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Authority |
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Authority |
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Friends are suspicious of authority based upon title or rank. The problem with hierarchy is that sometimes the carpenter from Nazareth knows more than the high priest in Jerusalem. In other words, sometimes the person granted a position to give orders would be better off listening to so-called subordinates. Among Friends, even the most highly regarded individuals have authority only when the Spirit of Christ is erupting through them. Among Friends, authority is not a rank to maintain, but a temporary state of grace available to all. This non-hierarchical view of authority is reflected in Quaker worship and in the Quaker method of doing business. In these practices, anyone may speak. And the value of what is shared is not determined by a higher human authority, but by the group itself, recognizing the presence or absence of Christ in what has been said. Friends regard someone’s idea as authoritative, not because of their position, but because we recognize that their words do indeed reflect the Light of Christ’s Spirit. And if we do not hear that Light reflected in their words, then what they say is without authority — no matter what title they may use among us. Among Friends, a leader has authority when he or she is delivering God’s message. Queries: Are you mindful of your obligation to lead when God so directs, regardless of your age or experience? Are you mindful to give God inward authority over your own desires and preferences? Are you careful not to let outward titles or attributes sway your ability to discern God’s leading? | |
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