Redefining Leadership: Servitude Over Authority in Matthew 23 (02/04/'24)

Redefining Leadership: Servitude Over Authority in Matthew 23 The passage from Matthew 23:10 is part of a broader critique Jesus makes of the religious leaders of his time, particularly the Pharisees and scribes. In Matthew 23, Jesus warns against hypocrisy, self-promotion, and the burdens these leaders place on others without offering support themselves. He criticizes them for seeking titles of honor and for their outward display of piety that lacks genuine humility and service. In the context of Matthew 23, Jesus' admonition to avoid being called leaders underscores a radical redefinition of leadership based on servitude rather than authority or power. Jesus contrasts the model of leadership prevalent among the religious authorities with the model of leadership he embodies and teaches, which is servant leadership. The essence of this leadership style is not to lord over others but to serve them, a concept that is indeed paradoxical to conventional understandings of leadership both in his time and often in the present day. The passage raises important questions about leadership within the church and the potential tension between institutional needs and the call to serve. The modern church, operating within a capitalist framework, often faces the challenge of balancing growth, financial stability, and its mission to serve and foster genuine discipleship. It is time for a reformation of Christianity to overcome these problems and align more closely with the leadership model advocated by Jesus. -Pastor Steven G. Lee (February 4, 2024)