I just rediscovered this short article that I wrote back in 2003, trying to take seriously Jesus’ call for his followers to be radical in their “leadership” style.
Here is how it begins:
There are certain ways of ‘making it’ as a leader in Christian circles. There are certain, almost expected, ways for church leaders to attain a desirable level of respect and honour.
Let me guide you through the process, step-by-step:
- Establish a teaching ministry where there is distance between yourself and the people that you’re teaching. The distance gives your hearers the impression that you have a complete grasp of your subject, and that you don’t need their help in practising what you preach.
- Allow yourself to be made an example for others in terms of your successes—how people have come to the Lord through your ministry, or whatever success it is.
- Gladly accept honoured treatment from other Christians—when they are introducing you as a speaker, for example: “So-and-so spent 14 years doing such-and-such, during which time his congregation grew significantly in numbers and maturity. He’s well-known as a speaker, and has vast experience in the area about which he speaks to us this evening.”
- Make the most of honourable titles, depending on your particular tradition—Father, Reverend, Worship Leader, Pastor …
I wonder if this process is not out of the ordinary among Christian leaders. And I wonder if Jesus Christ is displeased…
The whole article is here
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