Leading with Faithfulness in a Fallen World

The Problem

• The current cultural climate is so hostile to the biblical standard that it can cause even the strongest of saints to consider surrendering.
• This fallen world positions leaders to choose compromise, retreat, surrender, or influence.
• The dismal state of this world does not guarantee that its end has to be the end of everyone in it.

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.”

- Antoine de Saint-Exupery

The Example (2 Kings 22-23)

• While Josiah became king at an early age, he responded well when he became familiar with Scripture’s teaching (22:1, 11).
• Josiah observed the state of his culture against the teachings of God’s Word, and he knew that they were in trouble (22:12-13).
• Due to Josiah’s humbling himself before the LORD, he would not personally experience coming divine judgment (22:15-20).
• Josiah used his influence to expose other leaders to truth and to guide them to a different way of life (23:1-3).
• While free from the punishment of the culture’s idols, he still did everything he could to remove them from among the people (23:4-20).
• Josiah knew their only hope was found in the sacrifice of another (23:21-23).

The Adjustment

• Don’t underestimate what one’s influence can do.
• Don’t overestimate what one’s culture might do.
• While leaders can’t change hearts, they can inform minds.
• Commit to Scripture’s teachings more than a culture’s leanings.
• Leverage your influence to protect others from sin’s devastation.

We cannot live in a verified godless culture if we still live amongst it.