In what ways can we ensure our leadership aligns with biblical principles today? A brief look at 2 Kings 15:13 “In the thirty-ninth year of Azariah king of Judah, Menahem son of Gadi became king over Israel, and he reigned in Samaria ten years.” Menahem seized power violently (v. 14) and “did evil in the sight of the LORD” (v. 18). His decade on the throne shows how quickly a nation drifts when leadership ignores God. Where leadership goes wrong - Power obtained by force rather than calling (15:14) - Ongoing idolatry—“he did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam” (15:18) - Oppression of the weak—“he ripped open all the pregnant women” in Tiphsah (15:16) - Dependence on worldly alliances—tribute to Assyria (15:19-20) Principles for aligning leadership with Scripture today - Depend on God’s appointment, not self-promotion - Submit to the written Word • Deuteronomy 17:18-20; Joshua 1:8 - Lead as servants, not overlords - Uphold justice and mercy - Guard personal holiness • 1 Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:7-9 - Practice financial integrity • 2 Corinthians 8:20-21; Luke 16:10-12 - Seek wisdom through prayer and counsel - Remain accountable to God-fearing peers • Galatians 2:11-14; Hebrews 13:17 - Protect the vulnerable - Lead with courage and humility • Joshua 1:9; Philippians 2:3-4 Practical steps for churches, homes, and workplaces - Measure every leader against 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 qualifications - Encourage daily Bible immersion and public reading of Scripture (1 Timothy 4:13) - Establish transparent decision-making and financial reporting - Form accountability teams that lovingly confront sin (Matthew 18:15-17) - Mentor future leaders by modeling godliness (2 Timothy 2:2) - Pray collectively for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2) - Celebrate testimonies of servant leadership to reinforce the standard |
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