How can you wield and yield to authority in a healthy way? In Authority, Jonathan Leeman, author and editorial director for 9Marks, shares how godly rule protects the vulnerable, strengthens communities, and promotes human flourishing.
Leeman writes that to have authority is to be an author—authoring a life of flourishing, trust, and freedom in others. When authority is exercised correctly, it teaches us to see what God is like. All of us have God’s word to see how God perfectly administers his authority, and we’ve seen examples of good and bad authority on earth.
Leeman admits the tension of authority of balancing truth and justice with mercy and compassion, especially in the Christian understanding of the subject. He relates this to God’s immanence and transcendence. Humans in authority need to find a way to balance both. Leeman calls this authority-in-redemption.
The book also, maybe surprisingly, studies submission. But the juxtaposition is important as they are the two sides of the same coin. As humans, we are most ourselves when we learn to be submissive. Submission provides a pathway to growth, rule, and authority.
Command and Counsel
Leeman presents five principles on how good authority works. I was most motivated to read that authority is neither permissive nor authoritarian, but rather, it administers discipline. In other words, discipline is the power of authority. Applying this principle as a parent, I hope to show kindness through predictable outcomes, as well as provide an environment of encouragement and affirmation.
The second half of the book examines what good authority looks like in action. Leeman explains the two types of authority: command and counsel. The authority of command has the right to enforce through discipline, while the authority of counsel does not.
Interestingly, both husbands and elders fall under the category of the authority to counsel. Practically, husbands and elders should use appealing language more than commanding words. This type of authority acts as a much lighter hand, operates through trust and relationship, and is earned. Furthermore, it is patient, plays the long game, respects those they lead as their equals, and is quick to forego rights.
An Outstanding Theology on Authority
I took personal encouragement in the examination of elders. They have authority over the interpretation and teaching of the Bible that is exercised by an elders’ teaching. As a preacher and teacher, I am encouraged to submit my life to God as I strive to share his Word.
Filled with real-life illustrations and personal testimony, and written with winsome wisdom, Authority is an outstanding theology on authority. It is much needed today and will be an anchor for the future.
I received a media copy of Authority, and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram – my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.