Repenting from False Authority
Rather than pointing out the false authority in others and resisting their commands, how do we recognize the insidious self-righteousness in our own behavior and repent from it? Fr. Sergius Halvorsen explores false authority which usurps the power of the scriptural commandment to assume the place of God.
Do you feel threatened by ego-driven leaders who insist on calling the shots?
· I’m in charge. It’s my decision. I don’t have to listen to you.
· It has to get done, so I’ll do it my way.
· I’ve been here longer than you, so I know better.
· My family built the church, so I’m entitled.
False authority usurps the power of the scriptural commandment to assume the place of God. Rather than pointing out the false authority in others and resisting their commands, how do we recognize the insidious self-righteousness in our own behavior and repent from it?
Fr. Sergius Halvorsen, Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at St. Vladimir’s Seminary and contributor to Doulos – The Intensive Program in Servant Leadership, begins a four-part series to explore serving with Christlike authority and humility.