The king sat down to his royal feast with some of his closest advisers. His power was felt by all who sat with him. Yet, the king knew that he was going to be betrayed by one of those advisers. His secret service had uncovered the plot. He knew an overthrow of his kingdom was at hand. So, what was he to do? We know what we would do. We know what a "worldly" leader would do. He/we would do everything possible to strengthen our claim to the throne. We would put down the rebellion before it had any chance to gain a foothold, knowing the traitor and his intent. But Jesus . . .
Leadership
Crazy Making and Abusive Leadership: Who is Crazy Here?
As my friends and I discussed John 11, I was struck by verses 47 and 48. These couple sentences are so appropo for those who have faced abuse in any setting. The term "Crazy-Making" is often used to describe this infurtiating experience. Jesus has just raised his friend, Lazarus from the dead. And yet, this is what the chief priests and Pharisees said!
Leadership Wisdom and Humility: God Chose What is Foolish in the World to Shame the Wise
1st Corinthians 1 says so many things to leaders as well as subordinates in Christian organizations. It speaks of calling and of wisdom and of foolishness and of power and of weakness and of arrogance—all of which are related to leadership and those who follow.
The Hope of New Creation for Leadership
May Easter bring leadership transformation.
The Effective Leader: Temperance, Empathy, and Humility
A friend of mine says, "Leadership is easy when things are easy. But real leadership happens when things are difficult." It is in those challenging times that the real heart of the leader becomes evident.
James and Oppression 1: Murderous Words
The book of James has profound insights on oppressive leadership, hypocrisy, and the power of words in Christian contexts. This is the first in a series on James and oppression.
Jealousy and Leadership: A Toxic Mix
For the leader who considers his authority questioned whenever another human being in his orbit receives accolades for his or her skills, the temptation to not only covet but attempt control over that gifted one is a problem.
The Golden Rule: How Can Leaders Interpret it Accurately?
No matter your background, you have likely heard this maxim used. It is simple, to the point, and can be helpful in determining a course of action that is selfless. But is there another interpretation of it that is biblical?
How Toxic Leaders Respond to Strength: Toxic Leadership Goes from Bad to Worse
The toxic leader will be threatened by the slightest show of strength from subordinates. This was the story of the new king of Egypt in the time following the death of Joseph.
Leadership: Seeking the Glory of Another
Leaders should emphasize the importance of humility and giving credit to others while encouraging leadership that fosters teamwork and values subordinates' contributions.