08.01.13 The 7th Key for Evaluating a Prospective Partner's Intellectual Maturity

7. Does the Person Receive Without Abdicating Personal Responsibility?

Observe how the prospective partner responds to advice and correction. Does the person welcome counsel from trusted and wise individuals? Does the individual weigh guidance carefully and then take responsibility for personal decisions; or does she or he resist instruction, ignore warnings or blame others when things go wrong?

Aquila must have observed Priscilla’s willingness and readiness to humbly receive advice and guidance from mentors without abandoning her personal responsibilities. Some writers report how Aquila had traditionally been taught the trade of tentmaking from childhood in alignment with the Jewish custom of teaching all sons a practical skill. This suggests that it was Aquila who mentored Priscilla in that trade. And as they worked together, Aquila must have been open to correction hence the unity and success that they seem to have enjoyed. When it came to ministry, Priscilla’s humility is seen in the way she worked alongside Paul while remaining responsible for her role in ministry (Acts 18:3; Romans 16:3). She listened to guidance but did not step back from her other responsibilities. The lady guidance while still taking responsibility for what needed to be done. In the case of Aquila, the man worked in partnership and received counsel within the wider body of believers, while fulfilling his other responsibilities.

Jonathan responded very differently. He ignored internal warnings from his team, resisted scrutiny from board members and blamed his staff when problems became visible. His refusal to accept responsibility, even when the evidence was clear, showed Tabitha that he lacked the humility required for wise leadership.

A partner having intellectual maturity welcomes wise counsel and recognises the value of learning from others, you inclusive. At the same time, the individual accepts responsibility for his or her personal decisions and their consequences. The person may use your counsel to guide his or her decision, but responsibility for the action ultimately rests with the individual.