When Power Corrupts
In a world that often equates power with domination, success with authority, and leadership with control, we're confronted with a radical alternative – one that turns these notions upside down. This counter-cultural perspective isn't new; it's been around for two millennia, yet it remains as challenging and revolutionary today as it was when first introduced.
The heart of this message lies in the words of Jesus: "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you, it will be different." (Matthew 20:25-26)
These words were spoken in response to a mother's request for her sons to have positions of honor in Jesus' kingdom. It's a relatable scene – a parent wanting the best for their children, seeking security and status. But Jesus uses this moment to redefine what true greatness looks like in His kingdom.
"Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave." (Matthew 20:26-27)
This isn't just a nice idea or a suggestion. It's a complete inversion of the world's power structures. Jesus is saying that in His kingdom, the way up is down. The path to greatness is through service. The road to leadership is paved with humility.
But why is this so important? Because power, when misused, corrupts. History – both secular and religious – is littered with examples of power abused, authority misused, and people hurt as a result. From ancient crusades to modern scandals, the church has not been immune to this corruption.
Recent years have seen high-profile cases of church leaders abusing their positions, using their influence for personal gain or gratification rather than for service. These stories – whether from megachurches in America or global ministries abroad – have left many disillusioned, questioning the very institution meant to represent Christ on earth.
It's easy to become cynical, to wonder if the church can ever truly embody the servant leadership Jesus modeled. But amidst the darkness, there are glimpses of light – moments where the church truly shines as the hands and feet of Christ:
- Communities rallying around those facing illness or hardship
- Churches mobilizing to meet tangible needs in their cities
- Believers sacrificing time and resources to care for the marginalized
These glimpses remind us of what the church can be when it embraces Jesus' upside-down kingdom values.
The ultimate example of this servant leadership is found in Jesus Himself. On the night He was betrayed, knowing the cross lay ahead, Jesus did something shocking. He wrapped a towel around His waist, knelt before His disciples, and washed their feet. This task, usually reserved for the lowest servant, became a powerful object lesson.
"I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you." (John 13:15)
Jesus, the one with all power and authority, chose to use that power not for His own benefit, but to serve others. He emptied Himself, taking on the very nature of a servant (Philippians 2:7). This is the model we're called to follow.
But let's be honest – it's not easy. Our natural inclination is to seek our own comfort, to protect our own interests, to elevate ourselves. Serving others, especially those who may not appreciate it or reciprocate, goes against our instincts. It's uncomfortable. It's vulnerable. It's risky.
Yet, this is precisely where the transformative power of the gospel shines brightest. When we choose to serve, to put others first, to use whatever influence or ability we have for the good of others – we reflect Christ to a watching world.
This call to servant leadership extends beyond church walls. It's a way of life that can revolutionize our families, workplaces, and communities. Imagine a world where people in positions of power consistently used that influence to lift others up rather than to dominate or control.
So, how do we live this out practically? Here are some questions to consider:
1. How can I use my skills, resources, or position to benefit others today?
2. Where do I need to "get my towel out" and serve, even if it's uncomfortable?
3. In what areas of my life am I tempted to lord authority over others instead of serving them?
4. Who in my sphere of influence needs encouragement or practical help?
Living this way isn't just about individual acts of service. It's about cultivating a heart posture that sees others as more important than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). It's about viewing our talents, resources, and even our suffering, as opportunities to reflect Christ's love to a hurting world.
This servant-hearted approach to life and leadership is countercultural. It won't always be understood or appreciated. There will be times when it feels like others are taking advantage of our kindness. In those moments, we're reminded of Jesus – who was ultimately taken advantage of to the point of death on a cross. Yet through that supreme act of servant leadership, He brought about the redemption of the world.
As we wrestle with disillusionment over the failings of religious institutions or leaders, let's not lose sight of the beautiful vision Jesus cast. The church, at its best, is a community of people committed to serving one another and the world around them in Jesus' name. When we embrace this calling, we become living testimonies to a different kind of kingdom – one where the last are first, the humble are exalted, and true greatness is measured by sacrificial love.
May we be people who consistently choose the towel over the throne, who use whatever power or influence we have to lift others up, and who, in doing so, point the world to the servant King who gave His life for us all.
The heart of this message lies in the words of Jesus: "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you, it will be different." (Matthew 20:25-26)
These words were spoken in response to a mother's request for her sons to have positions of honor in Jesus' kingdom. It's a relatable scene – a parent wanting the best for their children, seeking security and status. But Jesus uses this moment to redefine what true greatness looks like in His kingdom.
"Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave." (Matthew 20:26-27)
This isn't just a nice idea or a suggestion. It's a complete inversion of the world's power structures. Jesus is saying that in His kingdom, the way up is down. The path to greatness is through service. The road to leadership is paved with humility.
But why is this so important? Because power, when misused, corrupts. History – both secular and religious – is littered with examples of power abused, authority misused, and people hurt as a result. From ancient crusades to modern scandals, the church has not been immune to this corruption.
Recent years have seen high-profile cases of church leaders abusing their positions, using their influence for personal gain or gratification rather than for service. These stories – whether from megachurches in America or global ministries abroad – have left many disillusioned, questioning the very institution meant to represent Christ on earth.
It's easy to become cynical, to wonder if the church can ever truly embody the servant leadership Jesus modeled. But amidst the darkness, there are glimpses of light – moments where the church truly shines as the hands and feet of Christ:
- Communities rallying around those facing illness or hardship
- Churches mobilizing to meet tangible needs in their cities
- Believers sacrificing time and resources to care for the marginalized
These glimpses remind us of what the church can be when it embraces Jesus' upside-down kingdom values.
The ultimate example of this servant leadership is found in Jesus Himself. On the night He was betrayed, knowing the cross lay ahead, Jesus did something shocking. He wrapped a towel around His waist, knelt before His disciples, and washed their feet. This task, usually reserved for the lowest servant, became a powerful object lesson.
"I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you." (John 13:15)
Jesus, the one with all power and authority, chose to use that power not for His own benefit, but to serve others. He emptied Himself, taking on the very nature of a servant (Philippians 2:7). This is the model we're called to follow.
But let's be honest – it's not easy. Our natural inclination is to seek our own comfort, to protect our own interests, to elevate ourselves. Serving others, especially those who may not appreciate it or reciprocate, goes against our instincts. It's uncomfortable. It's vulnerable. It's risky.
Yet, this is precisely where the transformative power of the gospel shines brightest. When we choose to serve, to put others first, to use whatever influence or ability we have for the good of others – we reflect Christ to a watching world.
This call to servant leadership extends beyond church walls. It's a way of life that can revolutionize our families, workplaces, and communities. Imagine a world where people in positions of power consistently used that influence to lift others up rather than to dominate or control.
So, how do we live this out practically? Here are some questions to consider:
1. How can I use my skills, resources, or position to benefit others today?
2. Where do I need to "get my towel out" and serve, even if it's uncomfortable?
3. In what areas of my life am I tempted to lord authority over others instead of serving them?
4. Who in my sphere of influence needs encouragement or practical help?
Living this way isn't just about individual acts of service. It's about cultivating a heart posture that sees others as more important than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). It's about viewing our talents, resources, and even our suffering, as opportunities to reflect Christ's love to a hurting world.
This servant-hearted approach to life and leadership is countercultural. It won't always be understood or appreciated. There will be times when it feels like others are taking advantage of our kindness. In those moments, we're reminded of Jesus – who was ultimately taken advantage of to the point of death on a cross. Yet through that supreme act of servant leadership, He brought about the redemption of the world.
As we wrestle with disillusionment over the failings of religious institutions or leaders, let's not lose sight of the beautiful vision Jesus cast. The church, at its best, is a community of people committed to serving one another and the world around them in Jesus' name. When we embrace this calling, we become living testimonies to a different kind of kingdom – one where the last are first, the humble are exalted, and true greatness is measured by sacrificial love.
May we be people who consistently choose the towel over the throne, who use whatever power or influence we have to lift others up, and who, in doing so, point the world to the servant King who gave His life for us all.
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