RELATIONAL LEADERSHIP

What if celebrity-ism is not just found on the stage but also off it?

We have unfortunately seen a deluge of celebrity preachers, influencer ministers, and rockstar pastors through the decades.

But where does it all start?

It rarely starts big.

I remember reading an article by Sandra Stanley years ago when she talked about “The Evolution of a Court.” She mentioned a book by Albert Speer entitled “Inside the Third Reich: Memoirs.” He said, “Hitler himself put up no visible resistance to the evolution of a court.”

What is the “evolution of the court?”

In her article, Sandra Stanley said, “Powerful people, whether they intend for it to happen or not, find that “a court” of sorts rises up around them. Suddenly people want to serve them. People want to run errands for them. Something happens and people look to see how that person is responding, and they respond accordingly. It happens to powerful people, popular people, and famous people. And it’s not the powerful, popular, or famous person’s fault. It’s simply human nature.”

She also mentioned the time when her friend was named CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Her friend asked the previous CEO what to expect in his new position. To this, her friend said, “Your jokes are about to get funnier.” This was a clear example of the evolution of a court where those around you will more likely agree than challenge your ideas.

Sandra then contrasts how Jesus would respond to this “evolution of a court:”

“Apparently, Jesus saw this coming. He certainly experienced it. And, he made it clear how leaders should respond. Jesus continually emphasized the importance of humility. He instructed his disciples to serve rather than be served. Toward the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus demonstrated humility in a way his followers would never forget. As he gathered them to celebrate Passover, he assumed the role of a servant and washed their feet. This was awkward, to say the least. So awkward that Peter initially refused. Jesus concluded his demonstration by saying, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” I think it’s safe to say Jesus resisted the evolution of a court.”

To my fellow leaders, pastors, and ministers, this is a real thing, especially in a very honoring culture like the Philippines. People we serve will feel indebted or grateful. And that’s not a bad thing in and of itself. But how we respond will spell the difference between leaders who have become celebrities and leaders who are truly servants.