What can we learn from Paul and Barnabas about humility and leadership? Setting the Scene Acts 14 finds Paul and Barnabas in Lystra, where a miraculous healing leads the townspeople to exalt them as gods. Verse 14 captures their immediate response: “But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard about this, they tore their clothes and rushed into the crowd, shouting,” (Acts 14:14). Humility on Display • Tearing their clothes signaled grief that God’s glory was being misplaced. • They “rushed into the crowd” instead of backing away—taking initiative to correct the misunderstanding. • Their words (vv. 15-17) redirect all credit to “the living God,” refusing personal acclaim. • Their humility is active, not passive; they act swiftly to guard God’s honor. Leadership Principles We See 1. Deflect praise to God ‑ Acts 14:15: “We too are only men, human like you.” ‑ 1 Corinthians 3:5-7: leaders are merely “servants… God gives the growth.” 2. Guard followers from idolatry ‑ They protect the crowd from a spiritual misstep, modeling shepherd-like care. 3. Bold truth-telling, even when misunderstood ‑ Their correction risks alienating an enthusiastic audience, yet fidelity to truth outweighs popularity. 4. Shared, team-oriented leadership ‑ Barnabas and Paul speak together. Leadership is collaborative, not spotlight-hungry. 5. Visible humility strengthens authority ‑ By lowering themselves, they gain moral weight—echoing Jesus’ teaching: “Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43-44). Supporting Scriptural Echoes • John 3:30 – “He must increase; I must decrease.” • 1 Peter 5:5b – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • 2 Corinthians 4:7 – “We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that this surpassing power is from God and not from us.” Practical Takeaways for Today • When recognition comes, verbally reroute it to Christ. • Step in quickly when others place you on a pedestal—silence can sound like consent. • Cultivate partnerships in ministry; shared leadership curbs ego. • Let visible humility—apology, vulnerability, servant-hearted actions—underscore your message. • Evaluate success by faithfulness to God’s mission, not by human applause. A Closing Snapshot Paul and Barnabas model leaders who are confident in their calling yet quick to lower themselves so Christ alone is exalted. Their example invites us to lead with courage, truth, and an unswerving humility that points every eye toward the “living God” they so passionately served. |
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