Jonathan Leeman's Authority (Part 1-3)

    Jonathan Leeman’s book Authority has profoundly reshaped my understanding of leadership, especially in the context of biblical authority. In the first three parts of the book, Leeman unpacks what true authority looks like and how it should be exercised in the home, church, and broader society. His writing is not only deeply theological but also intensely practical, offering transformative insights for anyone called to lead. Here’s how the first three parts of the book spoke to me personally and challenged me in my own life and ministry.

Authority as God’s Good Gift

In the opening chapter, “Authority Is God’s Good Creation Gift for Sharing His Rule and Glory,” Leeman shares the story of Angela and her father, a full-time pastor. This example moved me deeply. Angela's father lived out a powerful balance between immanence (being present and involved) and transcendence (exercising rightful authority and setting boundaries). He was always there—supportive, engaged, and loving. Yet, his authority was respected, not because he was harsh, but because it was rooted in consistent, fatherly love.

This story helped me reflect on my own ministry journey, especially during my early years on the Indo-Myanmar border, where I was working on Bible translation. Wanting to be humble and helpful, I often took on tasks like sweeping and cleaning, hoping to lead by example. However, over time, I noticed my leadership role as a supervisor began to weaken. My colleagues started to see me more as a peer than a leader. A gentle comment from my manager opened my eyes: “They take advantage of your kindness.” Now, after reading Leeman’s chapter, I understand why. I had leaned too far into immanence while neglecting the necessary weight of transcendence. Authority must be loving, but also firm and well-defined.

Authority That Lifts, Not Controls

In the chapter “Satan’s Sinister Scheme for Supplanting God,” Leeman tells the heartbreaking story of Amy, a woman wounded by her father, husband, and pastor. These were men who should have protected her, but instead misused their God-given authority. One sentence pierced my heart: “We place ourselves alongside God either by taking authority we have not been given or by misusing the authority we have been given.”

This truth made me re-evaluate how I use authority as a father, husband, and pastor. Leeman reminds us that authority is not for personal gain. Rather, it is to help others grow, to build up communities, and to reflect God’s nature. Authority that crushes or controls is not from God. Instead, godly leadership establishes boundaries while lifting people up. It made me ask, “Am I using my authority to protect and nurture or to assert control?”

Redemptive Authority and Gospel-Centered Leadership

Perhaps the most touching story in this section is that of Tammy and her husband, Tommy. Tammy, who had experienced deep brokenness, slowly found healing through Tommy’s patient, gospel-rooted leadership and the loving community of their church. This was a powerful portrait of redemptive authority—an authority that does not dominate but heals, transforms, and gives life.

This chapter challenged me to become a leader like Tommy and those healthy church leaders that Tammy attended. They reflect Jesus by stooping in love, lifting others up, and leading not through pressure, but through grace and truth. I want to be the kind of leader who embodies the gospel so clearly that those under my care feel safe, seen, and valued.  At the end of the chapter, Leeman includes a powerful testimony from Tammy. She shares how it was the beauty of the gospel, lived out through her church and husband, that changed her heart and allowed her to trust again. Her words reminded me that lasting change doesn’t come through force—it comes through love that reflects Christ.

My Personal Struggles with Leadership

While reading a story about a megachurch pastor who misused his authority, refusing to listen or accept correction, I was reminded of a painful season in my own life. Years ago, I served under a pastor who led through anger and fear. Meetings were filled with harsh words and criticism. I quietly disagreed with his style but never spoke up. Looking back, I now ask myself, did I unintentionally adopt some of those patterns in my own leadership?

This question stirs a holy fear in me. I want to lead well. I want to listen. I want to remain humble. One statement from Leeman struck me deeply: “It’s hard to say it loud enough: good authorities submit. If you cannot listen and follow, you should not lead. At all.” Leadership starts with submission—first to God, then to others. True authority listens, learns, and welcomes correction.

Key Takeaways: What Godly Authority Looks Like

Reading Authority by Jonathan Leeman (Parts 1–3) has helped me realize that true authority reflects God’s character. It is both immanent (present and loving) and transcendent (wise, firm, and boundary-setting).  Good authority never exists to serve itself but to bless others, helping them grow and flourish.  Redemptive authority is the most Christlike kind—one that stoops in love, forgives, and transforms hearts.  Submission and leadership are inseparable. A good leader is also a good follower.

Ultimately, this book has deeply challenged and encouraged me. Whether I’m serving at home as a father and husband or in the church as a pastor, I want to lead like Jesus.

I pray that more leaders would rise up!