A Contemporary Theology of Leadership: A Biblical-Kingship Paradigm

Abstract

This thesis is an analysis of a Biblical paradigm of kingship known as the Law of the King in Deuteronomy 17:14-20, its application to Jesus' kingship, and to contemporary Christian leadership. The principal argument of this thesis is that the Law of the King forms a foundational paradigm of leadership which is still normative for Christian leaders today as followers of Christ. Through Moses, the Law of the King became Israel's paradigm for kingship intended to set the nation apart from the destructive leadership patterns of other Near Eastern nations, and on a course for everlasting peace, well-being, and life. By regulating the authority and sets of relationships within which Israel's king functions, the Law of the King would ultimately serve to promote the security, strengthening, and continuity of the people of Israel, with special attention given to the vulnerable among them. Because modem conceptions of Christian leadership stem not from the Biblical paradigm, leaders today are not leading from within a Christian framework and understanding of the nature and purpose of leadership. This thesis concludes with suggestions of how a Biblical understanding of kingship, from amongst other possible paradigms, leads the reader to an alternative model for contemporary Christian leadership.