Authority Must Be Exercised According to God’s Mandate, Canon Karanja

The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) General Secretary Reverend Canon Peter Karanja has challenged religious leaders to exercise their authority in line with the  mandate given by God.

 Speaking at the Methodist Church in Kenya (MCK), Canon Karanja said that many institutions face challenges when leaders contravene the mandate bestowed on them. He called on them to find a way of bringing God closer to their ministries. “Authority being exercised upon others is joyful, but challenging when exercised on you.  The reason of pain and tears in church today, is how we handle authority. There are very few problems when leadership and authority issues are resolved,”   said Canon Karanja who spoke during the annual Ministers’ Conference for MCK,  that brought together over 280 ministers from across the country.  

He reminded the leaders to be forthright by providing spiritual foresight for their flock. “We are in church to take people somewhere and not round and round in circles. Leaders must also make it easy for people to submit to you,” he said when he spoke about “Submitting to Spiritual Authority.” 

The NCCK General Secretary underscored the importance of church leaders dealing with rebellion within their churches according to biblical teachings. “Submission is taught in church, it does not just come from heaven. We must challenge church leaders to begin dealing with rebellion the way God deals with it,” he said.

Reacting to the sermons, the ministers appreciated Canon Karanja for his robust engagement throughout the session.