How can leaders avoid "lording over" those in their care today? Anchoring in the Text “...not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:3) What “Lording Over” Looks Like • Using position to demand personal loyalty rather than pointing people to Christ • Making decisions in isolation and expecting unquestioned compliance • Elevating self-interest—comfort, reputation, recognition—above the welfare of the flock • Treating people as resources to exploit instead of souls to cultivate Christ’s Alternative Model Matthew 20:25-28 shows Jesus flipping cultural norms: “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” • Greatness = Servanthood • Authority = Responsibility, not privilege • Leadership = Willing sacrifice Practical Ways to Avoid “Lording Over” 1. Adopt a Servant’s Mindset – Study Philippians 2:5-8. Christ “emptied Himself” and took “the nature of a servant.” – Consciously choose the basin and towel (John 13:14-15). 2. Lead by Example, Not Edict – Walk the talk before asking others to follow. – Let visible obedience carry more weight than verbal demands. 3. Share Decision-Making – Seek counsel (Proverbs 15:22). – Invite feedback; value perspectives from every level of responsibility. 4. Guard the Tone of Communication – Speak with respect (Colossians 4:6). – Correct privately when possible; praise publicly when appropriate. 5. Protect the Vulnerable – Ezekiel 34:4 condemns shepherds who “ruled them with force and violence.” – Make sure policies, schedules, and workloads promote health and dignity. 6. Measure Success by Spiritual Growth – Prioritize discipleship milestones over numerical or financial metrics. – Celebrate fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) in those you lead. Self-Checks for Leaders • Would I still serve if no one noticed? • Do my people feel safe to disagree with me? • Is my greatest joy seeing Christ formed in others (Galatians 4:19)? The Promise for Faithful Shepherds “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” (1 Peter 5:4) The true reward isn’t earthly power but eternal commendation from the One who owns the flock. |
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