Student Leadership 6
Last week we sought to show that a Biblical Christian perspective of Leadership is generally plural by noting firstly the Triune nature of God and secondly the plan of God to create people who would live and work together.
As we proceed through the Biblical narrative we see more and more of this plurality of leadership. We tend to think of Old Testament characters as strong individual leaders, but closer readings (that are not tainted by the surrounding contemporary culture of individualism) show us how others were often involved.
Moses was a key leader and we picture him as individually standing up to Pharaoh on behalf of the Israelite people. However, we read:
“Go and gather the elders of Israel together… you and the elders of Israel shall go to the king of Egypt”[1]
Could King David have operated effectively without the encouragement, critique and conscience of the prophet Nathan?
Daniel had three very important supportive friends.
Yes, God called Abraham, Moses, Daniel, David and others to lead, and they were given the gifts and abilities to do so – but not alone.
As we move to the New Testament, we see that Jesus operates with a team – of course He is the recognized leader – but He consciously engages others.
Elders are appointed to every church. [2]
The Biblical principle of interdependence and the diversity of gifts in the Body is a major theme of Paul’s letters.[3]
Gifts are given to “The Body” – thus no single person has all the gifts necessary to function or lead by themselves.
It seems to be God’s intention to make us inter-dependent – He uses gifts AND weaknesses.
Then, there is the family – the basis of community life.[4]
The Biblical case seems quite strong in relation to community and interdependence; it is reasonable to conclude that this also applies to leadership.
What does this mean as we seek to develop leadership amongst our students?
Blessings
Brian
[1] Exodus 3:16,18
[2] Acts 14:21-23
[3] Romans 12:4–6; 1 Corinthians 12.
[4] Ephesians 3:14-19