Obey Them that Rule???

[ManOfWord]

OK, here's my take on submission and authority. There are MANY behind pulpits who believe they are "potentates" and rulers. They believe it is their responsibility and right to "rule" over people's lives in varying degrees. They are very good at wielding a sword. However, those "rulers" are always having difficulty getting people to submit to their "rulership." So they swing their sword harder and harder and threaten more and more. Those type of leaders NEVER have people wholeheartedly and willingly submitted to their lead.

On the other hand, there are leaders who do NOT believe it is their goal to get people to submit to them. These leaders are true shepherds and know that the enemy is the one who would destroy the sheep. The enemy is the ONLY one the true shepherd will use his sword on. The true shepherd will lay down his life for the sheep he protects. He will serve them and lead them into good pastures and lovingly correct them and lead them into the best grazing grounds. This type of leader has very little difficulty in getting people to follow his lead and submit to the direction he feels they should go.

One leader is good with the sword and the other is good with the towel. People will follow a leader who is willing to die with them as he leads them to battle. People will be very reluctant to follow a leader who shouts orders from the back of the crowd.

For a great read, get "The Way of the Shepherd" by Dr. Kevin Leman & William Pentak. It is very good reading. I have a young man in our church who moved to Toledo and works at a large hospital there. He read this little book and gave it to his supervisor to read as well. The supervisor made it mandatory reading for all of the staff. It's only about 100 pages long. EVERY pastor should read it and practice its principles.