Power, Authority, and Responsibility

Power is the fundamental undermining element in the struggle between politics and structure; the investment into the church to obtain power or prestige. It is also the element of transition that can conquer any church when the pastor’s office is vacated. When power is moved or abandoned, a political vortex is created which can corrupt every aspect of ministry and positive influence in the church’s inner and exterior community. Influence is not the same as power, but power can make influence oppressive rather than constructive.

The interesting element to this situation is that the presence of such a political vortex necessitates a focus from the church and her staff on power itself. One might assume, just as I did early in my ministry without a pastor, that power and the pursuit of such power should be abandoned and pushed to the corner of the room in order that the church would be able to focus what ‘truly matters.’ Conversely, when power is available, but leadership does not take an active role in dividing responsibility, those who might assume power for personal gain will gladly take such an opportunity.

Responsibility being divided will be unique to every church, and we have already discussed these issues to some extent. The main point is that each member of the leadership group, including you, must make sacrifice to fulfill the needs of the church.

Power on the other hand should be actively funneled to the Holy Spirit. Coming from a Baptist church, I am aware of the way that some churches are hesitant to relinquish control of the activities, programs, worship services, and other endeavors to the Holy Spirit. However, it is critical that the Holy Spirit be in soul possession of power. The Holy Spirit must be given this power in order that the church not be guilty of making themselves idols any longer than they already have.

The most effective way for a person, other than the senior pastor, to begin the process relinquishing power and authority to the Holy Spirit is through the reading of scripture in the presence of the entire congregation. The reading of scripture is a humbling process and displays each element of proper leadership in this trying time. It is the assumption of responsibility and the relinquishing of authority and power to the Holy Spirit through the scripture that is above dispute.

Power hungry individuals will be unable to dispute the authority of the scripture and each of the leadership will be actively involved in the lifting up of the Holy Spirit. Though the process may be slow, the focus of the church will be continuously propelled toward the only one who is worthy of focus, worship, and adoration.