Kenosis is the name of the game

In our Western culture Christian leadership runs the risk of being confused with the celebrity culture. Church size, ministry reach, and a host of other similar metrics usually make up a leader's bio when they are introduced to the conference platform or the like.

Ironically technology, despite its positives and fantastic utility, can contribute to this in a way that Paul (way ahead of his time) mocked in the beginning of 1 Corinthians (see 1:12). Which well known Christian leaders do you 'follow' on the blogosphere or via Twitter?

This one? Oh please ...

Paul's principle was the opposite. His metrics were the extent of his apparent failure plus generally being kicked around and despised: see 1:28f, 4:9-13 and 2 Cor 11:23f for examples of this recurring theme through the Corinthian message thread.

Paul's principle was that of Jesus Christ: 'kenosis', or self-emptying in English. Laying down that which you might normally or naturally grasp to, even to the point of being totally laid bare ... with only God who might raise you up again (Philippians 2:6-8).

Ask yourself: when was the the last time you heard a leader introduced as someone who has been radically humiliated or laid low in their pursuit of Christ and His service?

Yet that is the qualification of Christian leadership. Kenosis is the name of the game.