How does Christ being "head of the body" influence church leadership today?

Christ’s headship declared

“He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning and firstborn from among the dead, so that in all things He may have preeminence.” — Colossians 1:18

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What “head of the body” means

• Authority: the right to direct every part (Ephesians 1:22–23).

• Source of life: every member receives nourishment and growth through Him (Colossians 2:19).

• Unity: the whole body is held together in Him (Ephesians 4:15–16).

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Shaping the structure of church leadership

• Christ delegates, not abdicates. Elders, pastors, and overseers lead as under-shepherds (1 Peter 5:2-4).

• Plurality of leadership reflects shared submission to the Head (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5).

• Scripture, Christ’s written word, becomes the governing document for all decisions (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

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Forming the attitude of leaders

• Humble service: “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45).

• Dependent prayer: leaders seek direction from the Head before acting (James 1:5).

• Holy example: “be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).

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Defining authority and accountability

• Ultimate accountability is vertical: leaders will “give an account” to Christ (Hebrews 13:17).

• Horizontal accountability: the body tests teachings against the Word (Acts 17:11).

• Discipline protects the body under Christ’s rule (Matthew 18:15-17).

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Practices that display His headship

• Regular expository preaching keeps Christ’s voice central.

• Communion and baptism visibly place the spotlight on His death and resurrection.

• Shepherding that prioritizes spiritual health over programs or popularity.

• Decision-making bathed in Scripture and prayer rather than majority preference.

• Mutual ministry: every member uses Spirit-given gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-7).

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Living it out today

When church leaders see themselves as stewards under the absolute Head, the congregation is protected, nourished, unified, and directed toward Christ’s glory rather than human agendas.