Dave’s Monday Blast – November 6, 2017

Last week was the 500 – year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. When Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses on the Wittenberg Church door a great controversy ensued that ultimately split the church and a new era of Christianity was ushered in. What prompted Luther to take on the established Church? It was a courageous, risky decision.

What kind of leader summons this kind of courage? Professor Daniel Gluck of William Jessup University comments, “I suspect Luther acted not out of desire to start a movement, but because staying quiet would have compromised his integrity. As the old adage emphasizes – ‘silence is tacit approval'”.

Biblically INTENTIONAL men know that it does take courage to lead. Stephen Carter, in his book Integrity, affirms this truth, but says that courage comes from integrity. He goes on to suggest that integrity requires 3 things of the leader:

1. Discern what is right and wrong – Luther saw a great disconnect between scriptural teaching and church practice. This proved especially problematic in an era where only priests had access to biblical texts.

2. Act on what they believe, even at personal cost – Luther, after refusing to recant his beliefs, was excommunicated from his beloved Catholic church by Pope Leo X on January 3, 1521.

3. Say openly that they are acting on their understanding of right and wrong – After Luther’s removal, when ordered to defend himself at the Diet of Worms, he stood strong under immense pressure, saying…”I cannot and will not recant anything, since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. May God help me. Amen.”

Taking a stand involves great risk. Like Luther, leaders do well to pursue counsel, pray earnestly and seek to honor God-given authority. Certain moments, however, require the great courage to stand. And occasionally, such valor changes history.

Professor Gluck challenges us with these two questions: Do I, as a leader seek God’s Word, His Spirit, and Godly counsel in ethical decision making? Are there any areas where I currently need to take a stand for truth?