The Posse

A ragtag posse of young men felt inexplicably drawn to a contemporary who had a uniquely strong sense of purpose. For three years they lived a nomadic existence which provided them an inside view of a charismatic leader who attracted a crowd everywhere he went. Their leader was simultaneously mysterious and familiar in a way normally reserved for family. His mission was both idealistic and practical. His style was philosophical while fulfilling the functional. His unorthodox oratory addressed life’s most complex questions with satisfying storytelling that oozed irrefutable logic. His routine and appearance conveyed commonality while His appeal rose to the level of nobility. Some might be of the opinion that His personal accomplishments fell short of His romantic rhetoric. His most significant accomplishment may be His legacy which was actually secured by His “posse”. Most reputable historians would allow that this group is the single biggest influencer of western civilization. The philosophical underpinnings of our most cherished institutions can be traced back to their leader.

The impact that the Disciples of Christ have had on this world is the single reason why the leadership style of Jesus is worthy of our study. I don’t know of another study topic that we have had since I have been involved in the Young Adult Ministry that has been more significant or has more potential for impacting all of our lives now and for the future than these past few weeks. Jesus is an excellent leadership example for us to emulate. The Christian church is always one generation away from extinction. Just as Jesus trusted the entire mission of the early church to His twelve disciples He has placed His trust in us to fulfill the mission of the church in the place where we live, sleep, work and play.