Many friends have just screamed and fallen out of their chairs. Perhaps I should explain.

We live in a time that worships greatness. "We're #1" is repackaged as "I'm #1." "Give your best effort" joins "You can be anything you want" and creates "I have a right to be whatever I want."

The same treatment is applied to the idea of leaders. Personal choice replaces being called as all are urged to be leaders. Why? More money, more influence, more prestige and power. To be a success.

This approach thrives in the world--We can do, have, and be exactly what we wish--and within the Body of Christ as well--The only person who can raise the standard of your life is YOU.

We must be careful. God is not a sound bite. Is this how He defines success? Are such goals the focus of His leaders? And who are they? Does He choose them or do they simply enroll in a course.

This may sound like I'm knocking the wave of leadership training that currently flows through the world of faith. I'm not. Despite the questionable marketing tactics of a few, many share incredible insight to help build up and prepare God's people for now and the days to come.

Yet if we're not vigilant, the Body of Christ can easily be viewed as a dichotomy, a division of two exclusive groups--dominant leaders and passive followers. That's not what Jesus had in mind.

But do not be called Rabbi; for One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers...Do not be called leaders; for One is your Leader, that is, Christ. But the greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted. Matthew 23:8-13, NASU

Jesus spoke these words to the entire crowd that came to hear Him, religious leaders as well as those who had no hope of ever being regarded as religious leaders. Why would He do that?

He wanted to stress that we are all equal in His Family. We have different jobs, but no one is higher or more special than the other. We love and care for each other, but our focus is on Jesus. He alone is our Master and Teacher. We share His words, wisdom, and truth, but never His authority.

Still, why include leaders? The Greek word describes a guide, one standing apart with special knowledge and abilities to take someone to a desired destination. Jesus wanted it to be clear. Only He is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. (see John 14:6)

The world seduces with visions of greatness, but only Jesus is Master, Teacher, and Lord. And yet each of us has been called to be a leader of sorts to an unbelieving world. Your every word and act affect the lives around you, even those of many you never knew were watching.