Life and Books and Everything

The Blessing (and Danger) of Authority with Jonathan Leeman

May 22, 2024

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.

01:00:36

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Episode guests

Jonathan Leeman

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Quick takeaways

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.

Introduction

2min

Exploring Authority within the Nine Mark Series

9min

Navigating Intellectual Consistency and Constructive Dialogue

3min

Navigating Authority: Balancing Trust and Skepticism

17min

Fostering Teachability and Hunger for God's Word in Pastoral Interns

2min

Navigating Authority in Leadership Roles

20min

Contrasting Wisdom-Seeking Leadership in Pharaoh's Time

2min

Exploring the Dynamics of Good Authority and Leadership

6min

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.

Chapters:

0:00 Intro & Sponsors

2:45 The Blessing and Danger of Authority

14:08 Perspectives on Authority

35:37 Alternative Interpretations of Authority

50:34 Authority, Wisdom, and Leadership

1:00:33 Until Next Time…

Books & Everything:

ESV Spiral-Bound Journaling Bible, Five-Volume Set

Ask Pastor John: 750 Bible Answers to Life's Most Important Questions

Authority: How Godly Rule Protects the Vulnerable, Strengthens Communities, and Promotes Human Flourishing