#2 Dr Taveau D’Arcy EORR Cross Body Unity, Ministry Training Vocabulary
Terms of Being Well Known: Bible, Human Fame and Fortune Ministry Words
Asking: What is Renown? Famous? A Christian Celebrity?
+ CAN YOU HAVE WORLD WIDE MINISTRY RECOGNIZED NAME
AND STILL BE A SERVANT LEADER?
Fame and Renown…Warning From Jesus:
“The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them… But it shall not be so among you: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.”
(Luke 22:25–26 KJV)
(C)2025 Taveau D’Arcy All copyrights reserved under international copyright laws, in conjunction with AI
Parents Leave Church: Take Parents with Them (Right now, the USA)
Isaiah 28:9 (KJV)**
“Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.”
** This verse speaks of spiritual maturity being necessary to understand true doctrine
Murmuring Big Body of Christ: Isaiah 29:24 (KJV)**
“They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.”
** This verse prophesies a time when those who were spiritually off-track will come to understand true doctrine.
NOTE Taveau includes a list that she and Chat GPT each nominated for a Servant Leader who has gone multi-campus, complex, high visibility mega and is ‘world wide famous’ yet still is “servant leader’ with large administration and ‘appears to be” NOT MORPHED into an “Top Down” (authoritarian) Christian office ministry figure. (See the article that trains on this )
Caution: T understands that she will cause controversy in this list, but bear with it and do your own research, Submit others we might have missed. IF YOU ARE RESPECTFUL, JAMES 3:17 FRUIT)
(C)2025 Taveau D’Arcy All copyrights reserved under international copyright laws, in conjunction with AI
Determining Character Fruit lies at the based of all of this deep inquiry..meaning due to the extreme uncertainty of this Hour.
Am asking this main question:
The Sly Office Pharoah OR Servant Leader..that is MY Real Question (how do you trust now?)
A Mature Prototype for General Office Future Church Sr Ministry (all submitted as a Selah)
1. When , if we define First Church,as Ephesians 5:21 (which is history)as “mutual submission in the fear of the Lord” for ministry offices, elders, leaders,lay, families, the community and marriage..how is this ministry, who is now hugely influentional and effects “many” at the grass roots. now “accurately” “most High God”representing First Church in ‘giant’ “multicampus” “media” well known ministry?
2. And in this section: I question HOW is this possible in global world wide mega?
FIRST: I repost my illustration for the ‘servant leader, unified, diverse” Apostle Paul First”Church “visual example” which can model Mutual Submission” Servant Leadership – Ephesians 5:21 ( and I will use this often)
Mental View of Mutually Submitted (although this is secular)
NOTE: View the old TV show “Andy Griffith Show” (which I refer to as Andy of Mayberry.)
Take note how the town sheriff, Andy Taylor, interacts with the many people in the town. Note especially how he regards, interfaces, relates to, acts, and reacts repeatedly with his Aunt Bea, son Opie, and Deputy Sheriff Barney Fife. And in shows when he seems to be dating the librarian (or teacher) Helen Crump, note how he acts and reacts. Similar—that is a vision of “mutual submission” (Ephesians 5:21).
When a town drunk, criminal, or troublemaker shows up on The Andy Griffith Show, Sheriff Andy Taylor typically responds with calm, kindness, and respect—never with harsh judgment or authoritarianism. He listens, reasons, and treats each person with dignity, even while upholding the law. His consistent, measured approach—even with those who repeatedly fail—illustrates a servant leader’s heart: firm in values, but gracious in tone. This reflects the spirit of Ephesians 5:21—“submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God”—even toward the least respected members of society.
Gomer Pyle, the lovable and off-beat gas station attendant, is another powerful example of how Sheriff Andy Taylor models servant leadership and mutual respect (Ephesians 5:21). Despite Gomer’s awkwardness, lack of polish, or tendency to misunderstand situations, Andy treats him with patience, kindness, and dignity. He never mocks Gomer, talks down to him, or excludes him, but instead values his sincerity and good heart. Andy’s responses show how servant leaders make room for every person, not based on status or intelligence, but on shared humanity and mutual care.
SECOND SECTION:
Before we discuss vocabulary, this plays a part in what follows:
1. Many of Us Regard the Following as A “FAMOUS CHRISTIAN”
I asked GPT AI to make points about well known ministry following “generals”
- Apostle Paul in his own words: ‘off scouring of the office world, dung”, not famous in his own day..nor in his own eyes
- Mother Teresa who had what I name a “swarm” ministry not into big structure, which is more like myself
- William Booth,founder of the Salvation Army , who was more structured and widespread
I. Ye Olde Apostle Paul
Paul’s Perspective on His Apostolic Office in Galatians 1:1-2 and Acts 17:17 vs. Modern Media Presentation
Introduction:
The apostle Paul was one of the most influential figures in the early Christian church, but his view of himself was radically different from the modern concept of a “mega ministry” leader. In Galatians 1:1-2, Paul introduces himself as an apostle, not by human appointment, but by the will of God. In Acts 17:17, we see him engaging in the public square, debating in the marketplaces of Athens, which was a very public and influential platform.
Despite this, Paul’s self-perception was far from one of self-promotion, fame, or celebrity. Rather, he viewed himself in the most humble terms, referring to himself as “dung” or “offscouring” (Philippians 3:8), demonstrating the contrast between his apostolic humility and the way modern media might depict a well-known Christian leader.
Paul’s Apostolic Office in Galatians 1:1-2:
In Galatians 1:1-2, Paul writes, “Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead—And all the brethren who are with me, to the churches of Galatia.”
Here, Paul emphasizes that his servant leader even supernatural call of apostleship is not a title granted by human authority or institutions, but rather, it is a divine calling from Jesus Christ. This sets a profound tone about the nature of his ministry: it was not self-appointed or self-seeking, but birthed out of God’s will.
Paul’s emphasis on divine calling over human recognition reflects his broader attitude toward his role. He was a servant leader who did not seek the approval or praise of people. His letter to the Galatians, like many of his letters, was not to defend his reputation but to clarify the gospel and the true authority behind it.
Paul in Acts 17:17: Engaging in the Public Square:
In Acts 17:17, Paul engages in public discourse in Athens, an intellectual and cultural hub of the time. He goes into the synagogue and the marketplace, discussing and debating with philosophers, both Epicureans and Stoics. This was a significant public platform, and we might consider it a “mega-ministry” moment. Yet, in Paul’s mind, this was not about drawing crowds or building a personal empire. He was not interested in becoming a “celebrity preacher,” but rather, he was faithful to the mission of spreading the gospel, even if it meant facing ridicule and rejection.
Paul’s behavior in this setting demonstrates his willingness to interact with and challenge the cultural leaders of the time, not for personal fame, but to glorify God and bring the message of Christ to those who were lost. In the modern context, this could be compared to Christian leaders engaging with public platforms, yet Paul’s humble approach underscores the difference between using influence for the gospel and using it for self-promotion.
Paul’s Self-Perception: “Dung” and “Offscouring” (Philippians 3:8):
Despite the significance of his ministry, Paul’s self-view was far from the image of a celebrity or public figure that we might associate with modern mega-ministers. In Philippians 3:8, Paul writes, “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”
The word “rubbish” here is often translated as “dung” or “offscouring,” which implies that Paul considered anything—whether achievements, accolades, or worldly recognition—as worthless compared to knowing Christ.
This starkly contrasts with the modern Christian celebrity culture that often seeks validation through recognition and popularity. While many modern leaders may see their fame as a sign of success, Paul viewed everything in light of eternity and the supreme value of knowing Christ. His humility and deep sense of his own unworthiness before God led him to reject any notion of glory or fame in the earthly sense.
Paul’s self-image (TD interjects “his esteem”) was rooted in his awareness of his unworthiness and his calling to serve Christ, even to the point of suffering. His apostolic authority did not come from his charisma, his public ministry, or his ability to attract crowds, but from God’s calling and the grace extended to him.
How We View Paul Today Through the Lens of Media:
Today, Paul’s life and ministry are often presented through the lens of media and historical accounts, sometimes elevating him to the status of a “Christian hero” or a “mega-ministry” figure.
His writings have shaped much of Christian doctrine, and his missionary work is celebrated across denominations. Modern media outlets, churches, and even books present Paul as a towering figure, often focusing on his accomplishments and his vast influence on the spread of Christianity.
However, when we view Paul through the eyes of TV and media, we risk distorting the very heart of his ministry. Modern representations of Paul often emphasize his authority, his theological insights, and his role as a foundational leader in the Church, which are all valid and important aspects of his legacy. But if we do not remember Paul’s own self-awareness of his unworthiness, we miss the profound humility that characterized his life and ministry.
Unlike today’s Christian media culture, which sometimes elevates ministers to celebrity status, Paul’s perspective was grounded in servanthood. His success, in his eyes, was not in how many people followed him or how many churches he planted, but in his obedience to Christ and his willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel.
Conclusion:
The apostle Paul’s view of himself, as expressed in his letters and actions, stands in stark contrast to the modern view of Christian leadership through the lens of media and celebrity culture. While Paul’s influence was immense, his view of ministry was not about building a personal brand or securing a legacy. Instead, he viewed his calling as an apostle with humility, constantly pointing to Christ as the source of his authority and purpose.
In our modern context, as Christian leaders, we must guard against the temptation to embrace a celebrity mindset, remembering that true leadership in the kingdom of God is rooted in servanthood, humility, and a willingness to suffer for the sake of Christ.
As we engage with media, platforms, and public spaces, may we follow Paul’s example of pointing to Christ rather than to ourselves, knowing that any recognition we receive is ultimately a gift from God, to be used for His glory, not our own.
II. Mother Teresa
Servant Leadership in the Style of Mother Teresa: “Swarm Ministry” and the Balance of Fame and Structure
Mother Teresa is often viewed as the epitome of humility and selflessness, a modern-day example of what servant leadership looks like in action. Her ministry, largely centered around the poor and the sick in Calcutta, India, was not characterized by grand structures, large budgets, or elaborate systems. Yet, her life and work resonated with millions around the world, and she became famous globally. Despite this fame, she maintained a simplicity in her approach to ministry, which can be described as a form of “swarm ministry”—dynamic, organic, and driven by the needs of the people she served rather than by an institutionalized structure.(That makes a GOOD POINT)
TD Uses the Term: A Concept of “Swarm Ministry”
The term “swarm ministry” evokes an image of movement and flexibility. A swarm is not rigidly controlled or tightly structured, but it is effective in responding to needs in a fluid, almost instinctive way. In this sense, Mother Teresa’s ministry could be seen as a “swarm ministry”—not deeply systematized, but deeply aware of the needs of others. She didn’t aim to build an empire or grow a massive institution; instead, she responded to the needs she saw around her, using her limited resources in the most direct way possible.
Mother Teresa’s approach to serving the poor and the sick was simple and direct. She did not set out to become an international icon or to establish a large-scale, bureaucratic organization. Yet, the very lack of a formal structure did not hinder her impact; it allowed for a more personalized, grassroots approach. Volunteers, many of them young and eager to serve, would “swarm” around the needs of the people, going where help was most needed without the overhead of a large administrative structure.
Note:This approach might have looked disorganized to outsiders, but to those involved, it was an incredibly powerful model of community and compassionate service.
Fame and the Challenge of Servant Leadership
Despite her simplicity, Mother Teresa became world-renowned. Her humility, selflessness, and deep faith resonated with people from all walks of life, and she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Yet, her fame brought with it challenges and controversy.
1. Public Perception and Celebrity Status:
Mother Teresa’s fame often brought scrutiny, both from the media and from those who disagreed with her approach. Some critics suggested that she could have done more to address the systemic causes of poverty, while others questioned her stance on abortion and contraception. Her willingness to embrace suffering and poverty as a means of sharing in Christ’s own suffering was also criticized by some who believed her ministry focused more on alleviating individual suffering rather than tackling societal injustices head-on.
Despite these criticisms, Mother Teresa remained steadfast in her mission, never deviating from her commitment to serve the poorest of the poor. In her view, the act of loving and caring for individuals was as important as any structural or political solution to poverty. Her approach was grounded in the belief that love, care, and compassion were the most effective ways to minister to others.
2. The Dilemma of Fame:
Mother Teresa’s fame, while a byproduct of her faithful ministry, was not something she sought. She often expressed discomfort with her public recognition and tried to redirect the attention to the work being done by the Missionaries of Charity, the order she founded. Her simple life and refusal to become a “celebrity” served as a powerful lesson in humility. While the world saw her as an icon, she viewed herself as a humble servant of Christ, striving to remain focused on the task at hand—serving those who had no voice and no hope.
Her fame may have also been a tool that God used to shine a light on the plight of the poor. In that sense, her fame was not the goal, but it was used for a greater purpose. The tension between fame and servant leadership is one that many modern Christian leaders face. Like Mother Teresa, they may not seek recognition, but the platform that comes with recognition can allow them to impact more people and raise awareness for causes they deeply care about.
Structure in Mother Teresa’s Ministry
While Mother Teresa’s ministry might not have been characterized by elaborate structures or programs, it was not without organization. The Missionaries of Charity, the order she founded, grew to encompass thousands of members across the world. Despite the informal, grassroots nature of the work, the order was deeply committed to maintaining a strong spiritual foundation, rooted in prayer, humility, and service. This balance between a simple, non-bureaucratic approach and the need for some level of structure is key to understanding how she was able to operate on such a global scale.
In her ministry, the structure was never meant to dominate the work. Instead, it served to support the mission of serving the poor and marginalized. The volunteers and workers under Mother Teresa’s leadership were committed to living simply, serving faithfully, and maintaining a heart of compassion. The order’s structure allowed them to provide effective service without compromising their commitment to humility and simplicity.
The Challenge of Today’s Ministry Landscape
In the context of modern Christian ministry, there are many lessons to be learned from Mother Teresa’s “swarm ministry” approach. While modern ministries often seek to build large, complex organizations with multiple layers of administration, there is much to be said for a more fluid, organic approach that is responsive to the needs of the community.
In a world where many Christian leaders are tempted by fame, fortune, and power, the example of Mother Teresa’s humble ministry offers a stark contrast.
However, there is also a need for structure in ministry to ensure sustainability, accountability, and effective stewardship of resources.
Good Point: While some ministries may adopt the “swarm” mentality, it is important to balance that with the practicalities of ensuring that the work is sustainable and can be done with integrity.
Conclusion : Being Widely Known “Expect Big Ministry Controversy”
Mother Teresa’s ministry was an embodiment of what it means to be a servant leader. She lived out the model of sacrificial love, responding to the needs of the poorest and most marginalized people in a way that was simple, personal, and deeply effective. Her fame, which came as a result of her faithfulness, was both a gift and a challenge, as it sometimes brought controversy. Yet, she never allowed her recognition to overshadow the calling God had placed on her life. Her ministry was not based on building a global empire, but on humbly serving others, one person at a time.
For modern Christian leaders, the example of Mother Teresa challenges us to reflect on the balance between fame, structure, and servanthood. How can we serve effectively without becoming distracted by the allure of fame or the pressures of building an institution? Like Mother Teresa, we are called to serve with humility, recognizing that our greatest influence comes not from our fame, but from our faithfulness to God’s calling and our love for others.
III. William Booth and The Salvation Army: A Structured Yet Servant-Leader Ministry
The third example of a structured yet servant-leader ministry that was not top-down authoritarian is William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army.
William Booth founded The Salvation Army in 1865 with the aim of reaching the poor, the marginalized, and the downtrodden in society. His ministry was both structured and dynamic, relying on a hierarchical organization, yet Booth’s leadership was deeply servant-hearted and oriented toward community service.
1. Servant Leadership Approach:
Booth’s leadership was rooted in a deep sense of compassion and humility. He viewed his role as a servant to the poor, embodying Christ-like love and concern for the most vulnerable members of society. His famous statement, “Go for souls, and go for the worst,” reflected his heart for reaching the lost and those who had been abandoned by society. Booth’s ministry was about meeting both the physical and spiritual needs of individuals, through evangelism, education, and social work.
Despite the structured nature of The Salvation Army—Booth established clear ranks, roles, and responsibilities—the leadership was never authoritarian in the traditional sense. Booth encouraged local autonomy within his army, with leaders often given a significant amount of freedom to adapt their ministry to local contexts. The “officers” in The Salvation Army were essentially servants, expected to embody humility and sacrifice as they led their communities.
2. Balancing Structure and Servanthood:
While The Salvation Army adopted a military-like structure with ranks such as generals, captains, and lieutenants, Booth did not exercise authoritarian control over the organization. He emphasized that the officers were not to lord their position over others but to lead with love, compassion, and humility. His model was one of servant leadership: leaders were to serve the people they were leading, not control them.
Booth’s focus was on creating a “family” of workers, where relationships were based on shared values of faith, service, and sacrifice. His leadership was collaborative and supportive rather than top-down or hierarchical in a traditional sense.
3. Legacy of Servant Leadership:
William Booth’s commitment to servant leadership is seen in the ongoing work of The Salvation Army, which continues to serve marginalized communities around the world. The organization is one of the largest and most recognizable Christian social justice ministries globally, with a focus on helping those in poverty, offering disaster relief, and providing rehabilitation for those suffering from addiction, homelessness, and other life crises.
Booth’s leadership style is an example of a servant leader who balanced structure with humility and care for others. He built a lasting ministry that served the physical and spiritual needs of individuals, always seeking to embody Christ’s love in action.
Conclusion
William Booth’s leadership in The Salvation Army provides an excellent example of how a structured ministry can still operate with servant leadership principles. His model avoided authoritarianism, focused on humility, and prioritized the well-being of the community he served. His approach shows that structure and servant leadership can coexist, with the ultimate goal being the service of others, not the control of them.
The mature writer is TAKING A QUICK PAUSE. This concludes the Intro to show GOD’S GREATNESS in servant leaders who are well known, but who walked it out before Christ, not to get fortune or fame.
WE plan to continue(right here) with Defining, Giving Modern Living, Working, Examples along with Ministry Discussions of Nuances of Fame, Renown, Celebrity Ministry Vocabulary
THIRD SECTION :
MINISTRY DEFINITIONS: ” Fame” VS “having Renown” VS A Christian Celebrity
Warning From Jesus:
“The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them… But it shall not be so among you: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.”
(Luke 22:25–26 KJV)
Paul’s Warning:
“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”
(2 Corinthians 10:12 KJV)
Sister Taveau asks ChatGPT
Please define using a Bible, ministry context:Q. What is a Christian with renown VS fame VS celebrity
Chat GPT replies:
In a Bible and ministry context, a Christian with renown, fame, or celebrity refers to a believer—often a minister, artist, author, or speaker—who becomes widely known, recognized, and often admired by the public or Church community, sometimes for their gifting, message, or personality.
+ Biblical View of Fame & Renown
1. God-given Renown (Positive, Humble Use):
We must acknowledge that Scripture does address both renown as a blessing from God and the danger of division or fame in ministry (celebrity culture). Here’s a breakdown of Bible verses that support both perspectives:
+ Positive Renown (When God Exalts a Person)
God may choose to give someone renown or favor for His glory, not for self-exaltation.
1. Zephaniah 3:19 (KJV)
“Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will save her that halteth, and gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.”
→ Hebrew for “fame” here is shem (שֵׁם) – name, reputation, renown.
2. Joshua 6:27 (KJV)
“So the Lord was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country.”
→ A God-given recognition for Joshua’s obedience.
3. 1 Chronicles 14:17 (KJV)
“And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the Lord brought the fear of him upon all nations.”
4. Mark 1:28 (KJV)
“And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.”
→ Refers to Jesus’ works, not self-promotion
++ Dangerous Red Flag: Man-Made Fame, Division, or Spiritual Celebrity
Paul warns against idolizing human leaders or creating ministry cliques, which is common in celebrity Christianity today.
1. 1 Corinthians 1:11–13 (KJV)
“…every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you?…”
→ Warning against factionalism or denominationalism built around personalities.
2. 1 Corinthians 3:3–7 (KJV)
“…for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal… Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed… So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.”
→ Paul de-emphasizes human fame in ministry.
!! Rebuking Glory-Seeking:
1. John 12:43 (KJV)
“For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.”
→ Refers to Pharisees, but applies to ministry ego.
2. Matthew 6:1 (KJV)
“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward…”
+ Summary
-
Godly renown is sometimes a reward for faithfulness, especially for the rejected or oppressed (Zephaniah 3:19).
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Carnal renown or ministry celebrity often breeds pride, factions, and compromise.
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Paul and Jesus both rejected popularity-seeking and stressed servanthood and Christ-exaltation.
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Definition: When someone becomes known because of their obedience, faith, or servant-hearted fruitfulness, not self-promotion.
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Examples:
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David — rose to fame through God’s anointing (1 Samuel 18:7–14)
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Paul — became known through persecution and gospel impact (Acts 19:15; Galatians 1:23–24)
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Jesus Himself — became famous, but often withdrew to pray (Mark 1:28, 1:35)
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2. Man-made Celebrity (Dangerous Temptation):
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Definition: When a Christian becomes a brand, persona, or idolized figure, often marketed or promoted, possibly above Christ’s message.
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Warnings:
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“Let no flesh glory in His presence.” (1 Corinthians 1:29)
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“Woe unto you when all men shall speak well of you.” (Luke 6:26)
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“Some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry…” (Philippians 1:15–17)
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+ Ministry Identity Check: Fame vs. Faithfulness
| Faithful Minister (Christ-like) | Famous Christian (Celebrity Risk) |
|---|---|
| Points people to Christ | May draw people to self |
| Humble, hidden when needed | Constant online presence |
| Serves without need for applause | Measures success by followers or influence |
| Walks in accountability | May be surrounded by yes-men or image keepers |
| Motivated by calling | Tempted by platform or fear of losing relevance |
Paul’s Warning:
“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”
(2 Corinthians 10:12 KJV)
Summary:
Fame itself is not a sin, but in ministry, it’s a serious test of motive, identity, and character. The goal is never to become a Christian celebrity, but to remain a servant of Christ—even if He gives public favor.
TCL Mature Resource: TEACHING OUTLINE
Topic: Ministry Renown vs. Servant Leadership: Biblical Foundations
- Define “renown,” “celebrity,” and “fame” in ministry context
- Highlight the difference between God-given renown and man-made popularity
- Introduce theme verse: Zephaniah 3:19 (KJV)
II. Biblical Renown as a Blessing from God
A. Old Testament Examples
- Zephaniah 3:19 – God promises to give the outcast “praise and fame”
- Joshua 6:27 – Joshua’s fame as God’s leader
- 1 Chronicles 14:17 – David’s fame spread through divine empowerment
B. New Testament Example
- Mark 1:28 – Jesus’ fame spreads, centered on the message and miracles, not self-glory
III. Dangers of Ministry Celebrity and Division
A. Apostle Paul’s Rebuke of Factionalism
- 1 Corinthians 1:11-13 – “I am of Paul, Apollos, Cephas…”
- 1 Corinthians 3:3-7 – Carnality in dividing loyalty among leaders
B. Warning Against Human Praise-Seeking
- John 12:43 – “Loved the praise of men more than the praise of God”
- Matthew 6:1 – Doing good to be seen = no heavenly reward
A. Paul’s Christ-Centered Focus
- 1 Corinthians 2:2 – “I determined not to know any thing…save Jesus Christ”
- 2 Corinthians 10:12 – “Comparing themselves…not wise”
B. Jesus on Leadership
- Matthew 23:11-12 – “He that is greatest…shall be your servant”
- Luke 22:25-27 – The greatest must be like the youngest/servant
- Gossip, low self-esteem, competition, envy: roots in identity crises
- Cain and Abel (Genesis 4) – jealousy over perceived divine favor
- FOMO, comparison culture, ministry cliques
- Patriarchy and top-down structures vs. organic servant-led body
VI. Application
- Identity rooted in Christ, not titles, applause, or platforms
- Discipling leaders to serve, not to shine
- Creating a culture of mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21)
VII. Conclusion
- Reaffirm the need for spiritual leaders to reflect Christ’s humility
- Encourage introspection: Am I seeking God’s glory or man’s applause?
Topic: Media, Marketing and Entertainment, False, Make Believe, Fantasy
TD Point: In a time when platforms, algorithms, and viral moments define much of Christian leadership’s visibility, it is necessary to pause and ask: What does God say about being known?
Scripture affirms that God can give renown to those who have suffered or served faithfully: “I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame” (Zephaniah 3:19). Likewise, leaders like Joshua and David were granted honor not for seeking it, but because God was with them (Joshua 6:27, 1 Chronicles 14:17).
Even Jesus, whose fame spread (Mark 1:28), never sought self-promotion. His focus remained on the Father’s will, the message of the Kingdom, and the call to servanthood.
In contrast, Paul confronted early signs of ministry celebrity culture in the church at Corinth. Some boasted about following Paul, Apollos, or Cephas (1 Corinthians 1:11–13), dividing the body over personalities. Paul countered this by saying he chose to know nothing among them but “Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2), and warned: “they measuring themselves by themselves…are not wise“ (2 Corinthians 10:12).
Major Point: This same mindset feeds modern issues like gossip, envy, comparison, and even ministry “cliques.” Whether it’s competing platforms, hidden jealousy, or “Keeping Up with the Joneses” ministry syndrome, the root often lies in misplaced identity. As with Cain and Abel (Genesis 4), unguarded hearts can breed bitterness when another’s offering seems favored.
The early Church operated as a body, not a celebrity brand. Leaders served under Christ’s headship, submitting to one another in reverence (Ephesians 5:21). Today, we must return to organic, Spirit-led servanthood rather than replicating worldly models of fame, power, and hierarchy.
Ultimately, every servant of Christ must choose: Will I serve to be seen or serve to glorify Him?
“He that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” – Matthew 23:11
Personal Google Bible Verse Study
(Yes, it’s THEIR test, but it’s also YOURS + MINE!)
Jim Bakker Time Period Epic Lesson
Micah 7:5, Psalm 118:8-9
Live like this, train all, and “expect” well known persons to fall.
And then YOU won’t be horrified, turn bitter, and possibly lose YOUR faith.
A Ministry Expansion Question
TD asks Chat GPT AI
This is a ministry quandry: How can a Mini /mini servant leader avoid the pitfall of eventually turning “Mighty Mega, Multi-campuses, and world wide? Sister Taveau has long wondered about this from the 1980s on.
She states this open ended type of Question to Chat GPT AI for it’s “objective opinion”
POINT If God has called a Christian office leader ( who is assessed as one of His ministry office “servant leaders”) and (also) if that “persons” (a him or her) is a God’ called work planter, new work birther (an apostle ) by God’s calling, gifting, and ability…
POINT…..and over time the work, the ministry, church expands and mushrooms into 2 to 50 campuses, for example—and then that person now increases to where that person is now noted as having a “famous” “well known ‘ “Christian mega ministry”—and they (him , her) are a prophet, apostle who has been given great favor ,who is called to be expanded and eventually ” worldwide” (as in renown)…
POINT…THEN HOW can that person adjust “Their Ministry Version” of governing office authority to “govern,” ..means to rule, to maintain order, to lead and keep the administration, the recording, to please the governmental state, national, IRS legal laws, in order to govern using stable ..enduring proving the test of time, Christian authority?
Chat GPT AI Responds using valuable Bible Scriptures and examples:
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Christ-Centered Model of Authority (John 13:13–15; Matthew 20:25–28)
Jesus, though Lord and Teacher, washed His disciples’ feet and warned His followers not to lead like the Gentile rulers who “lord it over” people. Instead, the greatest must be a servant. This means that even if your ministry becomes “mega,” your motive, posture, and method must remain humble. Governance must reflect servant authority—not domination, but responsibility, accountability, and love. -
Paul’s Model – Apostolic Oversight Without Authoritarianism (2 Corinthians 10:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:6–8)
Paul oversaw many churches but often said, “Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy” (2 Corinthians 1:24). He wrote letters, sent trusted team members (like Timothy, Titus), and made rare visits. He also emphasized order (1 Corinthians 14:40), administrative clarity (Romans 16), and cooperation with local leaders and governments (Romans 13). -
Keys to Governing a Mega Ministry While Remaining a Servant Leader:
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Delegation (Exodus 18:13–26; Acts 6:1–7) – Moses was told by Jethro to appoint leaders over groups to avoid burnout. The early Church did likewise by assigning deacons.
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Team Leadership (Ephesians 4:11–12) – True apostolic ministry equips others. Avoid centralizing power—spread it out through trustworthy, trained, mutually submissive leaders.
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Servant Administrative Systems – Hire gifted administrators, legal advisors, and accountants who honor Christ and the law (1 Corinthians 14:40; Romans 13:1–7).
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Stay Accountable – Establish internal and external boards, elder councils, or trusted peers to keep the ministry accountable without making it a human personality cult.
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Continual Soul Checks (Psalm 139:23–24) – Seek God’s heart regularly to avoid pride, control, or micromanagement. Stay broken, teachable, and Spirit-led
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THE LAST SECTION
Modern-Day Examples of Humble Servant Leaders in Large Ministries
“When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” — Luke 18:8
This list reflects a long-term, respectful observance from afar — not exaltation or idolization. These leaders have demonstrated fruit, humility, and Christlike servant leadership in highly visible roles. No ministry is perfect, but these names reflect integrity, emotional health, racial and age, gender, status Jesus Real Respect.. for many and for ALL Sorts of God formed Human Real Persons, plus a seeming doctrinal steadiness,not one bit biased, plus and faithfulness under remain humble, emotionally healthy under extreme pressure.(my far off views)
Sure to cause big controversy: and I will post some of these now but GIVE WELL THOUGHT OUT REASONS later.
First Criteria: they presume human dignity, not word curse theologians, nor screamers..nor the Boy’s Club..much more..
hmmmm
(BE Aware: I will redo this part..understand many, even most, are known as ‘controversial, but mainly if you not recognize the Holy Spirit)
Modern-Day Examples of Humble Servant Leaders with Wide Influence
These individuals are not being exalted as perfect or above scrutiny, but are named here based on years (or decades) of visible fruit, spiritual depth, and servant-leader character from a watchful and cautious ministry observer’s viewpoint.
1. Dr. Jack Hayford (deceased)
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Revered worship leader, theologian, and founding pastor of Church on the Way.
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Widely respected for deep spirituality, Christlike demeanor, and refusal to be political or celebrity-driven.
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Fathered many pastors and movements with love, not domination.
2. Dr. Tony Evans
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Longtime pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship.
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Known for doctrinal faithfulness, racial reconciliation work, integrity in Bible teaching, and fathering the urban evangelical movement.
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Despite recent controversy, his legacy shows deep moral fiber and ministry fruit.
3. Pastor Rick Warren
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Author of The Purpose Driven Life and founder of Saddleback Church.
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Famously reverse-tithes (lives on 10%, gives away 90%).
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Known for global missions, mental health advocacy, and humility in leadership.
4. Dr. Charles Stanley (deceased) – Known for decades of Bible teaching with personal reserve, fiscal responsibility, and doctrinal focus.
5. Dr. David Jeremiah
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Longtime pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church and host of Turning Point.
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Faithful expositor of Scripture, not driven by trends or personalities.
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Reputation for integrity and doctrinal soundness over decades.
6. Pastor Joel Osteen
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Pastor of Lakewood Church, often attacked for being “prosperity,” but has consistently shown joy, self-restraint, and respect for all people.
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Reportedly takes no salary from the church, lives transparently, and still honors his wife and family deeply.
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Maintains a non-combative, inclusive tone that draws millions toward hope.
6. Gordon Robertson
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Son of Pat Robertson, current CEO of the Christian Broadcasting Network.
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Carries himself with humility and wisdom, quietly overseeing a massive media and humanitarian operation.
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Not flashy or self-promoting—focused on outreach and global compassion.
7. Pastor Steven Furtick
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Lead pastor of Elevation Church.
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Though often lumped into “celebrity” or “prosperity” categories, he demonstrates emotional balance, inclusion, multiethnic respect, and deep honor toward others.
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Culturally relevant and dynamic, yet not overtly showy or manipulative.
8. Tim Keller (deceased)
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Founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC.
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A brilliant teacher who avoided hype, promoting thoughtful faith rooted in grace and justice.
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Known for gentleness, generosity, and respect across denominations and racial lines.
9. Christine Caine
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Evangelist, author, and anti-trafficking advocate (A21 Campaign).
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Charismatic in presentation but grounded in Scripture, transparency, and cross-cultural respect.
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Appears to model mutual submission and servant-hearted global leadership
Again, the goal is not to idolize any person but to acknowledge public figures who seem to reflect Ephesians 5:21-style mutual respect and servanthood, even while leading large or visible ministries.
more to come..want to describe the way I feel about the names mentioned and why I am not a FAN but respect..due to coming across as “pure hearted, family and relationship mostly oriented, not a scam artist, and racially diverse, large but not ornery, a cult unto them selves (teach the Good New Cross ) but understand WHY the controversy. Too each their own.
(C)2025 Taveau D’Arcy All copyrights reserved under international copyright laws, in conjunction with AI
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