Who Really Leads The Church?

For the Christian, Jesus is the ultimate leader but it is also imperative to know that leadership in the church, with Jesus as the true leader, is very vital to a believer's development.

The church is ultimately led by Jesus Christ but one must know that aligning with a local church is essential for submitting to His leadership. Because some in leadership have abused their authority, believers can have reservations about submitting to leaders of the church. However, if those leaders understand that the church is not run by any individual leader, rather Jesus is who delegates authority to elders, their roles are significant in church governance.

Choosing to be part of a church aligns believers with Jesus’ authority and guidance. Christ is the eternal leader of the church, providing a stable foundation amid changing times. His unchanging nature reassures believers of His consistent guidance. Coming together with the brethren is an act of submission to Jesus as the true leader. With Jesus at the helm Christians can be assured that His teachings are consistent across time. The church's focus should remain on Christ and real godly leadership will ensure that remains the mission of their congregations.

Honor Your Leaders

So to understand church leadership, you have to understand the church's mission in the first place. The church is a global assembly called to influence society and culture, embodying Jesus’ teachings. Church members are encouraged to submit to their leaders and follow biblical teachings for spiritual growth. Elders in a church serve as human representatives of Christ’s authority, and their leadership is essential for the church’s operation and direction, providing structure and spiritual oversight. Engaging with a local church fosters spiritual growth and accountability, allowing believers to experience the fullness of community and discipleship.

Submitting to authority does not come naturally, in fact, the flesh often resists submission to authority, especially in God. But Hebrews 13:7-9 emphasizes remembering and honoring your leaders. “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith,” the scripture in verse 7 reads. It is important to remember your past leaders who have contributed positively to your walk in Christ, despite their failures.

Honoring leaders regardless of their imperfections is a choice given by God. Christians are to consider their way of life and imitate their faith, not their failures. Jesus delegates authority to human leaders, known as elders. Members of a church need guidance. Following good examples and obeying teachings are crucial. Experimenting with obedience to leaders can lead to different, positive results. Submission is challenging but always rewarding. Pastor Mike laid out 10 ways members can bless those who watch out for their souls (Hebrews 13:17)

10 Responsibilities of Church Members to Leaders:

1. Pray for them (Colossians 4:2-3)

2. Follow their Example (1 Corinthians 4:14-17)

3. Obey their teaching and Counsel ( Hebrews 13:17)

4. Submit to them (Hebrews 13:17)

5. Acknowledge and Appreciate them (I Thessalonians 5:12)

6. Regard, Esteem, Respect, and Honor them (1 Tim 5:17)

7. Live Peacefully with them (1 Thessalonians 5:13)

8. Support them Financially (1 Tim 5:17-18)

9. Become a Joy to Serve them (Hebrews 13:17

10. Support their Vision (Phil 1:27, 2:14)

Leaders Should Follow Jesus’ Lead

Leaders should prepare for sermons by humbly seeking God's guidance and sharing the vision of Jesus for the church. The word 'ecclesia' is explained as a prestigious assembly with authority, not merely a building or gathering. Originally, 'church' referred to a body of believers with authoritative roles, affecting regional atmospheres. The church's role includes governance and spiritual jurisdiction, emphasizing its powerful influence. It is not something to take lightly. The name of Jesus holds jurisdictional power, symbolizing a transformative shift in identity and authority.

Believers are empowered to decree and change the atmosphere in their regions through faith. The church has the authority to make decrees that influence the spiritual and physical realms, emphasizing the power of collective faith and prayer. The church is called to infiltrate various sectors like arts and technology, reflecting Jesus’ teachings and values in modern contexts. The body of believers is tasked with raising up future generations of leaders and believers, ensuring the continuity of faith and the mission of spreading the Gospel.

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About the Author

Jeannie Ortega Law is a chart-topping singer, evangelist, media personality and author from New York City.  She can be reached on social media: @JeannieOrtega or emailed at Info@JeannieO.com

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