Where Jesus gives a leading role to certain persons, that does not mean they are worth more than others. To illustrate this principle, think of the Roman governor Pilate. In his time and place, Pilate had a certain kind of authority over others. Jesus acknowledges that even He, at that time, is under that authority (John 19:11). Pilate’s authority is given “from above.” Despite the legitimacy of Pilate’s authority, that certainly does not make Pilate superior to Jesus, whether in ability or worth or rank. Quite the opposite is true!
Nor does it mean that Pilate may exercise his authority in just any way he choses. Political rulers are under God’s authority, which always demands fairness and justice (Proverbs 31:8-9; Deuteronomy 1:16-17). When Pilate abuses his position, he is wrong, and will be judged accordingly. In the same way, any authority given within the family or the church never implies the kind of “lording”—bullying and abuse—we see so often in society. The worldly person may wonder, “If I cannot enforce my will, how will I ever get them to obey me?” The answer is spiritual, and unspiritual people may never understand it (1 Corinthians 2:13-14).
To follow leaders appointed by Jesus is simply part of following Jesus. And why do we follow Jesus? Because we are forced to? Obviously not. We follow out of wholehearted respect for Jesus. We love Him with all our hearts for the love He showed to us (1 John 4:19). We voluntarily fit into His way, whether we fully understand it or not. Why? Because we honor Him and trust that His way is best for our well-being. Whatever our culture may say, whatever the pressures of the day may be, we try in everything to follow Jesus. The Creator’s wisdom in Christ is far wiser than the creature’s best thinking (Isaiah 40:13; 1 Corinthians 1:25). This study seeks to learn from God’s wisdom about our roles in the family and among God’s people.