A Ministry of the School of Theology and Christian Ministry—Olivet Nazarene University
Children's Ministry
Engaging children's ministry leaders in theological conversation
In her second published article in Epworth Pulpit, Jessica Fleck brings a unique perspective to the well-known verse from Isaiah 11:6, “…and a little child will lead them.”  She proposes God, himself, is a child-like leader.  A must read article.  Either she will change your perspective and broaden your understanding, or you will challenge her thinking.  Either way, an article worthy of your time.
6/01/10

The Egocentric Leader

“The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them” (Isaiah 11:6).  I’ve always thought of this verse as a quaint and colloquial depiction of how peaceful life would be during the end times.  Complete enemies would sleep in the same place and adults and children alike live in such harmony that a little kid could lead everyone on earth.  Additionally, I had always thought that children could take on this leadership role because children trust God more and have better faith.  After all, Jesus says his followers ought to have faith like a little child and Christians are to learn this from them.  Who better to set an example of leadership than a small kid?  Well, have you ever seen a child actually lead?

Author's Profile

Jessica E. Fleck is the children's pastor at Mercer Creek Church in Ellensburg, Washington; she studied children's ministries at Olivet Nazarene University and earned a master's degree from Wheaton College.