A prophet speaks truth clearly, compellingly. A faithful prophet speaks God's truth faithfully.
A priest cares for people deeply. A faithful prophet is an advocate for his/her people before God.
A king rules with care and wisdom. A faithful king uses structures and systems to make life better for those under his umbrella of leadership.
Autobiographically speaking, being a prophet came first--I was speaking truth pretty well as a teenager. Being a priest came second--about a decade ago I found myself caring for people in ways I never had before. But this king-thing. I'm still waiting on that part. Actually, I've made great strides--by God's grace. But I don't want to get bogged down in my own junk.
I want to share something that has really struck me powerfully in the last few weeks.
If we'll lead well, like a great king--making life better for those we serve--it will be easier for them to believe we care for them deeply, and then they will be even more open to hearing the truth of God's word.
But if the folks under our care struggle with logistics, or are distracted by practical oversights, then it may never occur to them that we care and they may never get to the place where they are able to hear us speak life-changing truth. So leaders, let's manage time well, communicate logistics clearly, consider how our choices affect their "day-to-day" lives.
Young leaders, don't just live in the part of this triad that comes easily. Pursue all three. Surround yourself with people who can both compensate for the ways you aren't yet developed and who will help you grow into all the roles.
Oh, a word of hope might be helpful here, yes?
Jesus was and is the perfect and complete manifestation of Prophet, Priest, and King. That's only half of the good news. The rest?
According to the letter Paul wrote to the church in Galatia, your old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer you who live, but Christ lives in you... as Prophet, as Priest and as King. Hallelujah!
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