Learning to lead
Of course Peter is talking primarily to church leaders whose aims and objectives are tied in to great gospel imperatives of mission, discipling and bringing to maturity the people of God. Of course they are willing, eager to serve, committed to being examples to others, never greedy for earthly rewards. Except, of course, they, like most humans, can be prey to the potent and beguiling temptations that come with power, status, money and leadership in any arena.
'You are the light of the world', Jesus said. So we are here to be examples. 'Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.' (Matt 5:14, 16) So we are here to provide a model of whole life discipleship that honours God and demonstrates his character. Peter's instructions to those with oversight, therefore, apply to Christians who have responsibilities for others in every area of life.
Indeed, as we consider this picture of Christ-like leadership, we should face up to the complexity of so many of our decisions and situations - a new post with more money, but not one that will best use our abilities; a managerial role requiring the extraction of high targets for delivery that is anything but shepherding the flock (unless leading to the abattoir is included!); a work situation that we do because we must, trapped by financial necessity and limited employment alternatives.
How do we put into practice the radical new pattern for leadership that Jesus often talked about, and, above all, exemplified? How do we fully accept authority and responsibility and still 'clothe ourselves with humility towards one another'?
Whether boss, manager, parent, teacher, politician or president, this is an area that requires hard thinking, hard praying and a fair amount of repentance.
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