It is hard to exercise authority in the church (2 Corinthians 11:28) or the home. Pastors, elders and deacons (and parents, who are pastors in their own homes) should be comforted that even the Apostle Paul had to work hard to ensure that he spoke and wrote only with the authority of Christ. Although his right to be the definitive voice on doctrine was challenged by so-called 'super-apostles' (2 Corinthians 11:5), he knew he must not be oppressive or go beyond the limit Christ set for his ministry (Acts 9:15).

Two temptations must be avoided. Firstly, do not compare one leader or parent against another or assume you are better than another. Even though Paul had received Christ's personal commission (1 Timothy 2:7), he did not use that to compare himself with others. In the end, we are all fallible; it is only by God's grace that we can serve Him in leading others (1 Corinthians 15:10).

Secondly, Paul knew that he could only confidently assert Christ's authority in the areas for which it was given. He was the mouthpiece of Jesus regarding the gospel and doctrine for the church – and mainly for the Gentiles. He was not a universal expert and he must not take roles God had not given to him. However, he did have a right to disciple the church in Corinth, because it was through him that they came to faith and he knew them well (he lived there at least a year and a half and cared deeply for them).

In every authority situation, it is essential to know the limits of your authority. Some people fail to live up to the authority they have been given, others exceed their remit. Neither are good or wise. Some people like to be responsible for everything, others shrink from exercising authority. A good question to ask is, 'Am I responsible to act in this situation or with this person?' Or, 'Has the Lord asked me to do this, or am I doing it for my own reasons?' Many problems in the church or at home would be prevented by wisely understanding the answer to those questions.