Walking in the Light: Our True Identity in Christ

In our journey of faith, one of the most profound challenges is aligning our lives with the identity that Christ calls us to embody. The apostle John offers a powerful reminder about the authenticity of our faith in his writings. To live in Christ means to live in truth, love, and obedience. This article explores how we can embrace our true identity in Christ and avoid the pitfalls of living with a "fake ID."

We All Know “That Person”

Growing up, many of us wanted to believe we were more mature than we actually were. Shame of you if this was the case, but some of us need even more grace because we took our desire to do so to a whole ‘notha level. We went in search of the holy grail of hostility and shenanigans. Yes, I’m speaking of…the FAKE ID!! This “amazing” piece of false equiment would guarantee you cigarettes, six packs, and situations that you had 0 business being a part of! We accessed things that we could partake in (here’s the word) prematurely, and no matter how worth it it seemed many who had one expressed real resentment for using it and the consequences that came if that got caught. 

Ultimately, the lesson learned is that we needed time to grow and mature before we really understood what we were engaging in and how to do so correctly. The same thing can be said for how we grow in our relationship with Christ. Many want to walk fully in Faith, but far too many times aren’t obedient in the maturity of it; the way Christ lived it. And instead of taking the time to learn, grow, and mature they simply pick and choose the things they want to operate in most. All grace, no truth. Allll truth, no grace. No matter how they do it, they operate immaturely. In this way, they don’t fully mature. They use a fake ID. And doing this can…and usually will…have consequences.

Living in the Light

John's epistle emphasizes the importance of living in the light of Christ. "If anyone claims, 'I am living in the light,' but hates a fellow believer, that person is still living in darkness" (1 John 2:9). The metaphor of light and darkness illustrates the stark difference between genuine faith and falsehood. Living in the light means embracing love AND truth (if you can’t say amen, say ouch!), reflecting Christ's nature in all of our actions and relationships. When we harbor hatred or animosity towards others, we stray into darkness, away from the true light of Christ.

We have…a fake…ID.

The call to love one another is not new; it is a commandment we have had from the very beginning. Yet, it remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. By living in the light, we ensure that our actions do not cause others to stumble, thereby fostering a community that thrives on love and mutual respect.

The Dangers of a Fake ID

The concept of a "fake ID" serves as a metaphor for claiming to be a follower of Christ without embodying His teachings. Just as a fake ID is used to gain premature access to privileges, claiming to know God without obeying His commandments is deceptive and harmful. John warns, "If someone claims, 'I know God,' but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth" (1 John 2:4).

And though many believers are well-intentioned and I have no doubt they are, myself included, we might fall into the trap of immaturity in their faith. We might profess faith but fail to live it out. This is never good, but ultimately it damages our witness! The maturity in faith requires a deep commitment to following Christ's teachings and living as He did. This means continuous growth, learning, and transformation, reflecting Christ in every aspect of our lives.

The Power of Obedience

Obedience to God's commandments is a true measure of our love for Him. John asserts, "But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him" (1 John 2:5). Obedience is not just about following rules; it is about aligning our hearts and actions with God's will.

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of living out the commandments through His teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. The entire first chapter of the sermon, chapter 5 (remember, there are three altogether. My bet is He was taking this kinda serious ;-)), Jesus expresses everything from being peacemakers to loving our enemies, laying out a comprehensive guide to living a life that honors God. Obedience to these teachings is a testament to our faith and a crucial aspect of our true identity in Christ. If Jesus actually meant what He said (here’s a hint. He DOES), then many of us have some correcting to do in how we approach and love our neighbor…and God. (If you can’t say amen aga…you get the point.)

Building a Community of Love

The ultimate goal of living in Christ is to build a community rooted in love and unity. Jesus prayed for this unity in John 17, desiring that all believers be one as He and the Father are one. This unity is not about sameness but about oneness, a harmonious relationship built on love and mutual respect in the midst of difference; unity in diversity.

The enemy often tries to drive a wedge into this unity by promoting a false sense of identity, where actions do not align with the professed faith. To counter this, we must strive to live authentically, reflecting Christ's love in our interactions. By doing so, we create a community that embodies the true light of Christ, standing as a testament to His transformative power.

Embracing our true identity in Christ requires living in the light, avoiding the pitfalls of a fake ID, obeying God's commandments, and fostering a loving community. Committing to these principles, ensuring that our lives reflect the truth and love of Christ, thereby fulfills our highest potential in Him. Amen to being “grown” enough to not have the need for a fake ID.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

The Great Exchange: Discovering Our Identity in Christ

In the tapestry of human existence, few moments resonate as profoundly as the encounter between Mary and Jesus at the crucifixion. As Jesus, in His final breaths, entrusted His mother to the care of His beloved disciple John, He performed an act of deep compassion and ensured a new identity for both Mary and John. This poignant moment captures the essence of the "Great Exchange" — a divine transaction where Jesus offers us a new identity, rooted in His love and sacrifice.

The Apostle John, who witnessed this exchange firsthand, illuminates this transformative truth in his writings. Known for his deep personal relationship with Jesus, John’s message in his first epistle revolves around the identity shift we undergo when we embrace Christ. John, a man who experienced the fullness of Jesus’ ministry, from the miracles to the resurrection, urges us to understand and live out our new identity in Christ.

The Dual Nature of Jesus

John’s firsthand account is not just a historical record but a personal testimony of encountering Jesus as both fully divine and fully human. This dual nature of Christ is crucial. Jesus, the “Word of life,” was with God from the beginning and yet entered our world, taking on human flesh. John emphasizes this to counteract the false teachings of his time, such as Gnosticism, which denied the humanity of Christ.

By affirming Jesus’ humanity, John underscores the tangible reality of God’s love. Jesus was not a distant deity but one who walked among us, shared in our experiences, and ultimately sacrificed Himself for our sins. This reality invites us into an intimate relationship with God, bridging the chasm between the divine and the human.

Walking in the Light

John’s message is clear: to know God is to walk in the light. God is light, and in Him, there is no darkness at all. This light represents truth, purity, and life. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this light in our daily lives. Walking in the light means living in a way that aligns with God’s truth, acknowledging our sins, and allowing Jesus’ sacrificial blood to continually cleanse us.

Confession and repentance are vital in maintaining this walk. John warns against self-deception, urging us to confront our sins honestly. When we acknowledge our need for forgiveness, God, who is faithful and just, cleanses us from all unrighteousness. This ongoing process of cleansing is not about attaining sinlessness on our own but relying on Jesus, our advocate, who pleads our case before the Father.

The Transformative Power of Jesus

The essence of John’s message is that knowing Jesus personally transforms us. It’s not merely about adhering to a set of beliefs but about a profound relationship with the living Christ. This relationship brings fullness of joy, a joy that surpasses all circumstances and challenges.

John’s life and writings challenge us to examine our own identity. Are we living as those who are deeply loved by Jesus? Do we reflect the light of Christ in our interactions and decisions? This identity shift requires us to commit to God and His people, to stop delaying obedience, and to embrace the transformation that comes from living in the truth of who Jesus is.

Our New Identity

To live in this new identity, we must first submit to God’s transforming work in our lives. This begins with prayer, allowing God’s Word to shape us, and connecting deeply with His people. As we do this, we experience the fullness of joy that John speaks of — a joy rooted in the assurance of our salvation and the reality of our intimate relationship with God.

As we go about our lives, let us remember that we carry the light of Christ within us. This light is meant to shine in the darkest places, bringing hope and truth to a world in desperate need. By living out our identity in Christ, we not only find our own joy but also draw others into the transformative power of Jesus’ love.

John’s message is both a reminder and a call to action. It reminds us of the profound love and sacrifice of Jesus, which gives us a new identity, and it calls us to live out this identity with joy, integrity, and purpose. Let us embrace this great exchange and walk boldly in the light of Christ, knowing that we are deeply loved and called to share that love with the world.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Like Son, Like Mother: Something About Mary

Introduction: The Unusual Suspect

Ah, Mother's Day. A time to celebrate the unsung heroes who brought us into this world and, despite everything, didn't leave us in a basket at the neighbor's doorstep...or take us out. And in this moment, I believe it only right that we dive into the story of the most famous mother of all—Mary, the mother of Jesus. Aside from being mom to the Savior of the world, there's also a very important lesson I believe we must take from her. 

The Angelic Encounter

Picture this: Mary is minding her own business when Gabriel, the angel, pops in with a life-changing announcement (Luke 1:26-30). Now, I don't know about you, but if an angel appeared to me, I'm out! (Just not quite that holy yet. Don't judge me.) But not Mary! Sure, she was "confused and disturbed" (which is angelic-speak for "freaking out"), but she listened. Gabriel assured her that she was favored by God and would give birth to the Son of God. Her response? "How can this happen? I am a virgin." (Luke 1:34). Classic Mary—straight to the point.

Mary: The Ideal Follower

What makes Mary remarkable isn't just her virgin birth claim. It's her faith and obedience. When Gabriel explained how the Holy Spirit would make this miracle happen, Mary simply said, "I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true" (Luke 1:38). Talk about faith under pressure! Imagine if you were told you'd give birth to the Son of God. I can see many folk's response right now. "...Let me pray on that..." with no intentions on getting back to him. Congrats on having that good a prayer life...except no LOL.

Blessed Among Women

Fast forward a few days, and Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, who declares Mary "blessed among women" (Luke 1:42). Elizabeth's baby even leaps in her womb at Mary's greeting. That's right—Mary's voice was the original baby dance party starter. But why was Mary blessed? Not just because she was Jesus' mom, but because she believed God's promise (Luke 1:45). It's a reminder that faith, not just motherhood, brings blessings.

Followership Over Circumstance

Contrast Mary with Zechariah, who also had a divine encounter. When Gabriel told him he’d have a son, Zechariah's response was more like, "Yeah, right. Have you seen my age? Don't even get me started on my wife!!" (Luke 1:18). I'd say pray for good ol' Zeke, but chances are Elizabeth never heard him say it so he's good. However, his skepticism earned him a divine time-out—mute until his son John was born. Mary, on the other hand, questioned logistics but ultimately trusted God. The lesson here? Faith isn't about understanding every detail but simply trusting in God's plan.

Conclusion: Like Son, Like Mother

Mary's story isn't just about being the mother of Jesus; it's about being a model of faith and obedience. She shows us that true followership is about saying, "I am the Lord's servant," even when the future is uncertain. May we celebrate the faith of Mary and strive to follow her example of trust and devotion. After all, like Son, like mother.

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For more insights and reflections, stay tuned to our blog and join us in our weekly services.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

The Divine Pattern: Embracing Followership in Christ

In the rhythm of life, there’s a profound pattern woven into the fabric of our existence—a pattern that reflects not just our actions, but the heart and spirit driving them. This pattern is one of followership, a concept deeply embedded in the essence of Christianity. To be a follower of Christ isn’t merely about adhering to rules; it’s about embodying a way of life that transforms every aspect of our being, especially our hands, hearts, and heads. Imagine a life so captivated by a mission that it changes the core of who you are. This is the life of a true Christian, whose existence is radically altered by the gospel, the power of God unto salvation.

The gospel isn't just a historical account; it's a dynamic force, actively reshaping us from the inside out, rendering self-help strategies and temporary fixes insufficient. The centrality of Jesus in our lives empowers us to overcome the habits and behaviors that tether us to our old selves. But what does it truly mean to follow Christ? It means embracing a life of imitation, where every step we take is a step closer to the example set by Jesus. This journey of imitation is not about losing our identity but finding our true selves in the reflection of Christ. In the early church, as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles, we see a vibrant community of believers who lived out this radical transformation. They were a people marked by a profound commitment to the teachings of Jesus, engaging deeply with each other in fellowship, worship, and prayer. The pivotal event of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit was poured out, illustrates the transformative power available to every believer. This wasn’t just a momentary event; it was the beginning of a new era in which the presence of God was intimately woven into the daily lives of His people.

The Holy Spirit didn’t just empower them for supernatural acts but enabled them to live out the gospel in practical, everyday ways. To follow Jesus means to engage in a community that mirrors the early church’s practices—devoted to teaching, to fellowship, to breaking of bread, and to prayer. It’s about a life lived in joyful obedience and heartfelt surrender, where our actions are not driven by duty but by love. In this life of followership, every Christian is called to be both a follower and a leader—leading by example. As we imitate Christ, we also become models for others, just as Paul urged his followers to imitate him as he imitated Christ. This chain of imitation forms a beautiful tapestry of discipleship that stretches across time and culture, continuing to grow and expand the kingdom of God. Yet, in our journey, we must be vigilant of the "imitation breakdown," where our lives no longer reflect the vibrant followership they are meant to. This breakdown is evident when our actions do not align with the teachings of Jesus, when our communities lack the unity and love prescribed in Scripture, and when our missions lose their grounding in the gospel. The call to Christian followership is a call to active engagement in the world, not as passive observers but as dynamic participants in God's redemptive plan. It is about making the teachings of Jesus tangible and real in every interaction and every relationship. By living out this call, we not only transform ourselves but also the world around us, making the kingdom of God visible and accessible to all who seek it.

To follow Christ is to enter into a life of profound transformation and purpose, a life that continually seeks to reflect the image of Jesus in every thought, word, and deed. It is a journey of constant growth, guided by the Holy Spirit, and rooted in the community of believers—driven not by mere human ambition, but by the divine calling to live out the love and truth of the gospel.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Jesus the Lead Follower: Embodying Perfect Followership

In a world that often exalts leadership as the ultimate goal, the biblical narrative invites us to consider a more profound archetype of influence and authority—Jesus, the Lead Follower. This perspective is not only countercultural but also foundational for understanding the dynamics of true leadership as modeled by Christ Himself.

The Paradigm of Followership

Jesus’ life exemplifies perfect followership, characterized by an unwavering submission to the will of the Father. From His humble obedience to His mother at Cana to His spiritual fortitude in the wilderness, Jesus consistently demonstrated that His actions were in direct response to the Father’s leading. This submission was not a sign of weakness; rather, it was the ultimate display of strength and commitment to the mission of God.

Leading by Following

The gospel of John provides profound insights into Jesus' followership, particularly in John 5:16-30. Here, Jesus heals on the Sabbath, which stirs controversy among the religious leaders. His response is telling: He openly acknowledges His actions as flowing from the Father’s will, asserting, "The Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing" (John 5:19). This declaration is not merely theological; it is a practical blueprint for all who aspire to lead. Jesus confirms that true leadership is contingent upon faithful followership.

The Good Shepherd

Further exploring the theme of followership, Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10. This metaphor extends beyond mere care and guidance. It encapsulates the essence of sacrificial leadership—laying down one’s life for the sheep. Here, followership and leadership converge in the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. Jesus does not lead from a position of detached authority but from deep involvement and commitment to the well-being of His flock, those who know Him and are known by Him.

Implications for Today’s Leaders

For those called to lead in various capacities, Jesus’ model presents a radical shift from conventional leadership paradigms. Leadership, according to Jesus, is not about asserting one’s will but about aligning one’s actions with a higher purpose. It is about leading from a place of obedience and service, not for personal gain but for the collective good.

A Call to Action

As followers of Christ, we are invited to embody this model of "leading by following." This involves a continuous commitment to discern and align with God’s will, a readiness to serve rather than be served, and a heart oriented towards the needs of others before our own. By doing so, we not only honor the example set by Christ but also contribute to a legacy of godly leadership that can transform lives and communities.

In essence, Jesus’ life challenges us to reconsider our notions of influence and authority. By embracing His example of perfect followership, we discover the true heart of leadership and the path to making a lasting impact in our world and in the local church.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Embracing True Leadership: Lessons from David, the Shepherd King

Leadership and followership are often seen as contrasting roles, yet in the spiritual journey, they are intrinsically linked, reflecting a profound biblical truth: to lead effectively, one must first learn to follow faithfully. This concept is beautifully exemplified in the life of David, a man after God’s own heart and a pivotal figure in the biblical narrative. David’s journey from a humble shepherd boy to the king of Israel is not merely a tale of ascension to power; it's a testament to his devoted followership and leadership under God’s guidance. His life offers crucial lessons on spiritual leadership that are still relevant to us today.

The Call to Follow

David's story begins with a divine summons. Unlike King Saul, who was outwardly impressive, David was chosen for his heart — his capacity to follow God. This choice underscores a critical lesson: God values our internal disposition more than our external qualifications. David was called to follow God, which was the first step toward his leadership. His journey reminds us that effective leadership in God's kingdom starts with a humble and obedient heart towards God.

The Heart of a Follower

Throughout his life, David demonstrated what it means to be a committed follower. His psalms, like the beloved Psalm 23, express deep reliance on and devotion to God. These were not just poetic words; they were reflections of his lived experience. From facing Goliath to evading King Saul’s attempts on his life, David consistently sought God’s guidance. His leadership was born out of these acts of faithful followership.

Followership in Action

David’s life as a follower and leader was marked by service and sacrifice. He served King Saul, even when Saul pursued him out of jealousy. He respected God’s anointing on Saul, illustrating his understanding that true leadership means respecting God’s order, even under duress. David’s eventual kingship was characterized by his role as a ‘nagid’ — the Hebrew word for ‘a ruler under God’s authority.’ This term captures the essence of his leadership style: ruling by following God.

Modern Implications

What does David’s model of leadership mean for us today? In a world that often values appearance and charisma over character, David’s life challenges us to rethink leadership. It’s not about being at the forefront or seeking personal glory. Instead, it’s about following God devotedly and leading others by example. This perspective is particularly crucial in church settings but is equally applicable in our personal lives and workplaces.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Embracing Followership: The Lessons from Moses and Beyond

In a world where leadership often takes the spotlight, the true essence of leadership is sometimes obscured by the glare of charisma, power, and personal achievement. However, as Christians, our approach to leadership—especially within the church—should be profoundly different. It is not merely about leading but about following. This concept of "followership," as emphasized currently by The Multiply Family of Churches, draws from the biblical narratives of figures like Moses to redefine what true leadership looks like.

Moses: A Portrait of Biblical Followership

The story of Moses is a compelling illustration of followership that transcends the traditional boundaries of leadership. From his initial days in the Egyptian palace to his eventual role as the deliverer of Israel, Moses’ journey is a testament to the fact that God prepares leaders through a path of faithful following.

Moses, despite his royal upbringing and access to the best of everything, chose to align himself with the suffering of his people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin (Hebrews 11:25-26). This decision marked the beginning of his transformation—a transformation that was not about rising to power in Egypt, but about learning to be a humble follower of God. His eventual escape to Midian, far from being a demotion, was a divine strategy to prepare him for greater responsibilities. In the quiet years of tending sheep, Moses learned patience, humility, and reliance on God—qualities that would define his leadership.

Followership in the Face of Modern Leadership Crisis

Today, the church faces a leadership crisis marked by a shortage of pastors and a changing religious landscape. We must face the stark reality: there are millions of churches around the world but not enough pastors, which puts the effectiveness of church ministries at risk. This crisis calls for a radical return to the principles of biblical followership where leadership is first an act of following God.

The local church, especially in organizations like Multiply, is a vibrant arena for practicing this biblical principle. By prioritizing the needs of the community and aligning with God's vision, churches can model a leadership style that is less about authority and more about service. This shift is crucial in a time when churches are increasingly regulated and challenged by societal changes.

The Theological Imperative of Followership

Theologically, the principle of followership aligns with the nature of God’s glory. God crafts leaders not to showcase their glory but to manifest His own through their lives. Moses’ life underscores this, as his leadership was clearly a testament to God’s power and not his own capabilities. The miracles in Egypt, from the plagues to the crossing of the Red Sea, were divine acts that no human leader, regardless of their charisma or skill, could replicate.

Furthermore, followership addresses the problem of longevity in ministry. The rapid turnover of pastors could be mitigated by cultivating a culture of followership. Leaders who see themselves primarily as followers of Christ are more likely to endure the pressures of ministry because their focus remains on God, not on their personal strength or public image.

Practical Steps Towards Effective Followership

For individuals wondering how to apply these principles in their lives, the call is to focus on followership. This means seeking a deeper relationship with God and allowing that relationship to influence all areas of life. Whether one is a church leader, a business professional, or a teacher, the quality of their leadership should be measured by how they are following Christ. The narrative of Moses teaches us that the environment where we find ourselves, no matter how humble or unexpected, is the training ground for divine purposes. Moses might have thought his life was off course when he ended up at a desert well, but in reality, it was the exact preparation he needed for what was to come.

Conclusion

The journey of followership is about embracing the places and situations God places us in, learning from them, and preparing ourselves for the roles He has ordained for us. As the Apostle Paul aptly put it, our call is to "follow me as I follow Christ." This model not only ensures a healthy leadership dynamic in the church but also fosters a community where the glory of God is the focal point of all endeavors.

Through the story of Moses it's clear that when we shift our focus from being leaders to being followers, we unlock the true potential of leadership as God intended. This paradigm shift can bring about a transformation in the church, marked by resilience, humility, and a deeper communion with God.

— Nic Lombardi

Pastor: The Grace Collective

The Art of Following Through: Lessons from Michael Jordan and Abraham

In the world of sports, Michael Jordan is a legend not just for his skill, but for his unparalleled commitment to excellence. One of the most notable aspects of his game was his ability to "follow through" on his shots, a technique that ensured his actions were carried out with intention and precision, leading to unmatched success on the basketball court. He did this so well that actually shot free throws once with his eyes closed during a game in 1991. And as amazing, competitive, and slightly disrespectful as this is, there's a very valuable lesson that we as believers should take from this: 

This concept of follow-through can extend far beyond the hardwood, serving as a powerful metaphor for commitment and persistence in our spiritual lives.

The biblical story of Abraham serves as a profound example of spiritual follow-through. In Hebrews 11:8-10, we see Abraham, called by God to leave his home without knowing where he was going, responding with unwavering faith. Abraham's journey was not just a physical relocation but a testament to the essence of true followership – a concept deeply rooted in the Christian faith and highlighted through the practice of following Jesus' call to "Come, follow me..." (Matt. 4:19).

In 1988, Robert Kelley introduced the concept of "followership," emphasizing the role of followers in shaping leadership and organizational outcomes. This perspective is crucial in the church's context, where the dynamic between leaders and followers transcends mere obedience to co-create the future through mutual engagement and faith.

Abraham's trial, as detailed in Genesis 22, underscores the essence of followership through his readiness to obey God's command to sacrifice his son Isaac. This narrative is not just about Abraham's willingness to follow God's instruction but also about his unwavering faith in God's provision. His actions, driven by obedience and trust, exemplify the depth of commitment required in our walk with God.

Following through, as Abraham did, involves more than mere compliance; it is about actively engaging in the process of faith, even when the path ahead is unclear. It requires us to lay down our "Isaacs" - our most treasured possessions, dreams, and even our future (just to turn up the intensity, I'll add that we may be asked to lay them down even if it seems God promised them to us Himself!) - trusting that God's plans for us are greater than anything we can imagine.  

Bible and theology professors Rick Langer and Joanne Jung argue that leadership is rooted in followership, suggesting that to lead well, one must first follow well first. Abraham's story illustrates this beautifully. Despite the potential loss of his son, he descended the mountain not with sorrow, but with the assurance of God's promise to make him the father of many nations (Gen. 22:18).

This narrative challenges us to examine our own lives: What is our "Isaac" that we need to lay on the altar? Are we prepared to follow through with the worship and sacrifice God is asking of us? Michael Jordan's follow-through on the basketball court was a result of discipline, practice, and commitment. Similarly, our spiritual follow-through requires us to act with intention, guided by faith and obedience, understanding that true followership is the foundation upon which leadership and purpose are built.

In conclusion, whether on the basketball court or in our spiritual journey, the principle of follow-through is crucial. It's about completing what we've started, trusting in the process, and believing in the promise of what lies ahead. Like Abraham, let us be remembered not just for the steps we've taken, but for how we faithfully followed through, even when the path was uncertain.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Called to Follow: Abraham

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the new [Multiply] blog!

Our first blog series is titled “Called to Follow” and supplements the current preaching series at the [Multiply] churches!

Churches are constantly talking about leadership, but how often do we consider the importance of followership? 

Have you ever thought about what it means to be a great follower, especially in your church community? 

Well, that's what we're going to explore here together over the next several weeks.

The term followership may not be a normal part of our everyday vocabulary, yet its significance is profound. 

Historical leadership studies have largely fixated on the notion of innate leadership qualities, epitomized by theories such as the “Great Man Theory." However, Robert Kelley introduced a pivotal shift in perspective by highlighting a frequently overlooked aspect: the follower. According to Kelley, our personal and church-related spheres are filled with followers whose contributions and significance we often neglect to acknowledge.

Followership critically examines the symbiotic relationship between leaders and followers, asserting that successful leadership is a collaborative endeavor. This perspective is especially relevant to our churches, echoing Jesus's invitation to His disciples: "Come, follow me." Thus, at the core of Christianity is the call to follow.

Effective followership transcends mere obedience. It entails:

• a deep-seated commitment to our collective mission,

• a fervent enthusiasm for our faith, 

• and a proactive engagement in the church's endeavors. 

It is about cultivating a community that learns, grows, and actively disseminates Jesus's teachings.

ABRAHAM

In our exploration of followership within a biblical context, we turn our attention to one of the most important figures in the Judeo-Christian tradition: Abraham. Abraham's journey, as detailed in Genesis, offers profound insights into the essence of true followership and its implications for our understanding of leadership, faith, and obedience to God's calling.

Abraham, originally called Abram, stands as a great example of faith and followership in the biblical narrative. His story begins with a divine call to leave his homeland, his people, and his father's house for a land that God promises to show him (Genesis 12:1). This moment marks a pivotal point not only in Abraham's life but also in the history of followership as it pertains to our faith tradition. Abraham's response to God's call embodies the core attributes of followership: 

1. deference to authority, 

2. zeal for the mission, 

3. and an unwavering commitment to follow, despite uncertain outcomes.

Abraham's followership is characterized by his readiness to listen and his willingness to act on God's commands without full knowledge of where it would lead him. This leap of faith is a testament to his trust in God's promise and his role as a follower. His journey reflects a relational dynamic between leader and follower that is not based on blind obedience but on trust, dialogue, and mutual respect. God's promise to make Abraham a great nation, bless him, and make his name great (Genesis 12:2) is contingent upon Abraham's active participation in this covenant relationship.

Moreover, Abraham's followership is not passive but active and dynamic. It involves making difficult decisions, such as the decision to leave his homeland and later, to agree to sacrifice his son Isaac, a test of faith that epitomizes the depth of his commitment to follow God's will (Genesis 22). These acts of faith and obedience highlight the complexity of followership, which entails both internal conviction and external action.

Abraham's journey also illuminates the concept of followership multiplication, a principle that is as relevant today as it was in biblical times. Through his willingness to follow, Abraham becomes the father of nations, and his followership catalyzes a chain of events that shapes the trajectory of biblical history. His story is a powerful reminder that the impact of true followership extends far beyond the individual, contributing to a larger narrative and mission.

CONCLUSION

In reflecting on Abraham's example, we are invited to reconsider our own approach to followership within our communities and our personal faith journeys. Abraham teaches us that followership is foundational to leadership, that trust and obedience are paramount, and that the path of followership is one marked by challenges, growth, and profound rewards.

As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of biblical followership, let us draw inspiration from Abraham's example, embracing the call to follow with courage, faith, and a heart open to where the journey might lead us. Abraham's story is not just a testament to his faith; it is a guiding light for all who seek to navigate the complex interplay between leading and following in a world that desperately needs both.

WHAT’S NEXT

Throughout this series, we will delve into biblical narratives showcasing the followership of figures such as Moses, David, and Paul, illustrating how their followership informed their leadership. Additionally, we will explore practical avenues for cultivating impactful followership within our own churches and daily lives.

We are thrilled to embark on this journey with you, exploring the transformative potential of followership in enriching our church life and deepening our connection with Jesus. Keep an eye out for our next installment, where we will further unpack the concept of followership and its pivotal role in our collective faith journey. Let us engage in this learning process together, aspiring to follow faithfully and lead in a manner that glorifies God.

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Robert E. Kelley, “In Praise of Followers,” Harvard Business Review. Volume 66, Number 6 (November 1988).

Richard Langer and Joanne J. Jung. The Call to Follow: Hearing Jesus in a Culture Obsessed with Leadership. Crossway, 2022.

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— AAron Dininny

[Multiply] Executive Director