THE AUTHORITY OF SERVICE AND THE SOLIDARITY OF SERVICE IN LUKE 22:24-27
THE AUTHORITY OF SERVICE AND THE SOLIDARITY OF SERVICE IN LUKE 22:24-27

Summary/Abstract: Jesus censors the twelve and demands that, ‘the one who leads should become like the one who serves’ (22:26). The text provides a lesson on the essence of apostolic authority in the Christian community. The aim of this work is to identify this essence of apostolic authority as service in Luke 22:24-27. The objective is to illustrate how the exercise of authority as service enhances participation and mission within the Christian community. The method employed is an exegetical/socio historical analysis of vv. 24-27 in the context of ‘the one who serves’. The conclusion is that ‘the one who serves’ ministers as servant to the community and its members. The leader who exercises authority as service is therefore the servant of the community. Such service places members at the position of masters in relation to their leader and accords them a sense of respect and importance. This awareness evokes a sense of responsibility among members, and readiness to offer their best in service to the community. This solidarity of service on the part of both the leader and the led enhances a realized Church as communion and synod in the furtherance of its mission of spreading the Kingdom of God.

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