Though God never instituted a human monarchy to govern His people, He did appoint leaders—not kings, but servants. His desire has never been for men to dominate others, but to serve under His authority. Throughout the New Testament, we see the pattern of leadership that God establishes in His Church. It is never built on hierarchy for its own sake, but on service, sacrifice, and spiritual maturity.
In Ephesians 4:11–12, Paul writes, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” These roles—often referred to as the Five-Fold Ministry—were not given to elevate individuals, but to equip the saints. Their purpose is to build up the body of Christ, not to control it. They are not titles of superiority, but functions of responsibility. And each operates under the headship of Christ, the one true King.
Elsewhere, Scripture speaks of elders and overseers—spiritual guardians who are to lead with wisdom, gentleness, and integrity. “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God…” Acts 20:28 . Paul also outlines the qualifications of such leaders in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1: they must be blameless, sober-minded, hospitable, able to teach, and not greedy or domineering. In short, they are to reflect Christ. This is not worldly leadership. It is not about lording over others. Jesus made this distinction clear when He said, “But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.” Luke 22:26.
God’s design for the Church is not the absence of leadership, but the absence of kingship—the kind that exalts a man above his brothers. Christ alone is the King. All others are servants, called to lead with humility and under His direction. Where there is no leadership, the Church drifts into confusion. But where leadership imitates Christ—marked by servanthood, accountability, and truth—the Church flourishes in unity and purpose. We are kings, yes—but only as those under the King of kings. We are priests—but only as those ministering under the great High Priest. Leadership in the Church is always by Christ, through Christ, and for Christ.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk