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Christian Leadership
free to act out the grace bestowed upon them that all may understand
the precious privileges which the saints possess as members of the
body of Christ.
The one who is in trust of sacred responsibilities should ever show
forth the meekness and wisdom of Christ; for it is thus that he becomes
a representative of Christ’s character and methods. Never should he
usurp authority, or command or threaten, saying, “Unless you do as I
say, you will receive no pay from the conference.” A man who would
speak such words is out of his place as president of a conference. He
would make men slaves to his judgment.—
Letter 416, 1907
, pp. 5, 6
(December 30, 1907 to A. G. Daniells and W. C. White).
Remove the Dictator—The spirit of domination is extending to
the presidents of our conferences. If a man is sanguine of his own
powers and seeks to exercise dominion over his brethren, feeling that
he is invested with authority to make his will the ruling power, the
best and only safe course is to remove him, lest great harm be done,
and he lose his own soul, and imperil the souls of others. “All ye are
brethren.” This disposition to lord it over God’s heritage will cause
a reaction unless these men change their course. Those in authority
should manifest the spirit of Christ. They should deal as He would
deal with every case that requires attention.—
Testimonies to Ministers
and Gospel Workers, 362
.
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