING
Verse (Matthew 13:52, KJV)
"Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old."*
Understanding the Verse in Context
In this passage, Jesus speaks about a trained disciple (a "scribe for the kingdom") who wisely uses both old and new teachings. In capacity-building terms, this verse highlights the importance of learning, growth, and resourcefulness in order to effectively contribute to a greater purpose.
Key Elements Related to Capacity Building
1. "Every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven" → Continuous Learning & Training
- A scribe in Jesus' time was an expert in Scripture and teaching. However, Jesus redefines a true scribe as someone trained in the principles of the Kingdom rather than just religious laws.
Capacity-building insight: Growth requires ongoing education, training, and mentorship. Just as a scribe is trained, leaders and individuals should seek **knowledge and wisdom** to be effective in their fields.
2. "Is like unto a man that is an householder" → Leadership & Stewardship
- The householder (or homeowner) is responsible for managing resources and ensuring they are used effectively.
- Capacity-building insight: Effective leadership involves managing knowledge, skills, and resources to empower others. Organizations, communities, and individuals should steward their talents wisely to bring transformation.
3. "Which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old" → Innovation & Tradition
- This phrase means that a wise scribe values both old and new knowledge—the old being foundational truths and the new being fresh insights.
Capacity-building insight: True development does not reject the past but integrates old wisdom with new innovations. Successful leaders and professionals adapt and evolve by learning from history while embracing modern strategies
Practical Application in Capacity Building
1. Education & Skill Development
- Just as a scribe undergoes training, individuals and organizations must invest in continuous learning to stay relevant and effective.
- Capacity-building requires mentorship, coaching, and formal education to develop strong leaders.
2. Effective Leadership & Resource Management
- The householder represents a responsible leader who knows when and how to use available resources.
- Leaders must balance experience (old wisdom) and innovation (new strategies) to navigate challenges.
3. Sustainable Growth & Transformation
- Kingdom-trained disciples build long-term impact by equipping themselves and others with timeless truths and evolving solutions.
- In organizations, capacity-building should include both historical lessons and modern tools (technology, new methodologies, etc.).
Matthew 13:52 teaches that true wisdom comes from a well-rounded foundation of knowledge, the ability to apply that knowledge wisely, and the responsibility to use it to benefit others. In the context of capacity building, this means:
Learning continuously(training and education)
Managing resources wisely(stewardship and leadership)
Blending tradition with innovation(applying past lessons while embracing new approaches)