**Does Absolute Power Corrupt Absolutely? **
Frequently yes, but always no. Abraham, Job, and Josiah didn’t think so.
Does absolute power inevitably lead to absolute corruption? The relentless pursuit of power, often viewed as a false god, extends beyond politics and business. For centuries, politicians and businesspeople have been captivated by its allure. Everyone has a natural inclination to seek an advantage and to acquire and exercise power through any means necessary in every aspect of life.
Consider some common statements that reflect this attitude:
– “If you truly loved me, you would…”
– “You’ll obey me because I’m your dad/boss, and I said so!”
– “I’m influential; just look at my large house, exotic car, and expensive clothes.”
– “You don’t have the courage to follow through because you’re too afraid of being alone.”
– “What God really wants you to do is [something not stated in the Bible].”
As parents, spouses, employees, neighbors, or friends, have you ever voiced thoughts like these? If so, you may be unwittingly worshiping at the altar of power.
An angry man keeps his wife and children in a state of fear. A controlling boss micromanages his employees. An insecure friend distorts the truth to manipulate another person’s affections. Stressed-out parents threaten to ground their children if they don’t behave or sit up straight.
Power is alluring. Like all counterfeit gods, it makes promises it can never fulfill. As believers, we must reject the pursuit of power and learn to live harmoniously with others, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ, for the betterment of the Kingdom of God.
So how do Kingdom people—Christian people who have given up power plays and manipulation—treat one another? We follow the golden rule: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12). When we stop worshiping at the altar of power, we can genuinely love one another.
Regarding the quote, “Absolute power corrupts absolutely,” are great men always bad men? Does having absolute power inevitably lead to absolute corruption? No! “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power and that He had come from God and was returning to God” (John 13:3).
Jesus possesses absolute power and authority in Heaven and on Earth. If anyone had the right to dominate others, it was Him. However, the Gospel of John reveals that it was precisely because of His absolute power that Jesus “got up from the meal, took off His outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him” (John 13:4-5).
The most powerful man in history chose to use His unlimited power to serve in the humblest manner. A few hours later, He revealed the ultimate act of service by going to the cross. Our powerful Savior uses His power to serve!
Jesus is the greatest example of what it means to be genuinely great. Great men and women whom God has redeemed can—and frequently are—wonderful people who accomplish amazing things in Jesus’ name and for His glory.
The greatest people use their power to serve God, and those who love Him possess the desire and capacity to do so.
In His Great Service,
Dr. Robert Bryant