Leadership through Discipleship #1

Peter – The Power of Submission

Among the disciples, Peter is probably the most outstanding and outspoken of the disciples. He appears to be impetuous in his actions and quick to offer his opinions. From the Biblical record he appears to have a classic leadership temperament. However, before he can be a powerful leader he must learn the act of submission.

Jesus sees his natural abilities. He also sees his innate weaknesses. Jesus calls Peter based not on who he is but who he can become. The Lord sees the pent up potential in prospective disciples and challenges the followers to realize and release the power within through the process of change. From the first meeting of Jesus and Simon there was an intentional training program prepared for this would-be disciple. “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas,” was the challenge Jesus presented. Until this encounter he was Simon. Jesus implied that he would become a rock, a solid leader in the emerging church.

There is evidence of both growth and failures throughout the life of Peter after this occasion. He was commended and corrected. He was congratulated and cautioned. When Jesus questioned His disciples concerning His true identity it was Peter who suddenly confessed, “You are the Christ!” Jesus commended him and gave him the keys of authority in a newly defined community of believers saying, “On this rock I will build my church!” (Matthew 16:15-19).

Perhaps Peter was feeling arrogant or overconfident in his newly granted position of leadership. In just a few verses Jesus revealed His plan to suffer and die in Jerusalem and to rise again in three days, Peter rebuked Jesus and said, “This shall not happen to You!” The responding condemnation was quick and pointed. Jesus said, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to me, for you are not mindful of the things of God.” Peter had to learn that true authority is always subject to direction from God.

You can never be your own authority. In order to lead you must continue to follow. You must always be submitted to another. The principle of leadership Jesus taught Peter was submission. He learned it and he taught it. (See 2 Peter 5:1-6.) This is the fulfillment of the commission, disciples go and teach and make disciples. That is the secret to effective leadership and the secret to the irresistible growth of the Gospel of Christ.