Our distrust of God is what drives our trust in ourselves. We, in practice, believe that we can make better decisions, control situations better, and get the job done better than the LORD, even if we would never admit that. So too the Israelite leaders—priests and kings and counselors—thought they knew better than the LORD when Zechariah spoke around 500 B.C.
Leadership Abuse
The Sin of [Bystander] Complicity: Toxic Followership in the Workplace
It is a sin to fail to act against abuse. Unfortunately, it is all too common for bystanders in the workplace to stand by the abuser. Standing up for victims is essential, despite fears and pressures.
Real Change: Peter and Abuse
Peter's words for those struggling with abusive or controlling tendencies emphasize the need for inner transformation and repentance.
Abuse in the Bible: But Does it Even Use That Word?
The Bible may not include the term "abuse" in every translation, but it uses various words that convey the concept, emphasizing the seriousness and destructive nature of abuse.
Grace Through Criticism: Uzziah – When He Became Strong
Sixteen-year old Uzziah ascended to the leadership of Judah after his father’s demise and reigned righteously for much of his 52 year rule. However, his arrogance led to his ruin.
The Gods Have Come Down: The Temptations of Praise
What happens down, deep within you when your subordinates, or even friends, begin to praise your holy name? Does your heart rise up and meet their praises with praises of its own? Does your heart congratulate itself and take on new proportions?
Lazarus Must Die: When Image Control Takes No Prisoners
Jesus, after performing the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, gained followers, threatening the authority of the chief priests and Pharisees. These abusive leaders plotted to both kill Lazarus and defame Jesus to maintain their control. They, like other abusive leaders, used a variety of tactics to suppress the truth and protect their image.
Do Not Cover Their Guilt: Imprecatory Praying
Imprecatory Praying: It is a hard topic for Christians to wrap their heads around. When I normally speak of "imprecatory praying" I give qualifications. But Nehemiah, in a display of raw emotion, simply asks the Lord to destroy this enemy.
Individual Responsibility: But I was raised that way!
The article deliberates on the topic of abusive leaders who learned harmful behaviors from childhood. While some might give such individuals a pass due to their upbringing, the emphasis is that everyone is accountable for their actions, irrespective of their background. Abusers hold responsibility for their actions and must seek repentance and transformation. Christian teachings underscore this principle of individual accountability, urging people to reject oppressive behaviors, even if learned from authority figures or role models.
Rachel’s Story: Tenacious Pursuit of Justice
When Rachel Black was struggling to make sense of her abusive pastor, there was no Christianity Today Mars Hill podcasts and seemingly no books on how an employee in a church is to respond to such disregard. All she knew was the "hairs on her arms stood up" as she sought to understand her boss.