Rethinking Authority in the Church: From Titles to Trust

In my recent conversation with Dr. Dustin Benac on the Future Christian Podcast, we talked about his book Adaptive Church, which explores collaboration and community in a changing world.

While much of the book was about exploring and examining new models, in my conversation, I was drawn to the question of authority in these new models. Benac noted that rather than relying on traditional models of hierarchical authority, many faith communities are embracing networked leadership—where influence is rooted in connection, collaboration, and shared vision rather than in formal titles.

This shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. On one hand, leaders can no longer assume their authority will be respected just because of a title. But on the other, this new model allows for greater adaptability, deeper engagement, and a more dynamic vision of leadership. In a time of church decline and institutional uncertainty, relational authority provides a way forward—one built on authenticity, humility, and trust.

So, how do we build real authority in today’s church? As Dr. Dustin Benac said, "We must: Show up consistently – Trust is built over time through presence and commitment. Listen before leading – Leaders gain credibility by understanding the needs of their community. Live with integrity – Authority today comes from who you are, not just what title you hold."

Another key distinction I want to highlight—one we briefly touched on—is the difference between supporting the church as a gathered community of Christ followers versus supporting the church as an institution. In other conversations, such as my episode with Ted Smith and Scott Thumma, we talked about how the sociological model of how people will gather is changing as the "voluntary association" as Smith calls it wanes in influence. Even still, I want to be clear that what I support, what I advocate for, is not the voluntary association, but the gathered community of Christ followers

No matter the form, it seems that leadership and authority will be an essential element of the gathered community, even as leaders must handle authority with great care and respect.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Dr. Dustin Benac here: