CHOOSING WORTHY LEADERS

Dallas Willard (1935-2013) philosopher and theologian wrote:
“If the kingdoms of our contemporary world are to be transformed into a kingdom that manifests the grace, truth, justice, and mercy of Christ the king, there must be leaders who are willing and able to demonstrate Christlike qualities and courage and then use them to influence the power structures of contemporary society. Today, the roles and responsibilities of our leaders cannot be underestimated. In a world overtaken by an instantaneous, global media culture, leaders do not need to be of international renown for the consequences of their words and actions to have immediate, international effects. Thus, in many ways a leader’s ability to influence, guide, and direct has never been more powerful.” (From The Divine Conspiracy, written in 1998… 28 years ago)
An important note in this statement is to notice that the leader Willard speaks of is not just making a political point. All leaders, especially Spirit filled men and women who parent children, and including shepherds for the Lord’s people, must be ‘willing and able to demonstrate Christlike qualities and courage.’ All leadership roles begin by the leaders being able to govern themselves and their families… before leading others.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Jesus