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Larry Peebles

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In this text the author Howell addresses one of the hardest and I am not afraid to say difficult process of an adult especially a Christian adult. This process or character that is responsible for the downfall of kings and kingdoms throughout history is "pride".  Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."  Howell talks about taking on the persona of a child in other to effectively complete the task of missionary work.  The disciple Peter wrote, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you."  I believe Howell is relaying this same message as Peter when it comes to taking on that persona of a servant. Jesus first taught this message to the disciples and others present concerning the resistance of allowing children to approach Him.  Christ knew that He had little or nothing to fear from these children and their intentions.  But it is those of age that meant Him the most harm.  

The unexpected actions of Christ at the Passover supper caught the disciples off guard because they had previously witness and knew the power He possessed.  For Him to dress and take on the position of what was considered at that time the lowest level in society, in order to serve them by washing their feet is the same attitude that is necessary today for anyone that call themselves a servant of God (Howell, p.200).  It is all about servitude and the digression of pride.  It is the wise and mature action of any believer.  Proverbs 11:2 states, "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." What seems to others as being a coward or weak, God considers this as an act of obedience.

When I was an associate minister of an formal church I knew my kingdom obligation was to aid and assist the head pastor and all administrative duties in order for him to concentrate of delivering the message of God.  My additional duties were teaching and overseeing Bible study and Sunday school classes.  I also monitored all additional ministries within the church. When I was ordained and became a pastor there were occasions when I was the guest speaker at other churches that offered a love gift at the end of the sermon.  When the Spirit within demands that you decline this love gift then I was obedient to that voice.  Kingdom leadership is leading by example.  An example that states the priority is the calling and it is not for monetary gain.

Bibliography

Howell, Don N.  Servants of the Servant.  A Biblical Theology of Leadership.  

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