I like to say I was a rebel growing up; but, in hindsight I was just stubborn. It was my way or the highway. I didn’t have much obedience when it came to my parents teachers, or even coaches. This would get me grounded, detention and benched. In other words I was useless.

As a youth minister you might run the show; however, you still have to report to a higher authority. Yes, you are a disciple of Christ, a child of God; however, you also have a pastor. This might be a challenge because of who your pastor is; however, in the end being obedient to authority is important. It shows:

  • Respect
  • Trust
  • Loyalty

Again, to be obedient to the authority that surrounds us can be difficult for a variety of reasons. No matter why you struggle to listen to your pastor you need to build trust, respect and loyalty by:

  • Keeping The Communication Open: When communication breaks down a void occurs. If trust is lacking that void can be filled with suspicion. By having open and honest conversation with your pastor you show authority that you want to make sure you are both on the same page. As the communication builds, so will the trust. When there is a gap in communication you’ll find yourself filling it with trust.
  • Practice Leading Up: Strive to consistently ask the your pastor, “What can I do for you today?” There may be days when you do not feel like asking; however, this question shows that you care and you want him to succeed. When your leader succeeds so does the entire ministry. Show obedience by showing your leader that you are there to help him.
  • Praise Publicly And Confront Privately: If you don’t have anything nice to say, do not say it publicly. When you bash, or criticize your pastor in front of a crowd you not only lose his loyalty but other people’s respect. No one is willing to trust someone they think will throw them under the bus. If you have a problem with your pastor make sure you bring it to him privately.
  • Give It Over To God: Just like any relationship the one you have with authority needs to be centered on God. That means asking God for the patience to understand your pastor’s instruction. Giving it over to God also means asking for the strength to lean into any tension that might lay between you and authority.

The relationship you have with your leadership is essential to how effective you can be in your ministry. It’s a difficult relationship; however, when you can show obedience you show him that you are willing to work with him. You know that as a leader you are vulnerable, remember that’s the same case for all authority. Work together, pray together and focus on the vision God has for your church.

What’s the largest obstacle to showing obedience to authority?