In the world, leaders are frequently put on a pedestal. They are looked up to, given preferential treatment. Others work to support their vision.
In the church, leaders are often put on a pedestal too. So-called apostles and prophets have business cards. They are highly visible on the rooftops. But according to the New Testament, apostles and prophets are foundations (Ephesians 2:20). You don't see foundations. They are essential for the stability and safety of the building, but foundations are trodden on. There's no glory in being a foundation.
Paul said this about apostles and prophets:
" Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor’s parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world—to people and angels alike.
Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools, but you claim to be so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are so powerful! You are honored, but we are ridiculed. Even now we go hungry and thirsty, and we don’t have enough clothes to keep warm. We are often beaten and have no home. We work wearily with our own hands to earn our living. We bless those who curse us. We are patient with those who abuse us. We appeal gently when evil things are said about us. Yet we are treated like the world’s garbage, like everybody’s trash—right up to the present moment." (1 Corinthians 4:9-13)
Who wants to be an apostle?
Subscribe to Get Simply Church Updates
Join our mailing list to get occasional updates from me!