So I was reading through Acts 3 & 4 this morning and Abba impressed on me the example of leadership that was portrayed by Peter and John, vs the control and fear that came from those that held position in the Jewish community at that time. One of the things He showed me was those in the religious positions got there on their own at the expense of others, and they were ultimately ruled by fear. Fear that someone might come in and establish themselves in a higher position than they could obtain. True authority and power scared them, which is why Peter and John had been arrested and brought before them.
But the example that Peter and John set was different in fact polar opposite. Here are some things that set them a part "Acts 4:8 "Then Peter, [because he was] filled with [and controlled by] the Holy Spirit, said to them..." they were filled with and fully obedient to the Holy Spirit. In verses 11-14 they spoke truth with boldness, truth that made it apparent that they had spent time with Jesus. The third thing is they demonstrated and brought unity to the people. Acts 4:24 "And when they heard it, lifted their voices together with one united mind to God and said, O Sovereign Lord, You are He Who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything that is in them,"
And
Acts 4:31-32 "And when they had prayed, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they continued to speak the Word of God with freedom and boldness and courage. Now the company of believers was of one heart and soul, ..."
The leadership they brought did not invoke fear, except from those whose positions felt threatened. It brought confidence, unity and love. And ultimately they were also submitted to authority as Jesus was submitted to the authority of the Father.
So I guess the question is are you trying to strive for position and control, or do you want to be an example for others that brings glory and honor to Abba?
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