Positions of Leadership: Some Reflections from Matthew's Gospel

Abstract

In the only gospel in which Peter is promised to be the foundation-stone of the church, few if any leadership positions are presented. They are not denied; rather, Matthew describes a higher priority, using the title “brother” to include disciple and church member without further distinction, expressing the relationship of members with one another as with their master. The Gentiles proffer an example of how not to lead; disciple members, however, are to become like their master. Their task is to make disciples of all nations, the emphasis of this universal commission placing squarely upon each one the responsibility of working towards this end.