A Consideration of Christian Leadership

What characterizes leadership in Christian communities? All believers are indwelt by the same Spirit and are equally welcome in God's presence. There is no class of nobles that automatically assumes the mantle of command. None of the apostles had wealth, worldly status, or superior educations. Is there something distinctive about a Jesus-style of leadership? Who should lead in church? Under what circumstances? These are important questions and have received different answers across the globe and across the centuries.

This sermon series will draw on lessons of leadership learned in this church over the sixty years of our existence. We hope newcomers will find explanations of patterns here that are different from secular organizations and other churches they have known. We also expect the light of God's word to illuminate new things for all of us, as we embark on our seventh decade.

This week:

Shared Leadership

1 Peter 5:1-7

The most familiar pattern of group organization resembles a pyramid, with one leader at the top, senior management below, middle management next, etc. The early church was led by a community of equals - apostles who sought to know the mind of the Lord, whom they counted on to give direction as Head of the body (his people). Shared leadership is difficult and not too often encountered in churches today. How can we overcome the difficulties and take advantage of the benefits of leadership shared among a community of elders?