The pursuit of leadership in ministry, when driven by godly calling and humility, is a noble and sacred endeavor. However, when such pursuit is fueled by selfish ambition, personal gain, and a thirst for recognition, it becomes dangerous and damaging not only to the individuals involved but to the entire body of Christ.
Today, the church is increasingly plagued by competition, political maneuvering, and divisions all rooted in one thing: self-ambition masked as divine calling. Throughout scripture, God never called a man to exalt himself. Jesus taught, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” – Matthew 20:26. Sadly, this servant heart is missing in many corners of the church today. Instead, we witness leaders striving to climb ecclesiastical ladders, stepping on others, sowing discord, or manipulating systems to secure positions. Ministry is no longer viewed by some as a platform for service but as a stage for prominence. This self-seeking spirit is not new.
Even among Jesus disciples, a dispute arose over who was the greatest (Luke 22:24). Jesus quickly corrected them by pointing to Himself the One who came not to be served but to serve. Yet, the modern church seems to have forgotten this model. The lust for title, position, and influence has birthed rivalries, factions, and even schisms. Churches have split, ministries have collapsed, and spiritual lives have been shipwrecked because leaders prioritized ambition over anointing. The consequences are grave.
First, selfish ambition breeds disunity in the body of Christ. When leaders compete rather than collaborate, the church loses her witness to the world. Paul rebuked the Corinthians for such divisions, asking, Is Christ divided? (1 Corinthians 1:13).
Second, it diminishes spiritual authority. A position acquired by manipulation lacks the blessing and backing of heaven.
Third, it pollutes the purity of ministry. When the motive is power, not purpose, ministry becomes self-serving and void of the Spirits power. James warns clearly: “Where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice”- James 3:16.
The church cannot afford to be governed by those driven by ambition rather than submission to Christ. We must return to the biblical model of leadership; one rooted in servanthood, humility, and calling. Preachers must seek Gods approval above mens applause. Ministry must not be a means to rise but a place to kneel. Until the church purges herself of selfish ambition, she will continue to be weakened from within. Let the words of Jesus echo loudly in every heart: The greatest among you will be your servant.
May every preacher examine their heart, lay down their ambitions at the foot of the cross, and pursue ministry not for power, but for Gods purpose. In doing so, the church will be stronger, purer, and more united, ready to fulfill her calling in the world.
Written by: Pastor Ken Noah Otubuah
AHWC- Upper Room, Ashaiman
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