Leading and Following

Published:
May 12, 2023 (one year ago)

Did you ever play “follow the leader?” It was a common playground game and people usually clamored to be the leader. The leader could make no mistakes. He or she did whatever they wanted to do and everybody else had to follow their lead. Miss the cue and out you go. Blind followership might be appropriate for a playground game but as adults we need discernment. Think of the evils perpetuated because somebody was given an order and they followed it without conscience or moral compass. Genocide, wars, theft, abuse and the list goes on and on. As Americans, our radar is always on the lookout for people trying to take advantage of us or lead us astray. Rebellion against leaders is in our DNA, historically and spiritually. From Adam and Eve to the founding fathers, we’re ready to disobey if somebody seems to be infringing upon our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Our text for Sunday from Hebrews 13 is guaranteed to raise a few suspicions. Words like “submit” and “obey” make us uneasy. Of course, some of the things done in the name of the church have caused our cynicism. People have misused their authority and used their leadership positions to take advantage of others in ways that are shameful and contrary to the gospel. What authority do church leaders have? To whom are they accountable? What if we refuse to obey? Answers to these questions, and a few more, as we study the subject of biblical leadership this week.