The Blessing (and Danger) of Authority with Jonathan Leeman
May 22, 2024
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Jonathan Leeman, editorial director for 9Marks, discusses the importance of good authority vs. abusive authority and shares real-life examples. Topics include perspectives on authority, wisdom, leadership, and the impact of authority on communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for humility, openness to learning, and trust-building in leadership roles.
Seeking and heeding good counsel is crucial for effective governance and flourishing.
Effective leadership involves listening, asking questions, and fostering individual contributions for harmonious outcomes.
Building trust through vulnerability allows for meaningful connections and fosters a culture of openness and respect.
Deep dives
Two Pharaohs: Contrasting Approaches to Authority
One Pharaoh, during Joseph's time, sought and valued wisdom from a slave, leading to the kingdom's salvation. Conversely, another Pharaoh during Moses's time was unreceptive to the wisdom of an adopted prince, resulting in the kingdom's destruction. This illustrates the significance of seeking and heeding good counsel for effective governance and flourishing.
Seeking Good Authority: Conductors and Orchestras
A good authority is compared to a skilled orchestra conductor who recognizes and draws out the best from each player. Like guiding an orchestra, effective leadership involves listening, asking questions, and fostering individual contributions to create harmonious and productive outcomes.
Leadership Lessons from Trustworthy Authorities
Recognizing the wisdom of vulnerability, impactful leaders exhibit a deep meekness beneath their outward strength. Building trust through vulnerability allows for meaningful connections and fosters a culture of openness and respect.
Wisdom in Seeking Diverse Perspectives
Emphasizing the importance of diverse voices, good authority values the unique gifts and perspectives of each individual. Encouraging the contribution of various talents and insights optimizes decision-making and enriches communal experiences.
Valuing the Contributions of Helpers and Partners
Acknowledging the partnership with helpers, including spouses, good authority taps into the diverse strengths and skills of others. Engaging these resources fosters collaboration and enhances decision-making processes for the benefit of the collective unit.
We live in a day where authority is often rebuffed and where many people are quick to assume all authority is abusive authority. And yet, some authority is abusive. But the antidote to bad authority is not “no authority” but “good authority.” Kevin welcomes Jonathan Leeman, editorial director for 9Marks, into the virtual studio to talk about Jonathan’s new book Authority: How Godly Rule Protects the Vulnerable, Strengthens Communities, and Promotes Human Flourishing. You’ll hear real life examples of good authority in action, and you’ll hear how authority can sadly be used for evil. Whether you exercise authority or sit under authority (and we all do some of both), you’ll be interested to listen in as two friends chat away on this important topic.