Self-promotion among church leaders is a long-standing problem that has generated considerable discussion and controversy throughout the years. Self-aggrandizement is most simply defined as elevating oneself above others in order to achieve power or prestige. Given that it prioritizes the leader’s interests over those of the group and its members, it is sometimes viewed as a kind of narcissism in organizational settings. While it may be argued that some self-promotion is advantageous for any leader, going too far can have negative effects on the person and the business.
Luke 14:11, “For everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled. And he who humbles himself shall be promoted.” Everyone who exalts himself refers to the believer involved in self promotion, degeneracy and the lust pattern of the sin nature, the believer with vacuum in the subconscious.
The harm that self-aggrandizement of church leadership may do to the church’s reputation is the most obvious adverse effect. Members and potential converts are less likely to have a good opinion of leaders when they appear to be prioritizing their own interests over the beliefs and mission of the church. This might result in a lack of respect and appreciation for the leader as well as a decline in interest in going to church services or engaging in other church-related activities.
Also, leaders who are overly preoccupied with elevating themselves risk overlooking crucial facets of their jobs. They can choose to go to conferences, throw lavish parties, or indulge in unnecessary activities rather than investing time in projects and programs that would help their congregation. This may not only result in financial loss for the church but also implies that the leader prioritizes their reputation over their duties. Furthermore, if the church’s financial status is precarious, these unwarranted extravagances will only put additional strain on the budget, which will ultimately put the members in a difficult financial situation.
The congregation’s morale declining is a third unfavorable effect of self-aggrandizement. Members become dissatisfied when they see the leader concentrating mostly on themselves rather than uplifting and helping the church and its neighborhood. They might not feel connected to the leader and think little of their involvement in the church. As a result, there can be fewer regular attendees and less involvement from the community. Disgruntled members may even decide to leave the congregation altogether as a result of their disappointment and sense of alienation, which has grave consequences for the future of the church.
Last but not least, self-aggrandizement among church leaders can hinder members’ spiritual development since it conveys a preference for personal advancement over spiritual growth. Without the proper direction and encouragement, people could struggle to advance in their spiritual lives, which would hinder the congregation’s overall spiritual growth.
In conclusion, church leadership that indulge in self-aggrandizement risk seriously harming both the organization’s members and its overall success. As a result, it is crucial for leaders to be aware of the dangers of self-promotion and to work to maintain humility and a commitment to the church’s objectives rather than pursuing personal power or prestige.
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