Stand for Something
Ready — James Madison Pendleton, a nineteenth-century Baptist pastor, theologian, and educator, found himself in the middle of one of America's greatest moral crises. He lived in Kentucky; a border state divided over slavery. Although he had been raised in a slaveholding culture, his study of the Bible convinced him that slavery was incompatible with the gospel's teaching on the dignity of every person created in the image of God. He spoke and wrote against slavery, helping shape the moral and political conscience of people in the border states during the years leading to and through the Civil War.
Set — Pendleton knew his position came at a price. Speaking against slavery in Kentucky meant criticism, strained friendships, and resistance from people who believed the church should remain silent on controversial issues. Yet Pendleton refused to allow cultural pressure to override his convictions. He believed that Christian leaders must not simply reflect the values of society but must help shape them.
He changed minds because he . . .
Spoke with Courage and Grace: Pendleton addressed controversial issues without abandoning his pastoral spirit.
Accepted the Cost of Leadership: Doing what is right often requires sacrificing comfort and popularity.
Extended his Influence: Pendleton communicated through multiple avenues, such as, preaching, writing, teaching, and mentoring, to shape people’s thinking.
Stood Firm with Humility: Conviction and humility are not enemies; they strengthen one another.
Let Scripture Shape His Convictions: Pendleton built his beliefs on moral truth rather than cultural acceptance.
Grow! — Leadership is easy when everyone agrees with you. It becomes difficult when your convictions place you at odds with friends, colleagues, and even your own community. While leaders face different controversies today, good leadership continues to require courage and compassion. It means speaking the truth in love, even when that truth is unpopular.
Two Questions
What conviction of yours is most difficult to uphold in today's culture?
Where are you tempted to seek approval rather than faithfulness?