Blog

Under Authority

March 7, 2025

In this position, you see and read a lot of material on leadership.

It’s always interesting to see how varied the advice and opinions can be. One of the oft-repeated phrases is a quote attributed to John Maxwell, 

“Everything rises and falls on leadership.”

While there is some truth to this phrase, I think it is better stated that “Everything is directly affected by leadership.”

Over the years of my time in the ministry and education circles, I have come to be more convinced that everything rises and falls on Lordship.

Submitted Lordship

Within humanity – apart from God’s truth – the concept of lordship is often abusive based on having power or position over another and driven by fear. Unfortunately, there is a lot of this type of leadership, leading to brokenness.

The Biblical view of Lordship was exemplified by Jesus’ life. He made it clear that He was here to do the will of the Father.

In Luke 22:41-42, in the Garden of Gethsemane just before the trial and crucifixion, Jesus prayed,

And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.

Godly Success

These two principles are the foundations that, if used as our worldview filters, will help us build lives and ministries that glorify God:

1. I am not God. This life is not mine to pursue my will, pleasure, or happiness. It was given to me to do His will. I am not the boss; I am His servant.
   
2. Only after I first willingly submit to His will can I then properly relate to every person, situation, and event in life.

I submit to human authority because I have first submitted to His authority.

I care first and foremost about His performance review of my work.

I love others as much as I love myself because He has commanded me to.

When every aspect of our lives is informed by these foundation principles, we can experience God’s version of success.

“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” Joshua 1:8 

All the seminars, books, principles, and quotes, apart from God’s word, can only lead to humanistic leadership.

Which version of success will we model, seek after, and encourage our children to pursue?

Mr. David McClain, Head of School at FCS, shares insights relating to Christian education, biblical worldview, building Christian character, and current events. Read the Weekly Words archives here.