"The Peter Principles"

 

“The Peter Principles”

 

In 1969 professor and educator Laurence Peter published The Peter Principle in which he develops his thesis that “In a hierarchy every employee tends to rise to his level of incompetence.” This has become a widely accepted management axiom in business, education and other fields. Examples abound of men and women who performed well in a subordinate position but proved to be a fish out of water when moved up the ladder of responsibility, much to their as well as their organization’s detriment. The problem is that no one knows at what point this might kick in.

From a human standpoint “The Peter Principle” can impact individual believers and eventually a church or other ministry. For a variety of reasons someone may be placed in a leadership position for which he or she is not adequately prepared which can lead to discouragement and reluctance to try again. This points up the need to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) to “…make disciples….” through winning (“…Go….”), building (“…baptizing them….”) and equipping (“…teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”).

In his two letters Peter sets forth principles to produce maturity and preparation for service in the lives of Jesus’ followers. These include but aren’t limited to….

*Desire to grow in our faith (“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.”—1 Peter 2:2, NKJV).

*Growing in our faith (“…{Continue to} grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”—2 Peter 3:18, literal rendering).

*Living godly lives (“You ought to live holy and godly lives….”—2 Peter 3:11).

*God has equipped us to live godly lives (“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness….”—2 Peter 1:3).

*Loving others (“…Continue to show deep love for each other….”—1 Peter 4:8. NLT).

*Serving others (“Serve one another with the particular gifts God has given each of you….”—1 Peter 4:10, Phillips).

*Loving and respecting our wives (“…You husbands must give honor to your wives.”—1 Peter 3:7, NLT).

*Glorifying God (“,,,{So that} the Gentiles…may by your good works…glorify God….”—1 Peter 2:12, NKJV).

Can we do this? Not on our own but “,,,our ability comes from God.” (2 Corinthians 3:5, Phillips). So let’s put these “Peter Principles” to work to honor our Lord in and through our lives.

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

(Why not make your own list of “Peter Principles”? You can read the two letters in 20-30 minutes.)