How can Ephesians 6:9 guide Christians in positions of authority? Setting the Scene “And masters, do the same things to them. Give up threatening and remember that both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.” (Ephesians 6:9) Paul has just instructed servants to obey “with sincerity of heart, as to Christ” (v. 5). Now he turns to the ones holding authority. Because Scripture is accurate and literal, we receive this as God’s clear directive for every Christian who oversees employees, volunteers, students, children, or any sphere of responsibility. The Command in Context • “Do the same things to them” – Treat those under you with the same sincerity, goodwill, and respect you expect from them (vv. 5-8). • “Give up threatening” – Abandon coercive, fear-based leadership. • “Remember… their Master and yours is in heaven” – You manage people who already have a higher Boss. • “There is no favoritism with Him” – God never plays favorites; neither should we. Principles for Leaders Drawn from the Verse • Mutuality: Authority does not cancel the call to serve (Luke 22:25-26). • Kindness over intimidation: Influence grows out of Christ-like character, not fear tactics (Proverbs 29:14). • Accountability: Every decision is ultimately reviewed by the Lord (Romans 14:10-12). • Impartiality: Rank and résumé never sway God; evaluate by righteousness, not partiality (James 2:1). • Eternal perspective: Leadership is temporary; stewardship is eternal (Colossians 3:24-25). Practical Applications • Speak to employees the way you’d want Christ to address you—direct, truthful, yet gracious. • Replace “Do it or else” threats with clear expectations, resources, and encouragement. • Conduct regular self-audits: Am I using authority to serve or to shield my comfort? • Reward diligence fairly, whether the worker is high-profile or unseen. • When discipline is necessary, aim for restoration, not humiliation (Galatians 6:1). Heart Checks Ask the Spirit to reveal: – Hidden pride that delights in control (1 Peter 5:3). – Subtle favoritism toward those who flatter or benefit you. – Neglect of quiet, faithful workers who rarely complain. – Reliance on fear to gain compliance instead of modeling Christ’s servant-leadership. Cross-Reference Insights • Colossians 4:1: “Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” Same foundation, highlighting justice and equity. • Matthew 20:25-28: Jesus redefines greatness as serving. Authority is for lifting others, not elevating self. • 1 Peter 5:2-4: Shepherds must lead “not lording it over those entrusted to you,” echoing Paul’s ban on threatening. • Micah 6:8: “Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” A distilled checklist for every Christian leader. Encouragement to Walk It Out Lead today with a keen awareness that the Lord is observing every conversation and decision. When you treat subordinates with Christ-like respect, you are not merely managing—they are seeing a living picture of the Master they, and you, ultimately serve. |
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