Instead of a rational framework, I want to present our vision in terms of boundaries. Some of it is in layers. There’s no way I can cover everything that might arise as we move forward in this vision, but there are some things that I know already from experience.
The first layer must be the fire of faith. Anyone who manifests that so we can see it will be qualified to lead in some way. This is the core of the covenant family. These are the people who have learned not to get in the Lord’s way working in their lives. They’ll do whatever it takes to please Him.
The next layer is not what you might expect. Given that I am the elder, the issue is not agreeing with me, but agreeing to tolerate my leadership. It’s hardly flawless. I expect a certain amount of dissent from everyone. To be honest, sycophants are repulsive. Children are supposed to be like that, but not adults. I’ve encountered a few in my life and it always gave me the willies. Operationally, the issue is not agreeing with me, but a willingness to play along. That was what I gave when I wasn’t in charge, and I hope to receive it in return now that I am in charge. Respectful dissent is not a hindrance.
At any time, you can always pull away and start your own work. No hard feelings. When God tells you that something in my leadership is not for you, either find another community or start one yourself. It’s no different from noticing that someone is geographically removed from you; that’s a parable of human differences. Go where the Lord leads you, and put down roots there. May He add to your blessings. Just don’t stick around and try to hijack things.
And some day my time will be done and I’ll pass the baton. I’m already planning on that, given my age (67). I’m already praying for the welfare of my successor; I’ll be looking for him to show himself when the time is right. It’s not meant to be trite: pastors are chosen, elders are grown.
And covenant families are grown, too. I’m not going to make rules. Christ’s Covenant provides a sort of law code for those who need training wheels. It starts with the Code of Noah, but there’s more to it than that. It’s what we offer those who haven’t yet developed to the point they can sense their own convictions. This is how I can extend my covering as shepherd over those who still don’t know who they are.
Clearly, this is not “rule of law”, but it’s also not “rule of men”. This is simply how God allows us to experience His reign in our lives.
