Quote:
Originally Posted by aron
In the insular world of the fringe sect, reality is defined by Maximum Leader (ML) and none else. Everything ML said was "the oracle of God", and therefore it all made perfect sense, even when it didn't.
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by awareness
Does the Moses model ring a bell?
|
Whether it's the oracle of the Maximum Leader, the Moses Model, Delegated Authority, or Deputy Authority -- it's all the same -- fallen human beings lording it over other fallen human beings. Our Lord repeatedly discipled the Twelve concerning this very matter. Listen to what Jesus said in Mark chapter 10,
And when the other ten disciples heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called all the disciples to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their distinguished officials exercise authority over them. But it shall not be this way among you. Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
This short instruction by the Lord Jesus speaks volumes. The church's greatest tragedy has been not heeding what He has said here. Once these principles are violated, everyone is damaged. This forum is filled with the sad stories of those little ones hurt by leaders who longed to be "THE Authority." These church "rulers" do get earthly power, fame, and pleasure, but at what cost? Look at how many of God's children get ruined by their greed. Think about how many unbelievers never get to know His saving grace because of these scandals of corruption. Consider how much shame is brought upon the precious name of Jesus.
The apostles called it "filthy lucre," referring to the host of lucrative gains accumulated by those who profess to be serving God. Whether sinful lusts and pleasures, fame, power, control, financial wealth -- it's all the same. Why is it that these evils always seem to accompany those who long to be Numero Uno?