Did you know that being a church leader can be dangerous? The enemy seems eager to ruin spiritual leaders, using different strategies to accomplish this purpose (1 Peter 5:8). He knows that when a leader is damaged, the entire church is affected. That is why members should pray continuously for their leaders.
The Bible presents some examples of people who didn't know how to manage the post of leadership, and this problem still exists today. You probably know of at least one person in a leadership position who was involved in something that caused a scandal for the church. Often these dangers are related to money or sex.
For many years after I became a pastor, I thought that if I experienced victories in these obvious temptation areas, I would be secure in my ministry. But life has shown me that the truth is not that simple. Another group of dangers also threatens spiritual leaders, and these dangers are much harder to detect because they reside in thoughts and habits; yet they are no less disastrous than the so-called "traditional" or "common" sins.
Pride
There is an inherent and strong desire in every human being to be appreciated, applauded, and popular with those under his or her leadership. But there is a real danger here, which Jesus talked about in Luke 6:26: "Woe to you, when all men speak well of you . . ."
Like a drug, pride has clouded the minds of some leaders. As a result, they are sometimes led to think that they are infallible and may end up becoming insensitive and tyrannical.
Pride resides in each of us. It is usually kept under control, not because of humility but for lack of an opportunity to reveal itself. We live in a world that does not value or desire humility. Be it in politics, business, or sports, people are always striving for recognition and fame. Unfortunately, this attitude has contaminated many good people. Humility is the trademark of any servant committed to God's work.
Power
Some leaders are also contaminated by the fatal attraction to power. Power in itself is not bad, but it can be dangerous. It is even more dangerous when it is disguised behind religion. When pride mixes with power, the result is disastrous. Unfortunately, the potential for abuse or misuse of power is also found inside each of us.
In the Church, it would be well to avoid the concept of "position," but rather to refer to "functions." The term "position" denotes power, while "function" denotes service. In church organization, we need presidents, department heads, district pastors, local elders, and deacons, but no one should feel greater or better than the other. We are important to this Church, but no one is irreplaceable.
Pride makes people think they are always right, and power makes them force others to agree. An ecclesiastical function is only truly blessed when given by God and when the person is transformed into an instrument of blessing. Therefore, no one should become puffed up because of his or her title or function.
Let us all perform the Church's work, seeking to do the best for the people and for God, without expecting human recognition. The sense of meaningful ness and acceptance of our service must come from God above all.
To serve as leaders in our Church can be a challenge, but it will certainly also be a great opportunity to do something that only we can do. Missing this opportunity would be throwing away a chance God has given us to make a difference in His Church.
Jonas Arrais
General Conference Associate Ministerial Secretary
