Authority: How Godly Rule Protects the Vulnerable, Strengthens Communities, and Promotes Human Flourishing with Study Questions

In every position of power—from executives and world leaders to church elders and parents—lies the potential for life-giving leadership or destructive corruption. Driven by sinful pride or opportunism, many people abuse their God-given authority, harming the ones they’re called to lead and contributing to a skeptical attitude toward leadership. The answer to bad authority, however, is not no authority, but good authority—the kind that, according to Scripture, causes those under it to flourish.

In this compelling guide from 9Marks, Jonathan Leeman shows that authority, done biblically, is not only good but essential to human flourishing. Through Scripture and many first-hand stories, he presents 5 attributes of positive authority and warns against sinfulness that corrupts leadership. Dozens of study questions throughout the book guide readers as they think through each chapter individually or with a group. Pointing to Jesus as the ultimate model of good authority, Leeman equips readers to pursue godly influence in their personal and professional lives.

• Applicable: Challenges readers to identify weaknesses in their own leadership style and offers 5 attributes of godly authority
• Engaging: Filled with compelling stories that illustrate key points
• A Great Resource for Pastors, Employers, Officers, and Parents: Helps readers understand how to practice godly authority in church, at home, and in the workplace
• Created for Individual or Group Study: This edition features study questions in each chapter of the book, encouraging deeper reflection and discussion

Endorsements

“With the heart of a pastor and mind of a theologian, Jonathan Leeman offers a timely perspective on a timeless challenge. Using clear prose and compelling examples, he urges all faithful Christians to consider anew the biblical warrant for authority in every domain of our lives.”
—William Inboden, Executive Director, Clements Center for National Security, University of Texas at Austin

“Thirty-two years of military leadership and six in industry, and still learning! This is a compelling, convicting, and compassionate discourse. Jonathan Leeman uses powerful anecdotes and stories to drive home the principles, truths, and precepts of authority and frames the context for practical application. A must-read for all in and under ‘author-ity’!”
—Scott Vander Hamm, Major General, United States Air Force (retired)