Two things come quickly to mind:
First, we must return to the biblical qualifications of church leadership. We have become worldly and value charisma over character, skillsets over spirituality, magnetism over maturity, and displays over depth. Too many people entering ministry love crowds but not people, seek fame and not humility, and crave power instead of servanthood. Spiritual authority is so often abused because it is devoid of spiritual authenticity.
Second, we must accept that we live in a post-Christian world. This means that a positive view of church leaders can’t be assumed. If anything, as Gallup’s polling shows, the opposite is true. This means that church leaders must not demand trust, but instead earn it. Or as Henry Cloud has written, “‘Just trust me’ should come with sirens, flashing lights and other warning signs.” Too many leaders, when thinking of cultivating their image, think of designer clothes, glam shots, and social media likes. They need to think of clothing themselves with righteousness.
“Trust,” adds Cloud, “is the fuel for all of life.” It is important to understand its essentials, to grow in trust and, when needed, to heal from broken trust. This is true for all of us. But for those in positions of church leadership, the goal is much more foundational:
Be trustworthy.
This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.
